}

Columbus Consolidated Government

Council Meeting

8/26/2014


To
Mayor and Council
Subject
GDOT Contract for Buena Vista Road Spiderweb
Initiator
Planning Department
Recommendation
Authorize the City Manager to enter into an agreement with the Georgia \n \n Department of Transportation (GDOT) to redevelop and redesign the Buena Vista \n \n Road Spiderweb area.
Approval
Pending
Background
The area known as the "Spiderweb" consists of several roadways converging in a

compact area along Buena Vista Road. Traffic at times can be heavy, causing

major delays during peak hour travel times. The problem is further compounded

by the fact that an active railroad line dissects the area, causing additional

problems during the mornings and afternoon travel periods. This has been an on

going problem for several decades, causing increased concerns in the times of

need for emergency vehicles and the like.
Analysis
Over time this area has been studied numerous times, but the results were the

same. The solutions proposed were cost prohibitive, with funding for such

severely limited. This project was identified in the 2012 Transportation

Investment Act (TIA) referendum and approved by the voters. With the funded

now promised under this program, this project is ready to go forward to help

rectify this needs in this area. The proposal calls for Buena Vista Road to go

under the existing rail line, mitigating the need and expense for additional

right of way and utility relocation, as proposed under previous studies.
Financial Considerations
Entering into this agreement will assure the funding for this project through

the use of TIA funds in the amount of $40 million dollars. No local match will

be required for this project. This is a reimbursable project back to the city.
Projected Annual Fiscal Impact Statement
General maintenance of the roadway when completed will be the responsibility of

both the city and GDOT. The roadway is not projected for completion until

2019.
Legal Considerations
The City Attorney has reviewed the agreement and has approved it as to form.
Recommendations/ Actions
Authorize the City Manager to enter into an agreement with the Georgia

Department of Transportation (GDOT) to redevelop and redesign the Buena Vista

Road Spiderweb area.