Skinner Boulevard construction on schedule; lane shift to westbound planned in April

Contractor DeMoya is on schedule constructing the Skinner Boulevard improvements, and city staff told the CRA the project remains on budget and may finish ahead of schedule. "The contractor, Demoya, is right on schedule, and everything's been on budget," Economic Development Director Bob Ironsmith said.

Staff said the eastbound-to-westbound traffic change is expected in mid-April and will close the Douglas northbound connection during certain phases. Businesses on the north side of the project were identified as likely to be affected; city staff are coordinating temporary signage and delivery accommodations.

Why it matters: The lane shifts will change local traffic patterns and may restrict left turns and access to some commercial properties. Staff said they are working with property owners to create temporary U-turn or turnaround options for delivery trucks.

Details and operational measures Staff described efforts to communicate with impacted businesses, new signage coordinated with the Department of Transportation, and site-level work to allow truck turnarounds. Trevor Davis (city staff) has been canvassing businesses and discussing use of a nearby property area to allow semi-trucks to turn. The CRA also noted the project includes performance incentives tied to DOT milestones.

Next steps Staff said they will announce the precise date for the traffic shift when the contractor confirms the schedule; commissioners asked staff to continue outreach to businesses and to confirm routing for deliveries and emergency access during the closures.

Source: Presentation by Economic Development Director Bob Ironsmith and follow-up exchange with Commissioner Walker and staff.