City’s Public Works Prepares for Two-Way Conversions in Shockoe Bottom

Several streets in Shockoe Bottom are being converted from one-way to two-way streets. The planned street conversions are part of the City’s Downtown Master Plan, and were also recommended in the Shockoe Bottom Transportation Study. Phased in conversions have been taking place since 2010.

Beginning Saturday, July 25, 18th Street between Grace and Broad will be two-way. Work crews have marked pavement, modified traffic signals and will integrate angled parking within areas of the project limits. Work on 17th Street continues, and conversion to two-way on 17th is expected to follow in the next several weeks.

Converting streets from one-way to two-way has been indicated to help businesses thrive, improve walkability, and balance traffic movements with livability. Studies have shown that two-way streets are healthier for on-street retail businesses and expanding visibility. All of the changes support improved vehicular circulation in Shockoe Bottom.

 These traffic flow improvements include:

·         Converting 17th Street to two-way traffic from Broad Street to Franklin Street
·         Converting 18th Street to two-way traffic from Grace Street to Broad Street
·         Converting Franklin Street to two-way traffic from 17th Street to 19th Street
·         Converting 19th Street to two-way traffic from Grace Street to Main Street

The project also includes the uncovering and restoration of the existing cobblestone surface on Franklin Street from 18th to 19th streets.

This project is funded by the Virginia Department of Transportation’s Highway Safety Improvement Program under the 2005 Safe, Accountable, Flexible and Efficient Transportation Equity Act.