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Two Construction Projects Along Orange Avenue in Roanoke: Details & Updates

2024-12-04

Roanoke, Virginia is a city with ongoing construction activities that residents and commuters need to be aware of. One of the significant projects involves widening the northbound Interstate 581 off-ramp and extending the turn lane onto Williamson Road. This construction includes the installation of a traffic signal that utilizes a sensor to prevent back-ups. Although there may be some night-time lane closures on US-460 eastbound, the impact is expected to be minimal, and the construction is anticipated to be completed by next November.

Adding a Much-Needed Bus Stop Shelter

Crews are actively working on building a much-needed shelter for a bus stop located across from Sheetz near the King Street intersection. Roanoke City Council approved this project during the summer after expressing concerns about safety in that busy area. At that time, it was humorously dubbed “Roanoke’s sorriest bus stop.”

Widening the Interstate 581 Off-Ramp

The widening of the northbound Interstate 581 off-ramp is a crucial aspect of this construction project. By extending the turn lane onto Williamson Road, it aims to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion. The installation of the traffic signal with a sensor is a smart addition as it helps prevent backups and ensures a smoother flow of vehicles. This improvement will not only benefit commuters but also enhance the overall transportation system in the area. 1: The widening of the off-ramp is a significant step towards meeting the growing traffic demands in the region. It provides more space for vehicles to merge onto Williamson Road, reducing the chances of accidents and delays. The sensor-based traffic signal is a modern technology that responds quickly to changes in traffic volume, ensuring that the traffic moves smoothly even during peak hours. 2: This construction project is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy as well. With improved traffic flow, businesses along Orange Avenue are likely to see an increase in customer traffic. It will also make it easier for residents and visitors to access various destinations in the city, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Building the Bus Stop Shelter

The construction of the bus stop shelter is a much-needed addition to the area. It provides much-needed protection for commuters during inclement weather, making their waiting experience more comfortable. The approval of this project by Roanoke City Council shows their commitment to improving public transportation and ensuring the safety of passengers. 1: The location of the bus stop shelter across from Sheetz near the King Street intersection is strategically chosen. It provides easy access for commuters who are traveling to and from different parts of the city. The shelter will be equipped with basic amenities such as seating and lighting, making it a more pleasant waiting area. 2: The addition of the bus stop shelter is part of the city's efforts to enhance the public transportation infrastructure. It will encourage more people to use public transportation, reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality. This is a step in the right direction towards creating a more sustainable and livable city.

Othello is set to witness the construction of two new roundabouts in 2025. These projects are expected to have a significant impact on the local traffic and infrastructure. One roundabout will be located on State Route 17, affecting travelers who might otherwise bypass the city. Another roundabout is planned at the intersection of SR 17 and Cunningham Road - Main Street, which was originally scheduled for this year but has been pushed back to 2025.

Key Features and Benefits

The roundabout at the intersection of SR 17 and Cunningham Road will be a compact design with lower curbs and without the mound of rocks in the center. This design is suitable for heavy traffic and large trucks that frequently pass through the area. It will have a fully mountable truck apron to ensure smooth passage for these vehicles.The roundabout on State Route 26 and South First Avenue will cost approximately $3.8 million and is expected to take about 55 working days or three months to complete. During construction, drivers should be prepared for delays as one-lane traffic with temporary signals will be in place. Traffic on city and county roads will be detoured to ensure the safety of construction workers and motorists.The SR 17 roundabout project has a total cost of about $7.1 million and is projected to take about 59 working days. Crews will start with pavement repair using flaggers and then control traffic with a temporary signal at the intersection. At the end of the construction, the roundabout will be open but not striped, and the striping will be done at night.

Impact on Traffic

Once the roundabouts are completed, drivers will be able to cross SR 26 from South First Avenue to State Route 24 (South Broadway Avenue in Othello) without the need for a detour via Columbia Street. Currently, this intersection requires a detour, but with the new roundabout, left turns from SR 26 to SR 24 will be allowed.For the SR 17 roundabout, it will improve traffic flow and safety at the intersection. Travelers will no longer have to navigate through complex traffic patterns and will have a more efficient way to move through the area.

Funding and Scheduling

The choice of improvements at South First Avenue was influenced by funding. This particular roundabout is a compact design and does not require right of way to build, which made it eligible for funding.Department of Transportation officials are working hard to schedule the projects to minimize the overlap between them. They have included early incentives for the contractor to complete the work as quickly as possible and avoid any delays. However, the construction dates are still to be determined, and it is up in the air at the moment.In conclusion, these new roundabouts in Othello are an important step in improving the local traffic and infrastructure. While the timelines may be uncertain, the projects are expected to bring significant benefits to the community once completed.

Residents of Montclair are about to have a significant opportunity to have their say in the development of their forthcoming senior center, Lifelong Montclair. This center is currently under construction and is set to become a vital hub for the elderly community. The process involves two focus group sessions, one on Thursday, Dec. 5, at 12:30 p.m. and the other on Thursday, Dec. 12, at 6:30 p.m., both taking place at the Montclair municipal building on Claremont Avenue. It's important to note that registration is a must for those interested in attending. Anyone can register here to secure their spot. As Ann Lippel, the president of the Montclair Modern Aging Collective, explains, "Our aim is to reach out to the community and gather input on the anticipated programming and services. Our focus is not on physical amenities but rather on understanding the concerns of the people we will be serving." Lippel further emphasizes that a centralized hub could play a crucial role in coordinating expanded programs like health screenings and social work.

Earlier This Year's Approval and Center Plans

Earlier this year, the previous Township Council gave the green light to Lifelong Montclair's lease in the former United Way building at 60 South Fullerton Ave. This building, under the management of the Placek Family Foundation, rents out office space to local nonprofit groups. The plans for the center are truly comprehensive. It will feature a multi-use open space that can be used for a variety of classes and events. There will also be a computer lab and offices dedicated to Lifelong Montclair as well as the township senior services team. Interestingly, the building already has an auditorium that will be available for senior programming. This means that residents will have a wide range of facilities at their disposal.

Continuing Senior Services

Existing senior services will continue to operate smoothly at the Edgemont Park boathouse and the Wally Choice Community Center. This ensures that seniors have access to the services they need even as the new senior center takes shape. It's a testament to the community's commitment to providing comprehensive support for its elderly population. These existing services will complement the offerings of the new Lifelong Montclair center, creating a more holistic approach to senior care.

The Importance of Community Input

The opportunity for residents to offer their input is of great significance. It allows them to have a direct impact on the services and programs that will be available at Lifelong Montclair. By sharing their concerns and ideas, residents can help shape a center that truly meets their needs. This collaborative approach ensures that the senior center becomes a place that is not only functional but also meaningful to the community. It shows that the community is actively involved in the development of a facility that will have a lasting impact on the lives of its elderly residents.