The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is requesting public input on a study focused on potential improvements for South Van Dorn Street. The STARS (Strategically Targeted Affordable Roadway Solutions) study aims to assess safety, operational, transit, and bicycle/pedestrian enhancements along the 2.5-mile section between Telegraph Road and the Alexandria city limits.
Traffic volumes on South Van Dorn Street range from 14,000 to 37,000 vehicles daily. The speed limit varies: 35 mph between Telegraph Road and Franconia Road, 45 mph between Franconia Road and I-95/I-495, and back to 35 mph from I-95/I-495 to the Alexandria city limits.
VDOT encourages residents and commuters to participate in an online survey about corridor priorities. This feedback will contribute to developing improvement alternatives that will be reviewed in another public comment session later this year.
The survey is open until March 14 and includes a translation tool for Spanish and other languages. Comments can also be emailed to meetingcomments@vdot.virginia.gov with “South Van Dorn Street STARS Study” as the subject or mailed to Mr. Bobby Mangalath at VDOT’s Fairfax office by March 14.
Completion of the study is anticipated by late 2026. While STARS studies do not establish construction timelines, they propose improvements that localities may seek funding for.
VDOT adheres to nondiscrimination policies under Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. For more information or assistance for individuals with disabilities or limited English proficiency, contact VDOT Civil Rights at 703-259-1775 or TTY/TDD 711.
