South Connector Project gradually moves forward

Following the procurement of three federal earmarks by former US Congressman Rob, totaling just over 7 million dollars, and a grant from the Ohio Department of Transportation Small Cities Program totaling 4.3 million dollars; the City continues to monitor the development of the planned “Waverly South Connector Project”. This future planned roadway will serve as the new St. Rt. 220 on the northwest side of Waverly and will provide for the future light commercial and residential development of over 300 acres of land, presently located within Waverly’s corporation limits. The Ohio Department of Transportation, District 9 is overseeing the design and construction of the project and has retained the private engineering firm of DLZ Inc., Columbus, Oh to prepare final design drawings. As of January of 2009, ODOT District 9 officials reported the project’s design plans to be 50% complete.  So far, just over 500,000 dollars have been expended on the design phase process.  ODOT District 9 reported that the most significant design issues they have faced so far have been minimizing the amount of earthwork on the project, minimizing impacts to properties and utilities, and managing the storm water. ODOT and the consultant have worked hard on these issues to hopefully be able to meet the project budget.  A public hearing was held in Waverly, at the Pike County YMCA on August 9, 2007 to collect comments from the surrounding citizens located at or near the project area.  Presently, ODOT officials anticipate the project beginning the right of way acquisition phase in September of this year.

Most of the area pictured above (between Estep Lane and St. Mary’s Lane) will receive gradual development following the construction of the Waverly South Connector Project.