Representatives of the City of Danville and the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), as well as project consultants from Hayes, Seay, Mattern and Mattern (HSMM), will be on hand during a design public hearing for Piedmont Drive and Robertson Bridge in Danville on Thursday, March 6 at the Ballou Park Recreation Center between 4:00 and 7:00 p.m. While the hearing is informal in nature, HSMM will intermittently provide a brief presentation on the project.

VDOT conducted a Location Study in the late 1990’s to determine the best overall approach to replacing the two-lane bridge and improving traffic flow on adjacent roadways. Following public comment, the Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) approved an alignment and VDOT and the city began the accrual of funds.

In 2006, HSMM was hired to develop construction plans for the bridge and interchange. Due to several factors, including cost and traffic volume, a modified plan was developed that focused largely on the bridge. The new concept was presented at a Citizen Information Meeting in September 2007.

Construction of the new bridge, actually two structures, and other improvements will require several major utility relocations and the need for right of way and easements from some commercial properties. No residents will be displaced as a result of the project.

Written comments will be taken at the hearing and may also be submitted to VDOT within 10 calendar days of the meeting (by March 16) to Renard Yeatts, VDOT, P. O. Box 11649, Lynchburg, VA 24506 or by email at Renard.Yeatts@VDOT.Virginia.gov.