Phase 1 of Orchard Avenue safety and connectivity project grant approved

Mesa County Commissioners have approved the Revitalizing Main Street Grant agreement with the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) to fund Phase 1 of the Orchard Avenue safety and connectivity project.

The grant, totaling $1,080,000.00, will be used to improve safety and connectivity for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians in the Orchard Avenue corridor.

Phase 1 was initiated by Mesa County Public Works, which successfully obtained the Revitalizing Main Street Grant upon application. The grant, administered by CDOT, will be split 80-20 on costs that were estimated at the time of the grant application.

The Orchard Avenue safety and connectivity project aims to add about 3,600 linear feet of 5-foot wide sidewalk along the south side of Orchard Avenue, realign the roadway centerline to offer 11-foot vehicular travel lanes in the east and westbound directions, and install two four-foot bike lanes outside the roadway. Additionally, approximately 7,200 linear feet of curb and gutter will be installed.

The project is part of a larger effort to revitalize Mesa County's main streets, making them safer and more accessible for all modes of transportation. This includes promoting active transportation and providing safe travel options for pedestrians and cyclists.

Phase 1 is expected to begin construction in the near future, with completion anticipated within the next year. The project is a crucial step in improving the safety and connectivity of Mesa County's main streets and will contribute to the overall revitalization of the area.