GLOUCESTER COUNTY, Va. — Some much-needed road improvements are coming to Gloucester County, at an intersection that's seen its share of accidents.
According to the DMV's Traffic Records Electronic Data System, there have been more than 40 car accidents at or around Route 17 and Guinea Road since 2015.
There's a project in the works to make the intersection safer.
VDOT said they're funding the proposed project with federal Highway Safety Improvement Program funds, a core Federal-aid program that helps to significantly reduce traffic deaths and injuries on all public roads.
Jerry Darden shops at one of the two shopping plazas near the intersection. He said VDOT's made some improvements at this intersection through the years.
“They've done some work, adding turning lanes and lights by McDonald's are new,” Darden said. “I don't think it needs anymore right now but it wouldn't hurt.”
According to VDOT, several commercial entrances along Route 17 northbound would become right-turn-in only, directing emerging traffic to use the main York River Crossing shopping center exit at the traffic signal.
Along Route 17 southbound, the northernmost entrance to the Hayes Plaza shopping center would close, directing traffic to use the main signalized entrance and exit.
On Guinea Road, the existing concrete median would be slightly shifted to allow for the construction of a dedicated left-turn lane and dedicated through-lane for traffic approaching Route 17. The project would retain a dedicated right turn lane.
VDOT is giving the public the opportunity to check out the proposed designs Monday, February 24, 5-7 p.m. at Abingdon Elementary School, 7087 Powhatan Drive, Hayes, VA 23082.