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Sunset Road phase 3 right-of-way estimates climb; staff flags impact-fee trade-offs
Summary
Staff told commissioners the phase-3 Sunset Road right-of-way acquisition will likely cost about $2.1–2.25 million—well above the $750,000 budgeted—raising questions about using impact fees and competing priorities for other road projects.
Town consultants and staff told the Board of Commissioners on Jan. 27 that right-of-way acquisition costs for Sunset Road phase 3 are substantially higher than previously budgeted and will require a budget amendment and further discussion of funding priorities.
Victor (town staff) and Lee Shewann from Reagan Smith, the project designer, reported that appraisals and estimates put right-of-way acquisition closer to the $2.0–2.25 million range, including contingencies; the town had budgeted $750,000 for right-of-way in the current fiscal year. The board was briefed that the town’s impact-fee fund holds roughly $3.6 million in unobligated, non‑litigation‑exposed funds that could cover acquisitions, but those dollars are also needed for other capital projects, including the Williams Road/York Road intersection match and right-of-way for Rocky Fork Road improvements.
Lee said the design is complete through right-of-way and consultants have begun appraisal and negotiation preparations. Staff and consultants said they had tried to minimize design impacts to reduce acquisition costs but that market appreciation and site-specific factors had driven the higher estimate. Victor and Chuck (staff/attorney) warned commissioners that delaying right-of-way purchases generally increases costs over time.
Commissioners asked for broader context and asked staff to include Sunset Road and competing projects in the strategic planning session so the board can weigh priorities and funding trade-offs. Commissioner Carpenter and Vice Mayor Salomeida recommended reviewing the major thoroughfare plan and project data before deciding whether to obligate impact fees. Staff indicated they will bring a draft budget amendment and additional information to the board in the coming weeks for a formal vote.
No formal authorization to purchase right-of-way or to amend the budget was taken at the meeting; staff said they would return with a proposed budget amendment for first reading at an upcoming meeting and deliver fuller cost and schedule information at strategic planning.
