The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is requesting public input on a transportation study focused on Melrose Avenue/Orange Avenue (Route 460) in Roanoke. The study aims to address roadway and pedestrian safety, congestion mitigation, multimodal accessibility, and transportation demand management improvements between Lafayette Boulevard and Gainsboro Road/Burrell Street.
The assessment will consider traffic operations and safety conditions, exploring potential improvements that could be eligible for transportation funding. VDOT encourages residents and travelers to participate in an online survey available until June 2. Feedback from this survey will help identify current issues along the corridor and inform recommendations for future improvements. These recommendations will be evaluated and presented during the next phase of the study, which will also include another opportunity for public comment.
The survey is accessible at https://publicinput.com/sa-25-04 and includes a translation tool for other languages. Comments can also be sent via email to William.Crawford@vdot.virginia.gov or mailed to William Crawford at VDOT’s Salem office.
This initiative is part of the Project Pipeline program, established by the Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB). The program aims to identify cost-effective solutions to Virginia’s multimodal transportation needs through performance-based planning. It is led by Virginia’s Office of Intermodal Planning and Investment (OIPI), in collaboration with VDOT and the Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT).
The Commonwealth is working with the City of Roanoke and the Roanoke Valley Transportation Planning Organization to develop targeted improvements that minimize community impacts while addressing priority needs efficiently. The study is expected to conclude in summer 2026 but does not set construction dates for any proposed improvements. The final plan will offer a multimodal investment strategy to secure funding through programs like SMART SCALE.
VDOT ensures nondiscrimination in all its programs according to Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. For more information or assistance for persons with disabilities or limited English proficiency, contact VDOT Civil Rights at 540-387-5552.
