Studies

Central Roanoke Mobility Study

Examining how drivers get around in downtown Roanoke

Project at a Glance

Est Completion Date
Completed

Cost
Approximately $300,000

District
Salem

Contact

What's Being Done

The City of Roanoke and the Virginia Department of Transportation have begun work on a transportation study to determine how to make the I-581/Route 220 Corridor in Roanoke a safer and more efficient road to travel. The Central Roanoke Mobility Study will address pressing immediate needs as well as mid-term (year 2015) and long-term (year 2025) traffic demand and improvement needs along the corridor. The study area extends from north of the Orange Avenue interchange to south of the Wonju Street interchange. Major arterial roads connecting to and affected by I-581/Route 220 also will be examined.

"We plan to study the current traffic situation and identify any deficiencies," said Michael Gray, VDOT project manager. "Then, study the anticipated changes in land use as the area grows and recommend roadway and interchange improvements needed to handle the anticipated traffic growth. We will estimate costs and help prioritize the needs in order of importance."

Residents who live in nearby neighborhoods and businesses that depend on I-581/Route 220 corridor for access will be asked for their input on key problem areas and other traffic related issues as the study progresses. At the citizen meetings, project planners will explain in detail the study area, the schedule and budget for the process and the findings.

Features

» Study Area Map

Members of the Central Roanoke Mobility Study Team will work to develop solutions that are compatible with neighborhood goals, environmentally sound and economically feasible.

In addition to the I-581/Route 220 mainline travel lanes, five major interchanges will be studied, including: Orange Avenue, Williamson Road, Elm Avenue, Franklin Road, Colonial Avenue/Wonju Street. Also, adjacent intersections along Orange Avenue, Elm Avenue, Williamson Road, Jefferson Street, Colonial Avenue, Franklin Road and Wonju Street are part of the study.

When the study is complete, the team will present a report of recommended changes to the Roanoke City Council and the Virginia Department of Transportation.

Citizen Information Meeting handouts (pdf):

July 27, 2006

October 18, 2005

Narrative to design alternatives (pdf)