Columbia City Council is planning a major investment in pedestrian safety with a $1.2 million sidewalk improvement initiative.
The project will focus on key areas, including Vandiver Drive and Oakland Gravel Road, enhancing accessibility, connectivity, and overall safety for pedestrians.
Vandiver Drive Sidewalk Enhancements
The Vandiver Drive project aims to improve pedestrian access between Oakland Gravel Road and Parker Street.
The total estimated cost is around $682,400, with the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) expected to contribute up to $400,000 through the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP).
This project includes:
- A 5-foot-wide concrete sidewalk
- Reconstruction of driveway approaches
- Upgrades to the signal light at Oakland Gravel Road
- Future connectivity to a planned trail along the COLT railroad
Once completed, the new sidewalk will provide a safer, more accessible route for pedestrians while improving overall infrastructure in the area.
Oakland Gravel Road Sidewalk Improvements
Another major sidewalk improvement is planned for Oakland Gravel Road, covering the stretch from Blue Ridge Road to Smiley Lane.
This project has an estimated cost of approximately $517,600, with MoDOT funding up to $414,000 through TAP funds.
The project will include:
- A 5-foot-wide concrete sidewalk
- A grass parkway along the west side of the road
- Filling in existing sidewalk gaps for seamless pedestrian access
These enhancements will improve pedestrian safety, particularly for those accessing nearby schools, parks, and medical facilities.
Additional Sidewalk and Traffic Improvements
The city has also proposed additional pedestrian and traffic improvement projects, including:
- St. Charles Road Sidewalk: Connecting Clark Lane to Demaret Drive with a total estimated cost of $709,150
- Rollins Road Traffic Calming Measures: Enhancing pedestrian and vehicle safety from Fairview Road to Stadium Boulevard
These projects aim to create a more walkable and accessible Columbia for residents.
| Project | Location | Estimated Cost | MoDOT Contribution | City Contribution |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vandiver Drive Sidewalk | Oakland Gravel Road to Parker Street | $682,400 | Up to $400,000 | Remaining balance |
| Oakland Gravel Road Sidewalk | Blue Ridge Road to Smiley Lane | $517,600 | Up to $414,000 | Remaining balance |
| St. Charles Road Sidewalk | Clark Lane to Demaret Drive | $709,150 | Not specified | Not specified |
| Rollins Road Traffic Calming | Fairview Road to Stadium Boulevard | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified |
Columbia’s investment in sidewalk improvements demonstrates the city’s commitment to pedestrian safety and urban infrastructure.
By closing sidewalk gaps and enhancing accessibility, these projects will provide safer routes for residents, particularly in high-traffic areas.
With funding from MoDOT and the city’s capital improvement sales tax fund, these enhancements will make Columbia a more walkable and connected community.
FAQs
What is the purpose of the sidewalk improvement projects?
These projects aim to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility by constructing new sidewalks and filling in existing gaps.
How are these projects funded?
Funding is provided through a combination of MoDOT’s Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) funds and Columbia’s capital improvement sales tax fund.
When will construction begin?
While specific dates are yet to be confirmed, similar projects like the St. Charles Road sidewalk improvement are expected to begin in summer 2025.
