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Community Corner

Cost Increase Approved for Right Lane Improvements

The Town Council unanimously approved a change order in the amount of $11,197, which will go towards design and engineering costs for the Edwards Ferry at Route 15 Bypass.

The Town Council approved a resolution Tuesday night in regards to right turn lane improvements at Edwards Ferry Road and the Route 15 bypass.

An unforeseen total of $11,197 was still needed for design and engineering, which increased the modified design contract as allowed by the Virginia Public Procurement Act and the CIP.

The design contract between the town and Rinker Design Associates, P.C. was for $75.4 million. Partial funding for the project has been received from the Governor’s Congestion Relief Fund.

The project includes construction of improvements to the Edwards Ferry Road intersection with the Route 15 Bypass to help mitigate traffic congestion. Improvements will consist of developing dual right turn lanes for vehicles turning from eastbound Edwards Ferry Road onto southbound Route 15. 

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During the public hearing, Councilman Tom Dunn said he would support the resolution although he was “never really thrilled” for the project.

“I don’t see this as a project that’s going to help pedestrian crossing,” Dunn said, adding that there is a large amount of people who cross the road every day while cars rarely stop before making the right hand turn.

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“My concern is this is where most of the pedestrians are crossing and it’s going to put them in harms way," Dunn said. "I really wish some of these funds would go towards their safety.”

Councilman Marty Martinez said that although there isn’t a crosswalk located on the street, there should be.

“What we should be doing is finding a way to make that happen,” Martinez said. He asked Town Manager John Wells if it would be possible to have a pedestrian lane or signal put in.

“There are ways to make it safer,” Wells said and future discussions on the matter will be planned. 

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