RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The Central Virginia Transportation Authority (CVTA) has awarded almost $148 million for infrastructure improvements in Richmond. The city of Richmond announced that the CVTA awarded almost $148 million for infrastructure improvements in Richmond over the next six years, inc luding roads, bridges, transit, and pedestrian walkways. The funding will go towards the projects listed below: Arthur Ashe Boulevard Bridge Replacement The new funding for this project provides an additional funding of $13 million to replace the bridge between Scott's Addition and the Diamond District over the ACCA Yard for $48 million. The existing bridge is over 75 years old, and the State of Good Repair program listed the bridge as in "Poor" condition. The proposed project is the design and construction of a replacement bridge that will be tall and long enough to clear the span of two existing CSX railway lines, along with two proposed tracks. The proposed bridge also features room for community members to walk and bike across. Shockoe Valley Streets Improvements The new funding for this project provides an additional funding of $14 million for the construction of a $54 million multimodal improvement in the Shockoe Valley area. Converting Oliver Hill Way and 18th Street from one-way streets to two-way streets. Roundabouts at the intersections of: Oliver Hill Way and Venable Street 18th Street and Venable Street Mosby Street and Venable Street Mosby Street, East Leigh Street and O Street Providing turn lanes on Broad Street at the Oliver Hill Way intersection. Creating and improving safe access for pedestrians who walk and bike throughout the project. Enhancements for streetscapes, such as lighting and landscaping. Belt Boulevard Transit Streetscapes The new funding for this project provides an additional funding of $2 million for the construction of a $33 million multimodal improvement on Belt Boulevard. The project will create two new bus rapid transit (BRT) lanes along E. Belt Boulevard between Midlothian Turnpike and Hull Street Road. The proposed BRT lanes will become a part of the Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) Pulse North-South BRT route, a 24-mile system running from Magnolia Ridge Drive on US Route 1 through downtown Richmond and ending at Walmart Way on US Route 60. Increasing the streetscape along the Belt Boulevard along the BRT route by raising the median, eliminating redundant entrances and creating shared paths and buffers to improve biker and walker safety. The installation of a Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon (PHB) with ADA accessible ramps and bike, pedestrians and transit access improvements at eight transit stops, according to the release. Additionally, the city of Richmond will be supporting the following projects, per the release: $15 million for the Pulse BRT Western Expansion. $15 million for the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority Layover Facility. $10 million for the GRTC Transit Hub. $6 million for a Longdale Road Phase along the Fall Line Trail. “Together, with our regional partners, we are delivering projects that will serve Richmonders for generations," said Mayor Danny Avula. "These improvements support stronger communities, better access to jobs and services, and a multimodal transportation system that reflects our shared priorities. I deeply appreciate the regional partnership that got us all to this point, and am so excited for the progress ahead.” “These investments from CVTA demonstrate the power of regional collaboration to deliver transformative transportation improvements right here in Richmond and the region,” said Andy Boenau, the director of transportation. “By prioritizing projects that enhance safe multimodal access and local economic vitality, we're creating a city for Richmond residents, visitors and businesses to thrive.” The CVTA funds are generated from local sales and use taxes and wholesale fuel taxes. It allows jurisdictions, including Richmond, to address what is needed to improve the area across the nine-jurisdiction region. "The city of Richmond remains committed to Vision Zero and Complete Streets to provide safe access to affordable housing, jobs. and services," the release stated. " Working closely with CVTA, PlanRVA, GRTC and its member partners is critical to the successful implementation of these important priorities. " For more information, visit the city of Richmond's website here. ...read more read less