MAIN GATE PROJECT FAQ
Q- Why didn’t we build another exit near Shoosmith or go with the roundabout idea?
A- We explored various options, but the most cost-effective solution was to use the funds allocated to mill and overlay of Lake of the Woods Way to address the primary safety concern. The traffic study indicated we could only accommodate ten vehicles before backups occur. Other proposals exceeded a million dollars, while our plan effectively doubles stacking capacity to 20 cars at a fraction of the cost.
Q- Is there going to be an additional Member Lane added?
A- No, there will be a relocated Member Lane. The Member Lane noted in the Main Gate rendering is not an additional member lane it is the current member lane relocated. We will refer to it as the “relocated member lane” in future publications to avoid confusion.
Q- Will the second visitor lane be used for members during non-peak hours?
A- Unfortunately, the second visitor lane will not be used for members during non-peak hours.
Q- The exit lane on the 4th of July was helpful; will it continue?
A- The Main Gate expansion will relieve holiday traffic, making the use of exit lanes for entrance unnecessary.
Q- Why does the member lane require crossing another lane of traffic?
A- This was discussed in working group meetings. To increase stacking capacity without signals, we added a spacer lane. The secondary guard station will remain unmanned unless during peak traffic, when a guard will control signals. Members will still merge left across the spacer lane for additional stacking when needed.
Q- Why are we doing this?
A- The project will relieve traffic congestion by giving us more stacking capacity by adding a second visitor lane and increasing the rate visitors can be cleared through the security checkpoint by staffing a second access control point when necessary. This will give us the ability to have two Access Control Officers working in tandem to handle increased visitor flows during peak traffic times.
Q- What problems will the project solve?
• Traffic Congestion: The second visitor lane will reduce bottlenecks and improve flow and prevent traffic from backing up into Route 3 intersection.
• Capacity Management: It will effectively handle peak visitor volumes.
Q- How long will it take?
A- The estimated date of completion is March 2025
Q- How much is this costing us?
A- Estimated $641,100
Q- Where is the funding coming from?
A- A combination of funds accumulated over several years from the Repair & Replacement Reserve and the New Asset Improvement Reserve
Q- Who is the project manager / point of contact?
A- Mike Armstead
Phone Number: (540)859-0669
Email Address: [email protected]
Q- How can members get more information?
A- The Capital Project's Main Gate Project page