VDOT outlines spring projects and tree‑trimming plan; board raises local road and flooding concerns
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Summary
Lee McKnight of VDOT’s Saluda residency updated the board on near‑term projects including a Route 17 pipe‑lining project and slope repairs, a large tree‑trimming program across the county, a proposed river gauge/flashinglight pilot for a tidal flooding location, and ongoing maintenance priorities; supervisors raised specific locality concerns and requests for the six‑year plan.
The Essex County Board of Supervisors received an update from Lee McKnight, Saluda Residency Administrator for the Virginia Department of Transportation, on Feb. 10 covering scheduled maintenance and upcoming projects in the county.
McKnight said crews will address a pipe‑lining project on southbound Route 17 at Corette in late spring and identified a slope repair on Route 17 southbound in the Dunsville area that requires right‑of‑entry coordination. He emphasized VDOT’s substantial tree‑trimming schedule in Essex County this year—describing it as the largest residency program in the area—and listed several small‑to‑medium pipe replacements and other spring/summer work to be undertaken by state crews.
On a recurring flooding location at Mount Landing Creek, VDOT said a short‑term river‑gauge and flashing‑light warning system is being studied to give motorists real‑time warnings when water reaches the pavement; a consultant is preparing longer‑term construction recommendations that would require funding. McKnight said paving season typically begins in spring and contractors set schedules, but the county’s referenced paving segments are on the schedule.
Supervisors raised specific concerns including a request for a turning lane into Glenfield (to be prioritized in the county’s six‑year secondary plan after cost estimates and right‑of‑way checks), a persistent pothole that requires excavation and repair, and recurring roadway drainage that causes washouts at curves. VDOT asked for precise location reports for problem shoulders or ditches and said state forces could perform some turning‑lane work if prioritized and funded through the six‑year plan.
Board members thanked VDOT for winter response work and asked staff and VDOT to follow up on identified trouble spots and the six‑year plan schedule. No formal board action was taken at the work session.