VN STAFF – Jobs and transportation go hand in hand. Recognizing the link between economic opportunity and transportation infrastructure that efficiently moves people and goods is paramount to a healthy local economy. The Richmond region and the Virginia Secretary of Transportation are conducting a study of a key jobs corridor in the Richmond region. One is the Jefferson Davis Corridor, according to a website set up to survey area residents and businesses.
The map above shows the boundaries of the Commerce Corridor Transportation Study area. The map shows the transportation options currently on the ground and projects that are underway, either in the planning phase or under construction. The focus of the study will inform the planning group of how to best service the marine terminal and improve traffic flow, rather automobile, pedestrian, rail, but the study puts some focus on the Industrial Commerce Corridor. It is defined by the mainline of I-95 and supporting multi-modal network south of the James River from the Maury Street interchange in the City of Richmond to the I-95 at Route 10 interchange in Chester. The Commerce Corridor Transportation Study capitalizes on the opportunities provided by the Richmond Marine Terminal, operated by Port of Virginia. The effort will analyze short-, medium-, and long-term improvements to the vital industrial and commercial corridor along 13 miles of Interstate 95 spanning from the James River in the City of Richmond to Route 10 in Chesterfield County.
A project plan and investment strategy effort is now under way and scheduled for completion in early 2017.
The collaborative planning effort of state, regional, and local interests is led by the Richmond Regional Transportation Planning Organization with financial and consultant support provided by the Virginia Secretary of Transportation’s Office of Intermodal Planning and Investment (OIPI).
Michael Baker International will provide consulting services for the Commerce Corridor: Transportation, Connectivity, Accessibility and Economic Opportunity Study. This truly multimodal study will examine the development opportunities that will occur if the Richmond Marine Terminal (RMT) fulfills its potential and will examine the highway and rail transportation needs associated with a number of development scenarios.
When the online survey is concluded, the results will be “evaluated to determine potential projects,” said Catie Bray, Richmond Regional Planning District Commission. “Currently the inventory of project is not completed, but once collected their will be outreach [to the community].”
To participate in the study which will close at the end of October, visit the survey website at For more information on the study, please visit the Richmond Regional Transportation Planning Organization’s website at
http://www.richmondregional.org/Commerce_Corridor/index.htm. or go directly to the survey Straight to Survey
You may also email Catie Bray at
or call (804) 323-2033 with any questions.
