Public Works reports Countess completion steps, Buckner bid award and right-of-way work for Port Royal realignment

At the May 19 Transportation Advisory Committee meeting, Public Works Director Tyler Scroggins and staff provided several project updates: the Countess Lane/Commonwealth Drive temporary project is nearing final sign and curb adjustments; the Buckner South segment contract has been awarded; and the city is working on right-of-way acquisitions for the Buckner-Port Royal realignment.

Scroggins said crews have backfilled most curbs on Countess Lane and expect to remove temporary caution signage within about a week, weather permitting. He reported ongoing coordination with schools on Autumn (school-area) projects and that the city is scheduling meetings to negotiate project elements with the school district.

The city awarded the Buckner South segment contract to Mastech Civil; staff held the pre-construction meeting and planned a public meeting in June at City Hall from 6 to 7 p.m. (exact date to be published by city communications). Scroggins asked TAC members to attend the public meeting if they wish. He said the contractor will not necessarily start significant work on day one and that standard sequencing and permitting timelines apply.

On the Buckner-Port Royal realignment, staff said right-of-way acquisition is in progress. Of seven necessary parcels, two closings are complete; three parcels are under negotiation and one parcel requires an appraisal delayed by a concurrent rezoning request. Staff reported they had contacted local businesses such as Daylight Sushi as a courtesy about the alignment and potential removal of an existing traffic signal.

Next steps: Public Works will publish the public meeting notice for Buckner South, continue right-of-way negotiations for Port Royal realignment, and proceed with coordination on Autumn-area projects when school and contractor scheduling permits.