Route 31 Reconstruction for CT Department of Transportation - Coventry, CT

The reconstruction of Route 31 Main Street in Coventry is ConnDOT’s pilot project under the Federal Highway Administration’s Context Sensitive Solutions program, initiated to help state transportation agencies design new or reconstructed roads that are more sensitive to their corridor’s natural and built environments.

The pilot project reconstructs a section of State Route 31 in Coventry Village, a designated historic district, to improve safety. Additional goals include streetscape enhancement, economic development, and the generation of community support.

• Improving Roadway Safety – BSC’s design realigned a substandard horizontal curve and addressed some vertical sight distance issues. A consistent roadway width and restricted access from abutting commercial properties also helped to improve traffic operations. A continuous sidewalk the entire length of the project has been added to create a safer pedestrian environment. The roadway’s reconstruction also provided the opportunity to resolve some longstanding drainage issues as well.
  
• Enhancing Streetscape – The project involved significant streetscape and building façade improvements, being completed both under ConnDOT’s original contract and through a separate agreement with the Town. Detailed signage and architectural standards were developed to respect and enhance the village’s historic and cultural character. Specific streetscape components include ornamental lighting, concrete sidewalks with brick accent strips, textured crosswalks, street trees, ground covers, and street furniture. Three gateway areas were established, featuring a fountain, a water wheel commemorating the village’s Mill Brook, and a statue honoring mill workers.
  
• Generating Community Consensus – BSC overcame the community’s initial reluctance through a multi-faceted public participation program that included the establishment of an advisory committee, as well as open public meetings. Through a series of six meetings, BSC kept the committee informed and engaged in the design process, incorporating their ideas and vision into the final plans. A computer modeling simulation was created to help residents envision and endorse the final design.