WRA plans for Congress–Lawrence intersection under DOH review; utility poles may delay buildout

A staff presenter told the committee that WRA (via Jason Balber) submitted the Congress and Lawrence intersection plans to District 5 on June 30 and that DOH review comments are pending. The presenter said DOH feedback and utility pole relocation considerations remain potential schedule risks.

The presenter noted that if utility poles must be moved, that work could add years to the project timeline; however, once DOH provides comments the project should proceed through design and permitting steps. Committee members asked that staff keep communication channels open with local schools and transportation partners to coordinate interim mitigations such as school-zone signage and temporary traffic treatments.

Staff indicated the project is still on track for a later-season construction window if DOH reviews proceed without major changes. The committee did not vote; staff will report back on DOH comments and any design adjustments.