Also, I would’ve liked to have seen more information on how the construction of these new elevated lanes will affect local roads and business. The area underneath I-10 where Perkins goes beneath it are a treasure trove of local businesses. I was disappointed to learn that many of those businesses were going to be acquired by the state. While eminent domain is a justifiable method for public needs, I would’ve like to have seen just how “unfeasible” it would’ve been to construct these new elevated lanes while keeping these businesses intact. Was that a thought at all? Many of the documents provided on the website showed how aesthetically pleasing these new elevated sections could be to those underneath it. However, is funding already in place for the aesthetic ideas planned? Or once all of these new elevated spans are constructed, residents are forced to look at plain concrete and steel (similar to the way the I-10 overpass over Perkins Road looks now). I’m sure this project will go over budget at some point, and I’m sure the first thing to go would be the aesthetics. Thanks so much for listening to a local citizen’s concerns.
Response:
As of this time, only two businesses in this area may require relocation, another may have a construction impact to a covered patio that could be restored post-construction. DOTD is currently consulting with these businesses and property owners and all those in the Perkins Merchants district to develop solutions for access and parking during construction. Relative to aesthetics, concepts for under highway lighting, pier aesthetics, and other enhancements, such as new parking areas, are all under development at this time and will be available for review during the public hearing.
Comment:
Also, I would’ve liked to have seen more information on how the construction of these new elevated lanes will affect local roads and business. The area underneath I-10 where Perkins goes beneath it are a treasure trove of local businesses. I was disappointed to learn that many of those businesses were going to be acquired by the state. While eminent domain is a justifiable method for public needs, I would’ve like to have seen just how “unfeasible” it would’ve been to construct these new elevated lanes while keeping these businesses intact. Was that a thought at all? Many of the documents provided on the website showed how aesthetically pleasing these new elevated sections could be to those underneath it. However, is funding already in place for the aesthetic ideas planned? Or once all of these new elevated spans are constructed, residents are forced to look at plain concrete and steel (similar to the way the I-10 overpass over Perkins Road looks now). I’m sure this project will go over budget at some point, and I’m sure the first thing to go would be the aesthetics. Thanks so much for listening to a local citizen’s concerns.
Response:
As of this time, only two businesses in this area may require relocation, another may have a construction impact to a covered patio that could be restored post-construction. DOTD is currently consulting with these businesses and property owners and all those in the Perkins Merchants district to develop solutions for access and parking during construction. Relative to aesthetics, concepts for under highway lighting, pier aesthetics, and other enhancements, such as new parking areas, are all under development at this time and will be available for review during the public hearing.