New signal at College and Research in Carson City to address safety, growth
A new traffic signal about to open Wednesday at the intersection of East College Parkway and Research Way in Carson City will help address a significant safety concern related to that area, said Carson City Transportation Manager Patrick Pittenger.
"The biggest concern being addressed is the safety of vehicles on Research Way turning left on to College Parkway," he said.
The Maverik fuel station and convenience store located at the southwest corner of the intersection has partnered with the city to ensure improved traffic safety as the company is expanding its property to include separate diesel fueling stations for trucks.
Pittenger said traffic in the area will only increase with Maverik's expansion currently under construction.
A controlled intersection at College Pkwy and Research will also help make crossing the street safer for pedestrians, which use the crosswalk there regularly to get from the business park on the north side of College Pkwy to the Maverik convenience store.
Pittenger said the city is taking measures to ensure the close proximity to the signal at College Pkwy and Interstate 580 does not add to traffic congestion in the area.
"The signals will be coordinated to ensure continued traffic flow," he said. "The new conditions will be similar to what is operated on U.S. (Highway) 50 at Lompa Lane near another freeway interchange."
Pittenger said Carson City Public Works designed the signal intersection, while Maverik hired the contractor to perform the construction, which began in October.
Cost of the project will be in the neighborhood of a half-million dollars, he said, although total costs are not yet finalized.
Pittenger said the significance of this project is that it will allow for continued growth along the College Pkwy corridor, while also promoting traffic safety in the area.
"Carson City is looking forward to the new traffic signal at the intersection of College Parkway and Research Way," he said. "The new signal will allow traffic to safety access existing and future development in the area."