Prep work is being done for a new signalized intersection where the Keizer Transit Center meets Keizer Station Boulevard. (KEIZERTIMES/Eric A. Howald)
After operating the Keizer Transit Center (KTC) for more than five years with only right-in /right-out access only, the KTC is about to get a new traffic signal to allow for right or left turn access in and out of the property.
The traffic signal was included in the original design, but initial engineer’s estimates placed the cost above the funds Cherriots had to build the transit center.
As a result, the signal was eliminated from the original project, but there was enough left over in the original grant to cover the expense.
Because the signal will also benefit Keizer for development of property to the west of transit center, Cherriots and the city negotiated an agreement for Keizer to pay a matching amount of roughly $315,000 against the grants Cherriots has with the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to fund the project. In addition to the signal, a second, dedicated eastbound turn lane will be added to intersection of Lockhaven Drive Northeast. Keizer will make two separate payments to complete its obligation to the project and the final cost is subject to change depending on the actual cost of work.
In September 2018, an invitation to bid was released for the construction of the signal and the additional road and signal work required because of the traffic flow changes. Brown Construction, Inc. from Eugene was the successful bidder with an cost of $1,578,822. The Cherriots Board of Directors approved the contract with Brown Construction, Inc. on Dec. 13.
The project is slated to be completed and fully functional no later than Aug. 16, but could be finished sooner.