Council backs design work for Governors Highway roundabout, refers Chapel Road reconstruction for review

Council authorized engineering to proceed with design work for a roundabout and corridor improvements on Governors Highway and voted unanimously to submit a Chapel Road West reconstruction proposal to the Planning & Zoning Commission for an 8-24 report.

Deputy Director of Public Works Kevin Vincennes explained the Governors Highway project would be a full-depth roadway reconstruction from Ellington Road to just past Talbot Lane, include traffic-calming elements (medians, reverse curves) and a roundabout approximately 850 feet east of Talbot Lane. He said early concept drawings once showed an encroachment on a residential yard but designers revised the alignment and moved the roundabout to avoid that property; easements will still be required from two commercial properties.

On Chapel Road West, the council considered alternatives after public feedback and directed staff to submit the reconstruction proposal (pavement and base replacement, new drainage, restored driveways, and sharrow markings rather than an off-road multiuse path) to the Planning & Zoning Commission under CGS §8-24 for review. Town engineers said the corridor might widen roughly two feet per side (from about 20–22 feet up to 26 feet) for a uniform lane width and that preliminary designs and public outreach will follow before any construction or final approvals.

Councilors repeatedly requested early public information meetings so residents can review design options — including a possible chicane or other calming alternatives — and staff agreed to schedule additional outreach prior to returning final plans to the council for approval.