What's With All the Construction on Winchester?

All along Winchester Boulevard, between Campbell and Budd avenues construction crews seem to have become a part of the landscape. But why?

The Winchester Boulevard Master Plan, which was approved by Campbell City Council in 2009 began Phase 1 this year. Construction along the corridor began in October and will continue through March 2012.

The goal of this plan, according to city documents is to transform this major artery into a "vibrant, mixed-use pedestrian-oriented street" as well as to "enhance the visual and physical connection between the and downtown Campbell."

Currently taking place:

• Installation of a landscape median island on Winchester Boulevard adjacent to the Campbell Community Center.
• Construction of "bulb-outs" that will reduce the pedestrian crossing distance at four intersections along Winchester Boulevard - at the VTA Lightrail entrance, Budd, Kennedy and Rincon avenues.
• Installing decorative street lighting along Winchester Boulevard, between Campbell and Budd avenues.

The funding for this project comes in part from Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority Community Design & Transportation grants, awarded in 2009 for $1.12 million and again in 2010 for $1.5 million.

Phase II of the Winchester Boulevard Master Plan was approved by city council on Nov. 15 and will tentatively begin construction July 2012.