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Elementary‑building project moves forward as MDOT traffic study nears completion
Summary
The board heard an update on the elementary building project: MDOT preliminary traffic findings are expected in weeks, counts will determine whether turn lanes are required, and the district would construct improvements to MDOT specifications with MDOT maintaining the right of way thereafter.
The Odessa R‑VII Board received an update on the elementary building project and an MDOT traffic study that will inform whether roadway turn lanes or other intersection work are required before the new building opens.
Dr. F. told the board that MDOT expects to return preliminary traffic information within two to three weeks; that information will include counts and recommendations such as adding a westbound right‑turn lane or an eastbound left‑turn lane depending on volumes. If MDOT requires a change to the traffic configuration, staff said the district would be responsible for constructing the work to MDOT specifications and MDOT would assume long‑term maintenance once the work is accepted. That distinction — who constructs versus who maintains the improvement — was discussed by board members and staff.
"I think that would be at our expense, but then they would maintain it," a facilities staff member said when the board asked whether the district would pay for construction.
Board members asked about schedule implications for opening the building; staff said MDOT may request additional counts or studies and that preliminary findings should be available by the next board meeting.
The board also reviewed community outreach dates tied to the project — a series of presentations at McQuary Elementary and community meetings through March — and staff asked the board to encourage community participation so planners could explain financing and design choices.
What’s next: Staff will provide the MDOT preliminary traffic response to the board when it is received and may return with recommended mitigation, cost estimates and schedule adjustments if MDOT requires further study or modifications.
