Drivers traveling down Route 501 from Rustburg to Halifax County will see changes in road conditions in the coming years.
On Thursday night, officials with the Virginia Department of Transportation were at Brookneal Elementary School to hear concerns and suggestions from motorists, who often travel the route.
The citizens information meeting, which drew more than 100 people from Campbell and Halifax counties, was designed to discuss the proposed spot safety improvements on Route 501 in the two counties.
According to officials from VDOT, Route 501 has two travel lanes with narrow shoulders and vertical alignments with limited sight distance in addition to heavy truck traffic. The route also has a limited number of passing opportunities due to poor sight distance.
VDOT's purpose for the improvements is to increase safety and improve traffic flow within the 42-mile corridor of Route 501 running from Rustburg through Halifax.
"VDOT is here tonight and eager and willing to listen and put your ideas together to make your travel safe," Brookneal District Supervisor J.D. Puckett told those in attendance. "I'm concerned with this project just as you are, but my main priority is safe travel."
Besides being a county supervisor, Puckett also serves on the U.S. 501 Regional Coalition. The coalition, which was established 16 years ago, is composed of officials and residents from Bedford, Campbell and Halifax counties. All three counties have joined together for one common goal - to make 501 safer.
Robert Cary, VDOT's Lynchburg District administrator, presented possible improvements to 501. Cary said the anticipated improvements include, but are not limited to, passing zones, additional right and left turn lanes, guardrails, signage and widened shoulders.
He anticipated the roadwork would begin in June 2014. The estimated cost of the work is $11.2 million.
Halifax County resident Hattie Britton attended the meeting to clarify some rumors she had heard.
"I came out because I had heard different things from a four-lane highway to extra lanes on the left side of the road," she said. "I am concerned on whether or not it will end up taking people's property."
Britton, who moved into her house located on 501 two years ago, stressed her main concern was how VDOT will go about the project and the possibility of property being taken.
Another meeting is expected in 2013.
Residents can still send written comments to the project manager, Renard Yeatts, by the Dec. 25 deadline. Comments should be emailed to [email protected]. VDOT asks all submissions have Route 501 spot improvements citizen information meeting labeled in the subject line.
Concerns and suggestions can also be sent to 4219 Campbell Ave., Lynchburg, Va. 24501.