University Boulevard Realignment

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Current Size: 80%

The project realigns University Blvd between the old convocation center parking lot and Forest Hill Road at the Oak Hill Drive intersection. The project replaces the existing University Blvd with a new 2-lane roadway with a shared-use path and sidewalk. The project will transition University Blvd into a safer and more efficient multi-modal corridor for travel to and from JMU and destinations in the Southeast part of Harrisonburg. It is currently a 2-lane rural typical section that has been adapted in various ways over the years as traffic volumes have grown. The project will reestablish University Blvd as an urban collector, in keeping with its current role, traffic volumes, and continuous trend of adjacent urbanization. The realignment will allow University Blvd to become the through movement at Oak Hill Drive, transferring the stop control to the side street, which will improve safety and operations for University Blvd, as well as Port Republic Road. The shared-use path will be constructed along Forest Hill Road and University Blvd between Port Republic Road and Carrier Drive, creating a continuous bicycle and pedestrian connection between the existing infrastructure on Port Republic Rd, Driver Drive, and Carrier Dr. Project funded through the VDOT Revenue Sharing Program.

University Blvd Realignment Project Plan

University Blvd realignment

University Blvd realignment - proposed sections

(Right click images to open in a new tab for a larger version.)

 

Project Schedule:

Preliminary Engineering – 2021-22

Right-of-way acquisition and utility relocation – 2022-24

Construction – 2025

Open House & Design Public Hearing:

The open house-style public hearing was held on Wednesday, September 7th from 4:00pm - 6:30pm at the City Hall Council Chambers. The public was invited to attend the meeting about the realignment of University Boulevard from its intersection with Oak Hill Drive/Forest Hill Road to the James Madison University Old Convocation Center parking lot, and the addition of a shared use path from Port Republic Road to Carrier Drive. The purpose of this project is to improve traffic operations, safety, and multimodal travel between activity centers and arterial roadways that serve longer-distance trips.

Survey: 

Review, ask questions, and provide feedback on the proposed project plans and the State Environmental Review Process document (including the historic properties assessment) through our online survey,  or at the City of Harrisonburg Public Works Department Office; appointment required; 540-434-5928. Property impact information and the tentative construction schedule will be available for your review.

Submit your comments by September 21, 2022, to Ms. Erin Yancey, Public Works Planning Manager, City of Harrisonburg, 320 E. Mosby Road, Harrisonburg VA, 22801, or email your comments to Erin.Yancey@harrisonburgva.gov. Please reference “University Blvd” in the subject line. A survey will be available to facilitate comments submission in online and hardcopy formats.

 

The City of Harrisonburg, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Regulations, shall not exclude from participation in, deny the benefits of, or otherwise discriminate against any person because of race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, or low-income that wishes to participate in any program or activity. If you have questions or concerns about your civil rights in regard to this project, or need special assistance for persons with disabilities or limited English proficiency to participate in this opportunity for project review and comment, contact the Title VI Coordinator at 540-434-5928.