CHESTERFIELD OBSERVER, JIM MCCONNELL

The U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation from Rep. Abigail Spanberger last Thursday that would provide $1 million for drainage improvements along Otterdale Road in Chesterfield County.

The federal funding, which is part of a fiscal year 2022 appropriations package, is targeted for new road infrastructure at the Swift Creek crossing, located north of the intersection of Otterdale and Genito roads.

That’s just one of several areas along Otterdale Road that are prone to flooding during significant rainfall events, stranding many western Chesterfield residents in their homes and preventing first responders from gaining access to their neighborhoods.

“Investments in our physical infrastructure are investments in the long-term safety and economic growth of our communities. The drainage improvements made possible through the one-million dollars allocated in this project will keep local residents safe on the roads and sustain this infrastructure for years to come,” Spanberger said in a statement.

The Chesterfield Board of Supervisors already has approved local funds to replace drainage culverts at the crossings of Otterdale Branch and Horsepen and Blackman creeks.

“We appreciate the House Appropriations Committee’s recognition and support of the Otterdale Road Drainage Improvement Project,” said Matoaca District Supervisor Kevin Carroll. “With more than 2,200 vehicles a day traveling along Otterdale Road, there is a significant need to improve the drainage issues at the creek crossings during heavy rainstorms.”

The House appropriations package now goes to the U.S. Senate for further consideration.