The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is requesting public input on a study evaluating potential safety and multimodal improvements at the intersection of Ridge Street, U.S. 250 Business (West Main Street), and Water Street in Charlottesville. This initiative, known as the Strategically Targeted Affordable Roadway Solutions (STARS) study, aims to assess current conditions and explore opportunities for enhancements for all users of the roadway.
A public survey is open until April 7 to collect comments from the community. The intersection in question serves as a key access point to the Downtown Mall, a major commercial hub in Charlottesville. It is noted for its complex layout that poses navigation challenges for various modes of transportation. Traffic data indicates an annual average daily volume ranging from about 2,000 vehicles on West South Street to 21,000 vehicles on Ridge Street and Ridge McIntire Street.
The survey can be accessed online at https://publicinput.com/ridgestreetstudy. VDOT is collaborating with the city of Charlottesville to identify transportation needs and propose recommendations to enhance this intersection’s functionality. More details are available on the study’s web page titled “STARS study: Ridge Street and West Main Street intersection.”
This study will focus on identifying potential safety and operational improvements for vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians, and transit users within the area. It will also develop cost estimates for preferred alternatives without committing funds or setting construction timelines.
Inquiries regarding the study should be directed to Sandy Shackelford, VDOT planning specialist, at (540) 315-2778 or Sandy.Shackelford@VDOT.Virginia.gov.
Updates about conditions in VDOT’s Culpeper District can be found on X.com/VaDOTCulp and their Facebook page. Current traffic conditions across Virginia are available through VDOT’s statewide network of traffic cameras on the 511Virginia website, mobile app, or by calling 511 within Virginia.
