University community concerns lead to traffic safety improvements
Student, faculty, and staff concerns have prompted safety improvements to Perry and Stanger streets and West Campus Drive.
The safety concerns were identified during a recent parking and transportation survey and during two public meetings on the classroom building construction project this past fall.
Perry and Stanger intersection
The intersection of Perry and Stanger streets will see several safety improvements. Most notable will be the relocation of the Surge parking lot entrance on Stanger Street. The exit will be moved approximately 140 feet northwest toward Prices Fork Road and will only allow right-hand turns exiting the lot. No entry into the parking lot will be allowed at that location. Entry will only be allowed from Perry Street.
As part of the project, signs and pavement markings will be added to increase visibility of the bicycle lanes at the intersection. Also, improved street lights will enhance pedestrian safety.
Signs and pavement markings will be installed to discourage vehicles from blocking the intersection of Stanger and Perry streets, which often becomes congested during rush hour.
“Concerns about the intersection were raised by several members of the university community. We feel these changes will enhance the safety of the area and improve traffic flow,” said Chris Kiwus, associate vice president and chief facilities officer. “Long-term plans call for the construction of a traffic roundabout and other safety enhancements, however those are several years away.”
The safety improvements are expected to slightly reduce the number of parking spaces in the area. Preliminary work has already begun. Construction should be completed by the end of the spring semester, weather dependent.
West Campus Drive
West Campus Drive will see safety improvements at the crosswalks between Hillcrest and Engel halls.
The project will remove one of the crosswalks in the area and part of the sidewalk on the west side of the road. New landscaping and the installation of a post and chain style fence will direct pedestrians to an enhanced crosswalk. Also, two new street lights will improve visibility of the crossing.
“The crosswalk being removed is very difficult for motorists to see. The new, larger crossing will make it much easier and safer for pedestrians to cross the road,” said Kiwus.
Work is expected to be finished by the end of the spring semester, depending on the weather.
Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech takes a hands-on, engaging approach to education, preparing scholars to be leaders in their fields and communities. As the commonwealth’s most comprehensive university and its leading research institution, Virginia Tech offers 240 undergraduate and graduate degree programs to more than 31,000 students and manages a research portfolio of $513 million. The university fulfills its land-grant mission of transforming knowledge to practice through technological leadership and by fueling economic growth and job creation locally, regionally, and across Virginia.
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