About the Proposed Revisions to Austin Pike Project
The following list of Frequently Asked Questions about changes to the Austin Pike project at I-75 published in 2008.
1. What is the purpose and need for the Austin Pike reconstruction project?
The project will increase roadway capacity and improve safety by upgrading the existing two‐lane section of Austin Pike to a four‐lane divided, curb and gutter roadway with raised median from SR‐741 through Washington Church Road, and will adjoin improvements to be constructed by ODOT as part of the I‐75/Austin Interchange project. However, Austin Pike will no longer be relocated northward or lowered at the end of the Dayton‐Wright Brothers Airport runway to increase clearances for aviation.
2. How will airport operations change following the proposed reconstruction of Austin Pike?
No changes to air traffic volume or characteristics are expected as a result of the project as currently proposed.
3. Will landscaping, tree plantings, or decorative street lighting be included in the initial construction?
4. Will any intersections be signalized?
5. When will Austin Pike be widened east of the proposed project?
As currently programmed, extension of the four‐lane divided section with raised median to Yankee Street will begin construction in 2013. However, complete funding for this project has not yet been identified.
6. What property will be acquired to construct the improvement? When will I know if my property will be affected?
West of Washington Church Road, very little permanent private property will be needed, since the proposed alignment has been shifted to the south near the existing commercial and residential developments at each end. Most of the property needed to accommodate the new alignment west of Washington Church Road is already owned by the City of Dayton Department of Aviation or by Miami Township. Once final construction limits have been determined, individual property owners will be contacted by representatives of Montgomery County to discuss any required private property acquisitions.
7. How does this project relate to ODOT’s construction of the new interchange on I‐75 at Austin Pike?
Montgomery County’s Austin Pike reconstruction project will adjoin the proposed ODOT improvements just east of SR‐741. ODOT plans to construct a new interchange on I‐75 and a new “Continuous Flow Intersection” at the Austin Pike/ SR‐741 intersection during years 2009 and 2010.
8. What is a Continuous Flow Intersection?
A Continuous Flow Intersection, or CFI, is a new at‐grade intersection configuration that can handle greater traffic volumes than conventional signalized intersections by separating left‐turn movements from the through traffic lanes. Once the left turn and through traffic is separated, left turning and through movements in opposing directions can occur at the same time.
9. What is the expected construction cost for the Austin Pike relocation? How will the project be funded?
Based on the current design, construction and construction inspection costs are expected to total approximately $7,000,000 in year 2010. Precise funding levels for each participating agency have yet to be determined, but funding for the Austin Pike improvement is expected from the Montgomery County Engineer, Miami Township, the Federal Highway Administration (through MVRPC/ODOT), and the Ohio Public Works Commission. In 2008, the Federal Aviation Administration decided not to participate financially in the relocation of Austin Pike to improve clearances at the Dayton‐Wright Brothers Airport. The Montgomery County Engineer will fund all environmental studies, engineering design, and private right of way acquisitions using county Auto Title and Gas tax revenues prior to construction in 2010.
10. What is the anticipated construction schedule?
Construction of Montgomery County’s Austin Pike improvement between SR‐741 and Washington Church Road is expected to begin in 2010. The project could be completed by the end of the same year if construction starts in the spring; otherwise, the project would be completed by mid‐2011, if construction starts later in year 2010.