Williamsburg City Council Approves Traffic Signal Improvement Project

Williamsburg City Council has approved a $159,000 project aimed at improving traffic flow and pedestrian conditions along Lafayette Street and Richmond Road. This initiative, which marks a significant enhancement to the city’s infrastructure, is expected to streamline traffic signals at the intersection near Midtown Row, contributing to a more efficient transportation system.

The city will collaborate with a Virginia Beach-based engineering firm to undertake a comprehensive examination of the current traffic signals. Over the next six months to a year, data will be collected to develop a new model that optimizes the timing of signal cycles. The primary goal is to improve the synchronization of traffic lights, allowing for increased green light durations and reducing wait times for drivers.

This traffic signal improvement project is part of a broader effort by Williamsburg officials to enhance urban mobility. Funding for the initiative has been secured through a grant from the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) Smart Scale program, ensuring that the financial burden on local taxpayers remains minimal. City Manager Andrew Trivette described the project as “excellent news” for residents who frequently travel along this corridor.

The discussions surrounding this traffic improvement initiative have been ongoing for at least five years, reflecting the city’s commitment to addressing traffic-related challenges. Council member Stacy Kern-Scheerer expressed optimism about the prospect of driving along Richmond Road without the inconvenience of frequently stopping at traffic signals, highlighting the positive impact this project aims to provide.

In addition to the traffic signal project, the City Council has also previously considered the construction of a roundabout at the intersection that includes Monticello Avenue. A pre-design phase for this roundabout was approved in March; however, no additional updates have been provided since then. The proposed roundabout is intended to convert the traditional intersection into a multi-lane structure designed for improved safety and traffic efficiency. However, construction for this project is not expected to begin until 2028.

Mayor Doug Pons has indicated that the city is currently waiting for VDOT to supply engineering designs related to the roundabout project. It is important to note that the discussion of the roundabout was not included in the City Council’s agenda during the Thursday meeting when the traffic signal improvement project was authorized.

This latest initiative underscores Williamsburg’s relentless pursuit of urban development that not only caters to vehicular traffic but also enhances pedestrian safety. By optimizing traffic signals and considering infrastructural modifications like roundabouts, the city is taking meaningful steps toward creating a more connected and efficient transportation network.

City officials are hopeful that the implemented improvements will lead to improved traffic conditions across Williamsburg, providing residents and visitors alike with a smoother urban travel experience.