Through its Strategically Targeted Affordable Roadway Solutions (STARS) program, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) identifies corridors with safety and congestion challenges and develops solutions that can be programmed into VDOT’s Six-Year Improvement Program or funded through other federal and state programs.

VDOT identified Riverside Drive (US 58 Business) in the City of Danville as a STARS corridor because of safety and access spacing concerns. Five fatal crashes occurred between 2013 and 2018, including two pedestrian deaths, and crash rates are high. Sidewalks and crosswalks are lacking along much of the 3-mile study corridor, and the spacing of median openings and commercial driveways is far below VDOT’s minimum spacing requirements, presenting conflict points for crash potential. VDOT’s 2018 Pedestrian Safety Action Plan identified Riverside Drive as a Pedestrian Safety Priority Corridor.

EPR conducted the Riverside Drive Corridor Improvement Study, which included analyzing crash data, identifying safety and access spacing deficiencies, and modeling a variety of potential improvements including Restricted Crossing U-Turns, ramp reconfigurations, modifying and closing median openings, introducing pedestrian timings at signalized intersections, adding turn lanes, and reducing the number of through lanes. Recommendations also included constructing new sidewalks, modifying commercial entrances, installing crosswalks and pedestrian hybrid beacons, bus bays and shelters, and trail connections.

EPR developed concept drawings, cost estimates, and project schedules for the recommended improvements. EPR prepared one-page project summary sheets illustrating the safety benefits and traffic operations results for City and VDOT staff to use for SMART SCALE, HSIP, and other funding program applications.

The study was funded through VDOT’s STARS Program and was endorsed by the Danville City Council in February 2020. City staff are applying for funding to implement the recommendations.