Durham is advancing the long-anticipated Woodcroft Parkway extension, a project aimed at alleviating traffic congestion and enhancing connectivity between Hope Valley Road (NC 751) and Garrett Road, directly in front of CE Jordan High School. This infrastructure upgrade is expected to provide improved multimodal access, offering safer and more efficient routes for drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit users.
Project Overview
The extension will address several longstanding transportation challenges, including:
•Reducing congestion and delays at the busy intersection of Hope Valley Road and Garrett Road.
•Improving accessibility to Jordan High School for students, staff, and surrounding communities.
•Enhancing pedestrian and cyclist safety, promoting alternative transportation options.
The project, currently in the design phase, includes environmental studies and community consultations to ensure minimal impact on local neighborhoods and the environment.
Key Project Milestones
The City of Durham Department of Transportation has outlined a detailed timeline for the project’s progress:
•Public Meeting #1: May 20 – July 5, 2020 (Virtual)
• Nearly 3,700 views and 368 completed surveys provided community feedback on initial design concepts.
•Public Meeting #2: October 3 – November 3, 2023 (In-Person)
• Residents reviewed the proposed design and provided additional input.
•Public Meeting #3: Spring 2024 (TBD)
• The upcoming meeting will present refined design updates based on community feedback.
•Right-of-Access Acquisition: Summer 2024
• Coordination with property owners to secure necessary land for the project.
•Construction Start: Winter 2025
• Projected to begin following final design approvals and funding confirmation.
•Completion: TBD
Community Engagement and Feedback
Public participation has played a crucial role in shaping the project. At the second public meeting, attendees were invited to comment on the proposed design, and their input will influence the final layout. The City of Durham has committed to maintaining open lines of communication with residents throughout the process.
A notable update includes concerns regarding a proposed 24-foot sidewalk near Garrett Road Park, which could potentially impact park access. The city has submitted a letter to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to ensure that necessary measures are taken to minimize disruptions.
Community members can continue to submit their concerns and suggestions via online surveys or by attending future meetings.
How to Stay Updated
Residents interested in tracking the project’s progress can:
•Subscribe to project updates through the city’s official website.
•Follow the City of Durham on social media:
•Facebook, Twitter, Instagram for real-time announcements.
•Contact project manager Eric Vitale at eric.vitale@durhamnc.gov for inquiries.
Looking Ahead
As Durham continues to experience growth, projects like the Woodcroft Parkway extension are essential for maintaining efficient transportation infrastructure. Stay tuned to Bull City Citizen for ongoing coverage and detailed insights into the development of this significant community project.
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