Four Local Transportation Projects Get Funding Nod

By Desiree Parker Tuesday, November 22, 2011

The Hampton Roads Transportation Planning Organization (HRTPO) last week approved funding for four local transportation projects totaling more than $14 million through 2018.

The Transportation Technical Advisory Committee (TTAC) recommends regional projects to receive funding.

The Skiffes Creek Connector project, which was previously approved by the HRPDC, is around the Grove area of the county. The project will help reduce traffic on Route 60 near James River Elementary School by providing a connection to Route 143 and Interstate 64 for trucks going to James City County businesses such as AB InBev Brewery, the Wal-Mart Distribution Center and Busch Gardens.

On top of the $10 million in funding, the Skiffes Creek Connector project is still short $15 million. The county plans to request funds in the future to fill the gap.

A new recommended project on the HRTPO list this year is the first phase of a new Williamsburg Area Transportation Authority administration and operations facility. The TTAC suggested $3.7 million in funding, which will cover all costs for the first phase.

A 1.8 mile stretch of Pocahontas Trail (Route 60) is slated to receive $800,000 in funding for a five-foot sidewalk and a five-foot paved shoulder along with trees, lighting and bus pull outs.

The Croaker Road widening and trail project for the area near the James City County Library will receive $500,000 in 2018 funds to widen a half-mile stretch of road to four lanes and add a multi-use trail.