Board signals support for $10M federal request for I‑95 Exit 110 improvements, pledges up to $2.5M local match

Caroline County staff told the board that the county submitted an application to Senator Mark Warner’s office asking for $10 million in congressionally directed funding for phased improvements at the Interstate 95 Exit 110 interchange. The request is intended to fund a first-phase project estimated at roughly $14 million (three new signals, ramp reconfiguration and related safety work). (Mr. Hughes)

VDOT staff and the county noted federal reviewers often ask for evidence of a local contribution; board members discussed how a local match would be structured and where the funds would come from if an award is made. County staff indicated a 20% local match is standard for this type of request, and the board approved drafting and sending a letter committing up to $2.5 million ("not to exceed" phrasing) as the local match if the federal funds are awarded. The motion passed by voice vote. (Mr. Hughes)

Supervisors discussed timing and procurement mechanics, noting that Smart Scale or other state and federal sources could be layered across phases; members said county borrowing or allocating fund-balance reserves could provide the match when required. The board authorized the letter to strengthen the county’s federal request and to demonstrate local support for the interchange improvements. (board action)

Next steps: County staff will submit the letter of commitment and continue coordination with VDOT and Senator Warner’s office; any final commitments and the source of local match would be formalized only if and when the federal award is received.