South Street Improvements Project Aims to Boost Safety, Accessibility in Front Royal

A major safety improvement project is underway along South Street in the Town of Front Royal, with construction expected to begin in summer 2027. The project, being led by the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), is designed to make the roadway safer and more accessible for all users—especially in a high-traffic corridor that sees frequent use by pedestrians, cars, and large vehicles.

The project focuses on a busy stretch of South Street between Hill Street and Commerce Avenue/Remount Road (Route 522). This area includes a variety of local businesses and services and serves as a key connector route through town.

According to VDOT, the improvements are part of a long-term strategy to reduce traffic conflicts and improve pedestrian safety in one of Front Royal’s most active commercial corridors.

Key Features of the Project

The proposed upgrades include:

• New crosswalks at multiple locations along and across South Street
• Upgraded traffic signals
• Raised medians are designed to serve as pedestrian refuge areas

These changes are intended to reduce the risk of vehicle-pedestrian collisions and minimize vehicle-to-vehicle crashes in the corridor. The raised medians will give people walking across the street a safer place to pause, especially in areas with multiple traffic lanes.

VDOT data shows that South Street carried an average of 14,137 vehicles per day in 2023, and that number is projected to grow to 16,100 by 2050. The project is meant to ensure that the road can safely accommodate current and future traffic volumes while making it easier and safer for pedestrians to navigate.

During construction, temporary lane closures and sidewalk interruptions may occur, but access to all surrounding businesses will be maintained. VDOT has emphasized that it will work to minimize disruptions to the local community.

Project Timeline and Cost

The South Street Improvements Project is currently in the design phase. Key milestones include:

• Design approval: Expected by Spring 2026
• Right-of-way and utility relocation: Scheduled to begin in Fall 2026
• Construction advertisement: Expected in Summer 2027
• Completion date: To be determined based on contract award

The total estimated cost of the project is $4 million, which includes:

• $482,000 for preliminary engineering and roadway design
• $561,322 for right-of-way acquisition, relocation assistance, and utility adjustments
• $2,994,630 for construction

This project is funded through SMART SCALE, Virginia’s statewide program that prioritizes transportation improvements based on safety, congestion relief, economic development, and other community impacts. The SMART SCALE program is designed to ensure that limited transportation funds are used where they can provide the greatest benefit.

Environmental Considerations

The project has undergone a thorough environmental review by VDOT’s Staunton District Environmental Office. That review was conducted in line with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and resulted in a Programmatic Categorical Exclusion (PCE) document, developed with input from the Federal Highway Administration.

The environmental assessment considered factors such as:

• Water quality
• Air quality
• Noise levels
• Threatened and endangered species
• Natural and historic resources
• Floodplain impacts

During construction, VDOT will use best management practices to control dust, erosion, and runoff. Officials have stated that access to all properties will be maintained throughout the project.

If any additional environmental permits or clearances are required, they will be obtained before construction begins.

Right of Way and Property Impacts

One important note for residents and business owners is that the project will not displace any families, businesses, or non-profit organizations. However, additional easements may be needed for utility relocation, and property owners will be contacted if their land is affected.

Public Hearing and How to Submit Comments

A design public hearing was held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at Samuels Public Library in Front Royal. The hearing allowed local residents, business owners, and stakeholders to learn about the project, view design plans, and share comments or questions directly with VDOT staff.

For those who were unable to attend, public comments will continue to be accepted until January 24, 2026 — ten days after the hearing. Feedback can be submitted in writing or via email.

Mail comments to:

Cameron Murie
Project Manager
Virginia Department of Transportation
811 Commerce Road
Staunton, VA 24401-9029

Email comments to:

Cameron.Murie@VDOT.Virginia.Gov
(Subject line: “South Street PH Comment”)

All public input will be reviewed and considered before final decisions are made. Once public comments are addressed, the project will be presented to VDOT’s Chief Engineer or a designee for final approval of the major design elements.

If approved, the project will move into the final design and construction preparation phase. Those who participated in the public hearing will receive notification of the final decision by letter.

Looking Ahead

The South Street Improvements Project represents a major investment in traffic safety and infrastructure for Front Royal. With support from the state’s SMART SCALE funding, the project aims to reduce crashes, improve walkability, and create a safer environment for all users in a high-traffic area.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed, provide input, and follow updates through VDOT’s Staunton District Office.