By Polly Lynn
posted
Aug 30, 2012
KILLINGTON-On Friday, August 24, the Town of Killington sent a
proposal to VTrans for a $663,300 Bicycle and Pedestrian Grant. If
accepted, this grant would cover Phase 1A of the Killington Gateway
Project, which includes traffic calming measures to improve safety
for all users; pedestrian sidewalks and crosswalks to improve
safety and ensure ease of walkable access to all businesses;
enhanced streetscaping, landscaping and public amenities; and
additional gateway amenities to convey a sense of arrival along the
Route 4 and VT 100 crossroads.
The Town has agreed to provide 10% of the project funding; or
$73,700, for a total cost of $737,000 for Phase 1A.
The Town expects to hear from VTrans regarding approval by
October, reports Town Manager Seth Webb.
Killington's 2010 Town Plan recommends supporting the objective
to improve pedestrian accessibility and traffic safety as does the
Town's Economic Development and Tourism Strategic Plan. Both have
supported steps in this direction.
In 2011, the Town received a Transportation Enhancement Grant to
fund a streetscape study and hired RSG & LandWorks team to
identify and prioritize improvements in this area. To support the
research and planning effort, the town held a series of public
meetings to gather local input.
After gathering the data, the RSG & LandWorks team prepared
a report of their recommendations and on June 26 they presented
"Killington's Community Crossroads: US 4 and VT 100; Streetscape,
Bicycle, and Pedestrian Study" to the Killington Selectboard.
After the presentation, the Killington Selectboard voted
unanimously to support the concept, incorporate the meeting
feedback, and proceed with the study's recommendations.
The proposed streetscape enhancement plan will be implemented in
phases that are expected to take place over the next 5+
years.
Phase 1A is concentrated on enhancing the sidewalk and parking
areas for the west side of Route 4. The primary facilities this
grant would support are a sidewalk, curbed islands, pedestrian
lighting, signs and striping.
"This project will provide a critical link in the central
activity center of the Town between businesses, civic services,
tourist information, and outdoor recreation and benefit the
thousands of residents and travelers that utilize the area on a
daily basis," the Town states in it's description of the project
for the grant.
In addition to the 10% match for the initial funding, the Town
of Killington would be responsible for and is committed to fund the
maintenance, which will include sidewalk maintenance (plowing,
sanding, etc), landscaping, and electrical (lighting) upkeep.
Tagged:
VTrans, Town of Killington
