Alternative Designs Proposed For Virginia Capital Trail

By Junelynn Tran
VCU Insight

RICHMOND, Va. -- Two alternative designs have been proposed for the next phase of development for the Virginia Capital Trail, a separate trail or a widened shoulder along Route 5. The next phase will be constructed in Varina in eastern Henrico County.

A recent public hearing by the Virginia Department of Transportation gathered citizens opinion and found that more than 75% of Varina residents prefer a separate trail. A shoulder-widening project would impact property owners and could cost almost twice as much as a separate trail.

The 55-mile Virginia Capital Trail runs parallel along Route 5 all the way from Richmond to Williamsburg. Four sections of the trail are already complete. The trail should be finished by 2014.