February 3, 2025

Chesapeake’s Major Roadwork Upgrades and Solar Initiatives

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News Summary

Chesapeake, Virginia is set to embark on significant infrastructure improvements, including the $10 million replacement of the Elbow Road bridge and upgrades at Great Bridge Boulevard. Additionally, the city is investing in renewable energy with the new 5-megawatt Long Ridge Solar Farm, which promises to reduce power costs for local residents. While residents may face temporary disruptions, these projects aim to enhance the community’s quality of life and pave the way for a greener future.

Chesapeake’s Roadwork Revolution: Major Upgrades on the Horizon

Chesapeake, Virginia, is preparing for a series of ambitious road projects that will reshape the community’s infrastructure over the next few years. Residents can expect a mix of pros and cons as these transformative plans come into play. Earl Sorey, the city’s Director of Public Works, recently outlined key details about upcoming constructions slated to begin in 2025, promising to enhance the quality of life for locals.

$10 Million Bridge Replacement Project to Benefit All

One of the most significant endeavors is the replacement of the Elbow Road bridge, which connects Chesapeake and Virginia Beach near the picturesque Stumpy Lake Reservoir. This project, valued at a robust $10 million, is not a reaction to any structural failing; in fact, the current bridge is still deemed safe. However, a proactive approach is being taken to modernize and fortify this critical thoroughfare. The new bridge will be constructed above the 100-year floodplain, significantly enhancing its resilience against severe weather and ramping up storm-water management capabilities.

Expect some considerable inconvenience as construction is set to cause an 8-10 month total closure of Elbow Road beginning later this year, with the project slated for completion by 2026. While this closure will indeed disrupt daily routines, the “growing pains” that Sorey refers to are anticipated to yield significant long-term benefits for the community.

Addressing Congestion at Great Bridge Boulevard

In tandem with the bridge project, an overhaul at the intersection of Great Bridge Boulevard and Battlefield Boulevard is also on the menu. This intersection, already a vital conduit for approximately 75,000 daily motorists, suffers from frustrating backups during rush hours. The upgrade will add an additional through lane, and with construction costs estimated at just under $2 million, completion is expected by summer 2025.

Planned improvements also include adjustments to the traffic signals, allowing for two lanes to traverse the intersection more efficiently. As congestion continues to plague local drivers, these measures are welcomed by the community, promising smoother commutes and reduced travel times.

Mapping a Greener Future with Solar Energy Projects

However, it’s not all about roadwork in Chesapeake; the city is also making strides towards sustainable energy initiatives. Since 2019, Chesapeake has approved a total of 10 utility solar energy projects encompassing an impressive 2,020 acres. The newly approved 5-megawatt Long Ridge Solar Farm will sit on a 122-acre parcel along Long Ridge Road, utilizing just 41 acres of that land to provide clean energy solutions for local households.

This facility is expected to deliver substantial benefits, particularly for low-to-moderate income residents, providing them with 10% savings on their monthly power bills. Furthermore, the solar project will integrate with the grid through underground power lines, relying on existing Dominion Energy infrastructure. With a decommissioning plan in place that anticipates operation for at least 35 years, this initiative promises not only renewable energy but also lasting value for the community.

Public Sentiment and Future Outlook

Interestingly, while the council passed the solar project with a 7-2 vote, dissenting members raised concerns regarding land use, suggesting that solar farms seem more industrial than agricultural. One council member voiced apprehension about the impact of solar farms on local farmland. On the flip side, local supporters argue that these solar initiatives preserve farmland while granting farmers alternative income sources.

As Chesapeake steers towards a future characterized by infrastructural resilience and renewable energy advancements, residents must balance the temporary disruptions of construction with the long-term enhancements to their community’s lifestyle. These projects promise not only to improve roadways but also to contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.