Q: How will the project improve traffic flow and pedestrian access in the project area?
A: Once the grade separation is complete, traffic will no longer stop at the railroad crossing, permitting unrestricted traffic flow on the roadway.  Pedestrians and bicyclists can use the new over-crossing adjacent to the railroad bridge to cross Jeffrey more safely.  Also, Jeffrey will be widened to six lanes (three lanes in each direction), between Walnut and Irvine Center Drive, to match the existing number of lanes north and south of this road segment.  This will further improve traffic flow.

Q: How will the project enhance the overall aesthetics of the project area?
A: The project will include new landscaping and irrigation similar to that at the Culver grade separation.

Q: What impacts are expected during construction and how will they be mitigated?
A: Traffic on Jeffrey is detoured to a temporary road to the east of the existing road.  This allows the grade separation to be constructed with as little impact as possible on neighboring communities and the traveling public.  Existing driveways and access points on Jeffrey are maintained during construction.

Q: How is the project being funded?
A: The construction cost of the project is estimated to be $42 million dollars.  Funding for the project includes a combination of local, state, and federal monies.

Q: What are the next steps in moving the project forward?
A: Work on the pedestrian over-crossing and the pump station is substantially complete.  Utility lines affected by the project continue to be relocated.  In June 2009, construction of the railroad bridge began and, when complete in the spring of 2010, train traffic will be relocated to it. When the new Jeffrey roadway is opened, the temporary four-lane detour road will be removed. The remaining project work, expected to be complete in December 2010, includes construction of maintenance roads, bike paths, and landscaping and irrigation.

Q: Where can I get additional information or status updates of the project?
A: If you have questions about the project, please call Anne Logie at (949) 724-7543.  Project update information is available on the City of Irvine’s website at www.cityofirvine.org.  Just type “Jeffrey” in the search feature.