The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and the town of Blacksburg held a design public hearing Wednesday in the Blacksburg Community Center. Patrons filtered in and out of a room filled with conceptual designs of a proposed roundabout in Blacksburg.

A roundabout is a circle of road that replaces a traffic light intersection. This proposed 'traffic circle' will be placed at the intersection of Prices Fork Road and North Main Street (460 Business).

It will consist of two lanes with traffic flowing through both directions on North Main and incoming and outgoing through Prices Fork Road.

The creation of this roundabout was suggested in October of 2003 by the town of Blacksburg's Resolution. The purpose of its proposal is to improve North Main Street traffic control. The project will begin at Kabrich Street and end at College Avenue with these sections being reduced to one lane in each direction. A center turning lane will allow for access to side streets and businesses.

The changes will focus on being pedestrian-friendly; pedestrian actuated signals will be installed at key spots along the proposed route of adjustment.

Citizens were assured that the proposed improvements are compliant with the Stormwater Management Act, the Stormwater Regulations and the annual Stormwater Maagement Standards and Specifications approved by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.

As Blacksburg citizens took a look at designs inside the Blacksburg Community Center that showed their future traffic pattern, representatives from the town of Blacksburg and VDOT were available to answer their questions. A simulated roundabout was shown on a screen at the front of the room with computer-generated vehicles traveling through it.

The estimated total cost of this project is $11.2 million. This projected cost, however, as the plan is still in its premature stages. It will be paid for by town, state and federal funds.

A feedback sheet was provided at the design public hearing for convenience. Written comments from citizens are welcome and will be accepted on or before July 19. Please address comments to the following address:

Virginia Department of Transportation
Mr. Richard Caywood, P.E.
Salem District Administrator
P.O. Box 3071
Salem, VA 24153

Comments will be reviewed by VDOT. Blacksburg Town Council will continue their involvement in the project by reviewing the design features as suggested by VDOT. If approval continues, acquisition of right of way will begin in early 2009. In early 2011, construction bids are hoped to be open. Building will begin within 24 months of the awarded bid.

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