Unraveling the Story of Morgantown's Roundabout
History and Background
This roundabout project has a long history that dates back nearly 20 years. In 2005, the Morgantown Monongalia Metropolitan Planning Organization first identified the need for changes at this intersection. Since then, it has been a topic of continuous discussion and planning. Mountaineer Contractors was initially awarded a contract in 2019 with a bid of $1,784,957.41, but the project was cancelled in 2022 due to complications with right-of-way acquisitions. The Morgantown Utility Board completed utility upgrades in 2020, preparing the ground for the upcoming construction.The state's assessment revealed that parts of the intersection graded out at service level F, indicating significant failure, especially in southbound movements from Collins Ferry onto University. The difficulty in accurately understanding the full extent of the intersection's failure was also noted due to traffic diversion through Pocahontas Avenue and the Huntington Bank parking lot.
The DOH's Solution
In 2017, the Department of Highways put forward its oblong roundabout recommendation, which was supported by the MPO, Morgantown City Council, and the Monongalia County Board of Education. However, it faced immediate pushback from some Suncrest residents and business owners who were concerned about the impact on traffic in the surrounding neighborhood and the function of neighborhood routes like Baldwin Street.Even the town of Star City, whose municipal boundary lies just down University Avenue from the intersection, came out against the plan. Former Star City Mayor Herman Reid was vehemently opposed, while current Mayor Sharon Doyle took a more cautious stance, stating that the intersection impacts traffic flow through Star City and the upcoming project is being closely watched.
Current Status and Future
Mountaineer Contractors was finally awarded a new contract worth $2,091,104 on September 25. Construction is set to begin in March 2024 and is expected to be completed in August 2026. This roundabout is expected to significantly improve the service level of the intersection and address the long-standing issues.As the project moves forward, it will bring a new era of transportation in Morgantown, improving traffic flow and safety at this crucial intersection. The community will be closely watching the progress and hoping for a successful outcome.
Uniting Dane and Sauk Counties through a Recreational Bridge
Project Background and Significance
This project has been a long-awaited endeavor, taking 20 years to come to fruition. The recreational bridge, spanning 500 ft, will transform an existing railroad track into a trail, providing a seamless link from the Wisconsin River to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources' parking lot on STH 78. It is not just a physical connection but a symbol of community collaboration and the pursuit of a better quality of life.This initiative not only encourages outdoor activities but also has a profound impact on the local economies. It showcases the diverse areas outside the county's urban center, fostering a sense of unity and understanding among residents. Mom and pop businesses are expected to benefit from the increased foot traffic, while people gain a deeper appreciation for the lives of others.Cost and Funding
The construction of this new trail comes with a price tag of roughly $12 million. Remarkably, $11 million of this amount has been secured through federal funds and outside grants. This demonstrates the commitment and support from various sources in making this project a reality. The investment is not only in infrastructure but in the future of the communities involved.Connectivity and Trails
The planning team behind the bridge envisions that the construction will last at least through 2026. Once completed, the new trail will serve as a vital link, connecting the Great Sauk-Walking Iron Trail to several more routes along the Wisconsin River. This opens up a world of possibilities for bikers and trail enthusiasts, allowing them to explore not only within Dane County and Devil's Lake but also extend their adventures to the world-renowned Elroy-Sparta State Trail. It will become a hub for outdoor recreation and a source of pride for the region.People are eagerly looking forward to being able to enjoy all these trails have to offer in the coming years. The collective desire to enhance the recreational offerings and promote connectivity is driving this project forward, and it is set to leave a lasting mark on the Dane-Sauk County area.Navigating Southbound I-5 Construction: Delays and Detours Ahead
Construction Details and Timeline
L.A. Metro and Caltrans District 7 have planned all-lanes closures of the southbound I-5 lanes next week at night. The $679 million project, which began in fall 2021 and is projected to end in 2026, will install three new permanent overhead signs along the southbound I-5 lanes from Calgrove Boulevard to the SR-14 interchange. This is part of the I-5 North County Enhancements Projects.
The specific closure schedule is as follows: Monday, December 9th, from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m.; Tuesday, December 10th, from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m.; Wednesday, December 11th, from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m.; and Thursday, December 12th, from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. These closures will have a significant impact on traffic during these hours.
Primary and Local Access Detours
The primary detour for motorists traveling southbound on I-5 is to exit at Newhall Ranch Road and continue east on Newhall Ranch Road/Golden Valley Road to the southbound SR-14 Interchange. This detour provides an alternative route for those affected by the closures.
A local access detour is available for motorists to exit at Calgrove Boulevard, continue south on The Old Road, south on San Fernando Road and Sepulveda Boulevard, and then proceed to the southbound I-5 on-ramp. This detour is designed to accommodate local traffic while the main lanes are closed.
Weather and Construction Impact
It's important to note that these closure dates can be subject to change depending on weather conditions and the construction process. Weather can often delay construction activities, and the construction team will make adjustments as needed to ensure the safety of workers and motorists.
The I-5 North County Enhancements Projects are crucial for the future of the Santa Clarita Valley. By increasing safety and improving operations along the freeway, these enhancements will benefit not only motorists but also the local community.