Old Dominion News

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is currently gathering feedback on a study concerning Route 7 in Loudoun County. The study, part of the Strategically Targeted Affordable Roadway Solutions (STARS) program, evaluates potential improvements for safety, operations, transit, and bicycle/pedestrian facilities along an eight-mile section of Route 7. This stretch extends from the Leesburg Bypass/East Market Street interchange to the Algonkian Parkway/Atlantic Boulevard interchange.

Traffic on this segment of Route 7 ranges from 121,000 to 142,000 vehicles daily. Speed limits vary within this area: 45 mph between the Leesburg Bypass/East Market Street interchange and Battlefield Parkway; 55 mph between Battlefield Parkway and Route 28; and 50 mph between Route 28 and the Algonkian Parkway/Atlantic Boulevard interchange. Route 7 serves as a major regional link connecting Tysons in Fairfax County eastward towards Alexandria and westward to Leesburg and surrounding areas.

VDOT encourages residents and travelers to participate in an online survey about corridor priorities. The insights gathered will contribute to developing improvement alternatives that will be reviewed during another public comment period later this year.

The survey is available until March 19 and includes a translation tool for Spanish and other languages. Feedback can also be emailed to meetingcomments@vdot.virginia.gov with "Route 7 STARS Study" in the subject line or mailed to Ms. Manasi Phadnis at VDOT's Fairfax office by March 19.

Completion of the study is anticipated by late 2026. While STARS studies do not set construction dates for improvements, they propose enhancements that localities can seek funding for.

VDOT emphasizes its commitment to nondiscrimination in accordance with Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. For further information or assistance for persons with disabilities or limited English proficiency, contact VDOT Civil Rights at 703-259-1775 or TTY/TDD at 711.