The Route 642 Reconstruction project on Old Cape Charles Road (Route 642) is one of VDOTs high profile projects, one that is getting much attention all across the state. 642 is considered “a rural major collector roadway”, with a current statistics noting an average daily traffic (ADT) of 1,150 vehicles. Of those 1150, 4 percent of are trucks, mostly Bayshore transports that are moving product from the plant.
Aerial View of 642 project
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While safety improvements and enhanced access to the Cape Charles Harbor are clearly benefits, this upgrade will also provide Bayshore with the ability to manage larger products. Due to the current limitations with the existing roadway (mainly having to make that turn at the wastewater plant), Bayshore is also limited in the size of the structures it can transport by truck.
The new roadway will consist of two 12’ lanes and 8’ width shoulders with 4’ being paved, which will accommodate bicycles and pedestrians. The cost of the project is $10.5 million.
Cross Section View of VDOT 642
A Much Safer Road
A major benefit of the new construction will be the addition of 4′ shoulders, which will provide a much needed buffer for pedestrians and cyclists. Despite the attractive ‘rural character’ of the current roadway, walking or biking is a risky endeavor, especially during peak traffic hours.
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