5/4/23

An I-81 widening project and the Shenandoah Rail Trail dominated the conversation last night as the Virginia Department of Transportation discussed its five-year plan during a public meeting.

On tap for construction is a section of interstate near Staunton where engineers plan to add a third lane in either direction. Bridge repair and replacement is also a hallmark of the suggested plan.

However, the proposed Shenandoah Rail Trail also drew considerable attention, with speakers adamant that the 38-and-a-half-mile stretch of repurposed Norfolk Southern railway would bring tourism and business between Broadway to Front Royal.

V-DOT’s half-decade plan will take effect next year.