Mesa County to Transform Orchard Avenue with New Accessibility Features

Mesa County has secured $21.26 million in funding to enhance safety and accessibility along Orchard Avenue, significantly improving the lives of its residents. This investment marks a pivotal moment for the local community, reflecting a broader commitment to equitable infrastructure.

Federal Support Boosts Local Projects

In a move celebrated by U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet, Mesa County is set to benefit from over $111 million in federal funding allocated to 11 projects across Colorado. Orchard Avenue, one of these crucial projects, stands out for its focus on accessibility and safety.

The funds were granted through the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program, aimed at modernizing transport and roadways while prioritizing inclusivity.

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Addressing ADA Compliance on Orchard Avenue

The project’s primary goal is to upgrade Orchard Avenue from 29 1/2 Road to Warrior Way to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. This stretch will soon become a model of accessibility, ensuring that all community members, regardless of ability, can navigate the area safely.

Commissioner Cody Davis emphasized the dire need for these improvements: “Right now, it’s definitely not ADA accessible or compliant. This is going to make this travelable for anybody in a wheelchair, anybody on a bike, anybody walking, anybody with disabilities.”

Community Voices: Advocating for Change

D.J. Dickey, a Low Vision Support Specialist at the Center for Independence, highlighted the importance of such upgrades. “I walk enough of this town on my own and Orchard Ave is one of the areas I do walk and I find that it’s not very accessible with the current sidewalk system,” he said, underlining the necessity of this project for those with disabilities.

Jennifer Shook, also with the Center for Independence, expressed her enthusiasm for the inclusive changes. “When you provide for the person with the most needs, you’re going to provide for everybody,” she explained, pointing out the broader benefits of creating accessible infrastructure.

Project Timeline and Impact

With the new funding, the Orchard Avenue project has been fast-tracked. Commissioner Davis mentioned that planning is expected to conclude within the year, with construction anticipated to wrap up in four years.

“This is an unprecedented investment in road infrastructure from the federal government in just kind of a small community like ours,” Davis noted, highlighting the significance of this funding in accelerating the project’s timeline.

The community’s anticipation is palpable, with residents looking forward to a more accessible, safer Orchard Avenue. This development is not just about infrastructure; it’s about setting a standard for other municipalities to follow, fostering inclusivity and safety across the board.

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