I’ll reiterate my plea for a generationally-shaping bridge rather than merely a bridge to move cars and trucks. “Plant trees the shade of which you’ll never enjoy.”
Building a bridge that connects 250 to 240 without providing protected bike lanes (paint is neither protection nor infrastructure) and functional sidewalks will be a failure to seize the opportunity.
Imagine, if you will, if the Eastern Connector bridge became a sign of Crozet’s future. Protected bike lanes for the entirety of Eastern Avenue, grade-separated sidewalks, a thoughtful way to show that Crozet is looking to the future, building things for our kids’ kids rather than for ourselves.
If you’re not going to do it right the first time, don’t do it.
From Albemarle County’s press release:
ALBEMARLE COUNTY, VA – Albemarle County has released a Draft Request for Proposal (RFP) for public comments or questions. A Final RFP will be issued to seek qualified firms to provide professional engineering services for the design and construction of the Eastern Avenue Extension in Crozet. This project will extend Eastern Avenue from Westhall Drive to Cory Farm Road and ultimately U.S. Route 250 (Rockfish Gap Turnpike) and includes a future bridge crossing over Lickinghole Creek.
Eastern Avenue Extension is a long-planned improvement that supports the County’s goal of a connected transportation network in the Crozet area. Once completed, it will offer drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians an additional north-south travel option, easing congestion along Crozet Avenue and improving access for residents, businesses, and public safety vehicles.
“This project is a key part of the County’s vision for transportation in Crozet,” said Jeff Dumars, Director of Facilities and Environmental Services. “We’re excited to move into the design phase and begin laying the groundwork for infrastructure that will serve the community for decades to come.”
The final project will be delivered through a public-private partnership under Virginia’s Public-Private Transportation Act (PPTA). By aligning public and private investments, the County can reduce overall costs, accelerate delivery, and more efficiently complete a critical segment of the Crozet transportation network. The goal of the PPTA guidelines is to specify a process that is consistent, transparent, and stable, and encourages and supports a climate for private sector innovation and investment to address the specific transportation needs of the Commonwealth and localities.
The selected firm will prepare design and construction documents, coordinate necessary environmental and geotechnical studies, and assist with community engagement efforts.
Interested firms can view and respond to the RFP here. To learn more about Eastern Avenue Extension, visit the project webpage.
