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Committee reviews multiple ODOT‑funded transportation projects, urges follow‑up before final approvals
Summary
Athens transportation committee reviewed a slate of projects including the SR 682 roundabout, ADA curb ramps ($1.88 million authorized), East State Street signal upgrades ($649,658 total) and a city paving list; committee members stressed maintenance‑of‑traffic provisions and said accompanying ordinances will be presented to council next week.
The Athens transportation committee on May 12 discussed multiple capital projects funded in part by ODOT and other sources, addressing scope, traffic maintenance plans and funding breakdowns ahead of next week’s ordinances to formalize Local Public Agency (LPA) agreements.
Chair Member Spielnis and city staff walked through projects that included the State Route 682 roundabout project (Project 357), Stimson Avenue corridor work, ADA curb ramp replacements (Project 366) and East State Street signal improvements. Staff said each ODOT‑paired project will require a separate ordinance and an LPA that specifies the city’s share and the state’s funding.
ADA curb ramp work drew particular attention. Committee materials list a service/safety director authorization to expend up to $1,882,858 for curb ramp construction citywide. Member comments praised accelerated sidewalk and curb improvements and asked for updates on the number of corners completed; staff said the program is citywide and that a substantial portion has been completed but did not provide a percentage figure at the meeting.
East State Street signal upgrades were described as intended to coordinate traffic and reduce delay. Staff said the total authorization would be $649,658, split roughly $429,658 from an ODOT small cities fund and $220,000 from the city street fund. Members and residents said coordinated signals could reduce idling and emissions and improve access for the Far East Side neighborhood.
On the SR 682 roundabout, staff emphasized “maintenance of traffic” provisions included in the contracts to preserve at least an open lane for property access during construction. Audience members and councilors sought assurances that contractors would keep at least one lane open to maintain resident and business access.
Street paving priorities were also reviewed; the proposed list included portions of Columbus Road, Schaefer Mill Street, Reardon Terrace, Miller, Armory and Lloyd, with potential additions depending on bid results.
No final council votes occurred in committee; staff said ordinances that authorize LPA agreements and formalize city cost shares will be drafted for council action next week.
