Massive projects take time not only to build but also to design. Sometimes patience is the only remedy.
most of it is already done, and the remaining portion is all residential? – John Disser
A. John, I can understand your frustration with how long some projects take, but you must understand that is how major projects work today.
Many projects take years to plan and design before construction ever begins.
One of the biggest reasons it has taken so long is any project that includes federal money requires more engineering and study, according to Shan Gunawardena, city traffic engineer. For example, the engineering contract with GAI Consultants for the Dupont project was increased by $165,480 this week to add a previously not required noise analysis, among other things.
The reason to take these additional steps is because the federal government picks up 80 percent of the tab, which is a lot of money in this case, as the entire project is estimated to cost $12.2 million.
Fortunately, I can provide you an update on how the project is progressing. Gunawardena said design of the project is 30 percent complete with the project expected to be bid in March 2014. Even after design work is done, Gunawardena said there will be significant land to acquire, with an early budget of $1 million for right-of-way acquisition.
For those unfamiliar with the project, it will expand Dupont Road from two lanes to five lanes between Lima and Coldwater roads, which includes a center turn lane.
Dupont east of Coldwater is already five lanes to Tonkel Road.
The project will also include a grade-separated crossing for a trail near Salomon Farm Park. The trail will go underneath the road, requiring Dupont to be raised somewhat in this area.
Jefferson plan advances
The plan to reduce a downtown portion of Jefferson Boulevard from four lanes to three is progressing.
The Fort Wayne Redevelopment Commission on Monday approved a $75,000 engineering contract with three firms – Design Collaborative, Land Plan and ERI – to shrink the section between Ewing and Calhoun streets.
The construction will be split into two projects – Hagerman Construction will do the part directly in front of The Harrison, which is currently reduced to two lanes.
The city hopes to bid the section from Webster Street to Calhoun in August. The actual work should be completed by the end of the year.
Radio Sage
The audio question this week comes from Allan Penar, who asks about roundabouts on Union Chapel Road. The segment originally aired Friday on WOWO and can be heard online at www.journalgazette.net/roadsage.
