The Albemarle County government has announced the highly anticipated start of the Crozet Square and Oak Street Improvement Project, scheduled to begin on January 6, 2025. This project aims to enhance infrastructure and accessibility in the area, with a focus on stormwater management, pedestrian safety, and traffic flow improvements. Despite the construction phases, all local businesses will remain open and accessible throughout the year-long development process.

The renovation will cover two main areas: The Square and Oak Street. Upgrades along The Square will include new sidewalks, perpendicular parking, and modifications to the Crozet Avenue intersection. Oak Street will see enhancements such as a new sidewalk on the west side and additional parking spaces on the east. Construction will be carried out in five stages to minimize disruption, with intermittent lane closures and detours in place.

Enhancing Accessibility and Pedestrian Safety

The project's primary goal is to improve accessibility and pedestrian safety. Key features include new sidewalks, ADA-compliant facilities, and better drainage systems. These changes will ensure that residents and visitors can move around more comfortably and safely. Additionally, the installation of marked parking areas and updated signage will make navigating the area easier for everyone.

The Square will undergo significant transformations over 670 feet, introducing new sidewalks near existing businesses and perpendicular parking on both sides of the road. The intersection of The Square and Crozet Avenue will be modified to a right-turn-only configuration, enhancing traffic flow and reducing congestion. Southbound vehicles on Crozet Avenue will access The Square via Library Avenue and Oak Street. These changes aim to create a more efficient and pedestrian-friendly environment, ensuring smoother traffic patterns and improved safety for all users.

Minimizing Disruption During Construction

To ensure minimal disruption to local businesses and residents, the project has been carefully planned in five distinct stages. Each phase will have specific traffic adjustments to maintain access to businesses and private properties. Despite the ongoing work, all businesses will remain open and accessible throughout the construction period.

Stage 1, starting in January 2025, will focus on improvements along Oak Street, with traffic being rerouted through The Square, Library Avenue, and alley access. Stage 2 in March will involve work on The Square from Oak Street to the Alley, diverting traffic to Library Avenue, Oak Street, and the Alley. Stage 3 in May will concentrate on The Square from Crozet Avenue to the Alley, using Library Avenue and Oak Street for detours. Night work in June (Stage 4) will construct sidewalks in front of businesses on The Square. Finally, Stage 5 in August will complete the paving, signing, and striping. Throughout the project, flagging will be in place, and drivers are advised to follow detour signs and exercise caution in work zones.