The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is seeking public input for two ongoing studies in Bristol, focusing on the Interstate 81 Exit 7 interchange and the King Mill Pike area. The department will host a public meeting on Wednesday, October 29, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Virginia Intermediate School, located at 350 Van Pelt Circle in Bristol.
In addition to the in-person meeting, VDOT has opened online surveys for both projects. Community members can provide feedback on the Interstate 81 Exit 7 Interchange study through this link: https://www.vdot.virginia.gov/projects/bristol-district/interstate-81-exit-7-stars-study/. Input on the King Mill Pike study can be submitted here: https://www.vdot.virginia.gov/projects/bristol-district/king-mill-pike-stars-study-bristol/. The surveys are available from October 24 through November 7, 2025.
These studies are part of VDOT’s STARS (Strategically Targeted Affordable Roadway Solutions) Program, which aims to create multimodal transportation solutions to address congestion and safety issues across Virginia. Study elements include business access, turn-lane improvements, traffic signal coordination, intersection upgrades, pedestrian connectivity enhancements, and other measures targeting safety and congestion.
Written comments can also be mailed to Mr. Blake Ailor, Bristol District Planner, at 2111 Bonham Road, Bristol, Virginia 24201. Alternatively, comments may be emailed to Blake.Ailor@vdot.virginia.gov with “Interstate 81 Exit 7 STARS Study” or “King Mill Pike STARS Study” in the subject line. The deadline for submitting feedback is November 7.
