Port Republic Road Safety and Operations Study (2019)
This study addresses operational and safety issues at multiple intersections along the corridor between South Main Street and Devon Lane. The corridor provides critical access to commercial and neighborhood entrances, and is a primary entrance into the James Madison University campus. Increased growth and demand from all modes of transportation, combined with closely-spaced intersections and interchange ramps, create traffic congestion and safety issues that have an impact on regional travel conditions.
The study is conducting an operational and safety analysis of the corridor, and testing the outcomes of specific treatments to determine their effectiveness. The study will provide decision makers and the public with recommendations supported by visualizations and measurable benefits to travelers including reduced travel times, improved level of service, and improved safety. The study corridor is broken into three sub-areas/elements:
- Neighborhood access between South Main Street and I-81 Exit 245
- Commercial, Neighborhood, and Interstate Access east of Exit 245 to Devon Lane
- Corridor-wide Safety Analysis
Regional Significance: Port Republic Road (VA 253) is a regional link to Interstate 81 and serves travel markets between Harrisonburg and Rockingham county, including James Madison University, Sentara RMH Medical Center, and more.
Study Objectives: Evaluate operational and safety issues at multiple intersections along the corridor between South Main Street and Devon Lane. The study will also recommennd access management solutions that improve operations, capacity, flow, and safety.
Public Input: A public open house meeting was held Monday, March 11, 2019 at Harrisonburg City Hall, Council Chambers, 409 South Main Street.
