VDOT News - Salem

SALEM – The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has provided a virtual update and is conducting an online survey to receive additional public input on a planning study to consider potential safety and operational improvements along a five-mile section of Route 460 (Orange/Challenger Avenue).  The portion of Route 460 extends between Williamson Road (Route 11) in Roanoke and Route 220 Alternate (Cloverdale Road) in Roanoke County.

In lieu of an in-person meeting that was going to be held this spring, VDOT invites residents and travelers to learn more by viewing a video presentation and to share feedback by completing an online survey by June 30.

The presentation, survey, past meeting materials and more study details are all available at www.virginiadot.org/Route460OperationalStudy. Comments can also be sent to Mr. Michael Gray, michael.gray@vdot.virginia.gov, VDOT Salem District Planning Manager, 731 Harrison Avenue, Salem, VA 24153.

The purpose of the study is to develop concepts for future, low-cost projects that can help improve safety and traffic flow on the section of Route 460 in the study area that averages 40,000 vehicles per day and experiences significant congestion during weekday peak commute times.

The video presentation provides information about the possible improvements that were developed since the first public information meeting that was held in November 2019.  These include

• Constructing innovative intersections
• Implementing access management strategies including medians for properties and streets along the corridor
• Adding turn lanes at intersections
• Optimizing signal operations

Localities can consider including the potential improvements developed as part of the study in their comprehensive plans and can pursue these projects for future funding. The final study is expected to be complete and posted online this summer. 

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