Branch Highways, Inc. has yet again completed another major Project for the US Route 58 Corridor! The 8.2 mile segment in Carroll, Floyd and Patrick Counties, Phase III Laurel Fork, was substantially completed on 7/14/2016 and final completion was on 9/13/2016. This was Branch’s fifth construction season on the project, with recent and final work including the surface paving on the highway and side roads, finishing up driveways and final striping, as well as cleaning storm water basins and installing guard rail. Branch is continuing the relationship with VDOT to secure further work on the Route 58 Corridor.
The Laurel Fork segment is the third phase of the Route 58 Corridor Project built under a Comprehensive Agreement between VDOT and Branch to widen the 36 miles from Stuart to Hillsville. The Project began in December 2011 beginning just east of Big Reed Island Creek and tying into the previously completed 4 lane section in Meadows of Dan (Phase I). This corridor improvement program is seen as vital to provide viable commercial access, expand development opportunities, and create a seamless east-west freeway for the traveling public. Current economic growth through this rural area provides evidence that this project has been very successful externally and has been one of Branch’s largest, most successful projects throughout company history.
To keep the public well informed throughout the project lifecycle, Branch held over ten informational meetings. While several of these meetings were focused directly on the project in regards to current conditions and future traffic impacts, others were held to promote the Route 58 Corridor for economic and safety motives.
In addition to working closely with the public, Branch helped to develop five interns over the course of this project. This provided them with the opportunity to understand the structure for a major contractor on a large, complex, and important project. From those that experienced this, Branch gained a full time employee, as well as a part time employee that is currently finishing out their senior year at Virginia Tech. These opportunities are crucial for not only our company, but the overall construction industry, design and other engineering career paths.
A special thanks goes out to all those related to this project for their hard work and dedication. While each member had their specific duties, this Project Team worked closely with one another to ensure fluidity throughout the job. Final substantial completion ended with only two items on the punch list and Branch has continued to foster excellent client/sub relationships.
Visit the Project Website: www.usroute58.com
