OREGON 62 PROJECT TEAM WORKS TO COMPLETE FEDERAL DOCUMENT
ODOT is focused on completing a federally-required Final Environmental Impact Statement that is necessary before construction can begin on the first two phases of the Oregon 62: I-5 to Dutton Road project. The $120 million project is a multimodal transportation solution designed to reduce congestion, increase capacity and improve safety along Crater Lake Highway. “The corridor is a critical business connection, locally and regionally, for freight, tourism and commuters,” said ODOT Project Leader Dick Leever. “The Crater Lake Highway currently exceeds capacity standards. “Future growth is expected to significantly increase traffic volumes.” The project’s first phases are slated for construction in 2015. The 4.5-mile expressway would start at a small directional interchange near Whittle Road, follow the east side of the Medford Airport, pass over Vilas Road, and connect back to the Crater Lake Highway near Corey Road. One of the biggest features of the Oregon 62: I-5 to Dutton Road project will be the construction of a fourlane, access-controlled expressway. The expressway would provide faster travel and improved safety within and throughout the region. The addition of sidewalks and transit-
related enhancements are planned on the existing Oregon 62 corridor. The Citizen’s Advisory Committee and Project Development Team shepherded the Oregon 62: I-5 to Dutton Road project since its inception in 2004. ODOT, the Federal Highway Administration, stakeholders, regulatory agencies, and the public worked together to develop the build alternatives. The PDT included representatives from ODOT, the City of Medford, Jackson County, the Rogue Valley Metropolitan Planning Organization, the Jackson County/Medford Chamber of Commerce, the freight and trucking industry, FHWA, the CAC, and two citizens-at-large. The team is responsible for management decisions, technical quality and assisting in the successful development of the project. The CAC comprised representatives of neighborhoods, businesses, and community interests. These members represent disciplines such as bicyclists, pedestrians, transit, agriculture, environmental issues and other interests. ODOT also conducted other outreach efforts as part of the process, including public workshops. The CAC and PDT reviewed public comments submitted during a 45-day public comment period and project open house in 2012. Following the
odotmovingahead.com
April 5, 2013
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