Chesterfield using some of $450 million in bonds on transportation projects

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — The Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors says long-standing traffic and congestion issues will be its primary focus after securing nearly $450 million in bonds for various projects.

On Wednesday, May 15, two resolutions to this effect were passed with no contest, alongside several other items in a consent block. Up to $90 million in general obligation bonds will now be available to the county for capital projects.

The second approved resolution will allow up to $350 million in transportation revenue bonds to be used for the financing of various infrastructure improvements, as outlined in the recently-approved budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

Matt Harris, Deputy County Administrator for Finance and Administration, said roads like Powhite Parkway and Centerpointe Parkway need the most attention.

“It’s something that we hear from the citizens all the time, in terms of investing in the road network being a high priority for them,” Harris said.

The county will also be making improvements to Route 288 and Hull Street Road. A portion of the money will also pay for other needed projects, like pedestrian safety along Hull Street Road and constructing a roundabout at the intersection of Bailey Bridge Road and Woodpecker Road. Harris said these projects have been years in the making.

“Improved connectivity and some of these key corridors, population centers,” Harris said. “I think it’s going to feel dramatically different, you know, three to five years from now, once all these facilities are in place. I think the residents will appreciate that.”

The plan does not introduce new taxes for residents, because it is already supported by existing funds.

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