Two-way traffic is flowing again along University Drive after the completion of a rehabilitation project that widened the road to accommodate a dedicated shuttle bus lane and implemented measures to enhance pedestrian safety.
The $5-million project yielded improvements at crosswalks to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements and a widened roadway that will ease traffic congestion on the former two-lane street.
The main objective of the rehabilitation project was to replace asphalt on the venerable street. KPPF Engineers concluded that the asphalt had reached the end of its service life. Also, standing water caused by the lack of appropriate drainage systems had exacerbated road damage in the last decade.
The project, which was initiated on June 1, 2022, and overseen by Facilities Planning & Management, consisted of replacing the base layer of the road and worn-out asphalt. In some sections of the street, up to 22 inches of base and asphalt was replaced.
In addition to new asphalt, the project included:
- A new retaining wall across from the College of Science.
- A redesigned ADA ramp near Alamitos Residence Hall.
- New ADA parking spaces along University Drive.
- A new drainage system that funnels water directly to storm drains.
- Landscape improvements including protection of longstanding oak tree across from the Don B. Huntley College of Agriculture.
The project also helps achieve goals that include a transit hub as outlined in a proposed Campus Master Plan.