Construction to begin along Forest Hill Avenue, Semmes Avenue for enhanced safety project

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Construction will begin soon for a traffic calming and enhanced pedestrian safety project in the area of Forest Hill Avenue and Semmes Avenue in Richmond’s Southside.

Weather permitting, the City of Richmond Department of Public Works is scheduled to begin construction on a project along Forest Hill Avenue from West 34th Street to Semmes Avenue, as well as the intersection of Forest Hill Avenue and Semmes Avenue, next month.

According to the department, the project is multi-modal and will include the following phases:

Phase I

• Removing the traffic signal at the intersection of Forest Hill Avenue, Semmes Avenue and Dundee Avenue
  • To control traffic, a temporary signal will be installed at the intersection of West 34th Street and Semmes Avenue
• Installing sidewalks
• Converting the westbound lane of Forest Hill Avenue between West 34th Street and Semmes Avenue into 23 back-in parking spaces and utilizing the remaining lane as a one-way eastbound lane
• Adding crosswalks and curb ramps

Phase II

• Installing a new permanent traffic signal at the intersection of West 34th Street and Semmes Avenue
• Adding a pedestrian crossing with a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB) on Forest Hill Avenue, west of Carson Street
  • PHBs are pedestrian activated traffic signals that remain dark until activated, typically by a push button. They help increase driver attention to pedestrians crossing the roadway and improve safety.

During construction, residents and businesses may experience minor disruptions, but every effort will be made to minimize inconveniences, the department said in a press release.

The contractor will provide continued access for patrons and deliveries to businesses.

“Please be patient and give construction workers extra space and slow down when you see orange cones and work zones,” the department said.

According to the department, construction is expected to be completed by July 2025.

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