Draper Road Streetscape

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The Vision for Draper Road Streetscape

The Draper Road Streetscape Project aims to transform the Draper Road corridor, from College Avenue to Washington Street, into a welcoming, walkable, bikeable, and vibrant public space. Initial planning in 2021–2022, in partnership with consulting firm RK&K, included extensive public engagement and the development of several conceptual designs. Guided by the community-developed

“bold + blended” concept, which focused on creating a people-centered corridor with limited vehicle access and engaging, flexible public spaces, the Draper Road Streetscape project envisions wider sidewalks, outdoor dining areas, intentionally designed public spaces, and improved bicycle accommodations. Together, these enhancements are intended to strengthen Blacksburg’s cohesive downtown character and foster a better physical connection between Virginia Tech and Downtown Blacksburg.

Previous community feedback informed the development of a preferred plan, resulting in a more walkable and bike-friendly environment with improved spaces for gatherings, events, and community activities. Interim improvements supporting this project vision were installed in 2024. Now, the Town is preparing for the larger transformation of Draper Road to bring the proposed design into its final format. In June 2026, project staff hosted an in-person public engagement booth at the Blacksburg Farmers Market to show design materials and gather community feedback and thoughts.
Construction on the final streetscape’s design features is anticipated to begin in 2027.

A video explaining the updated features is available here, and is stored under the 'Video' tab on the right-hand side of this page.

Moving from Vision to Design

As this work moves forward, community feedback is vital to shaping this project's outcome. As the proposed streetscape design is refined, the Town is seeking input to ensure local priorities are reflected, and the final plan supports a lively, people-focused downtown.

You are invited to take the survey below to share your thoughts on how the space can best support everyday use, special events, local businesses, and enhance the overall downtown experience.

Community input is an important part of defining how Draper Road looks, feels, and functions for years to come.

How to Participate

  • Complete the online survey using the link below by Monday, July 20 at 5pm.

We encourage you to stay engaged and check back frequently as the project continues to evolve. Thank you for playing a role in shaping this space for our community!

The Vision for Draper Road Streetscape

The Draper Road Streetscape Project aims to transform the Draper Road corridor, from College Avenue to Washington Street, into a welcoming, walkable, bikeable, and vibrant public space. Initial planning in 2021–2022, in partnership with consulting firm RK&K, included extensive public engagement and the development of several conceptual designs. Guided by the community-developed

“bold + blended” concept, which focused on creating a people-centered corridor with limited vehicle access and engaging, flexible public spaces, the Draper Road Streetscape project envisions wider sidewalks, outdoor dining areas, intentionally designed public spaces, and improved bicycle accommodations. Together, these enhancements are intended to strengthen Blacksburg’s cohesive downtown character and foster a better physical connection between Virginia Tech and Downtown Blacksburg.

Previous community feedback informed the development of a preferred plan, resulting in a more walkable and bike-friendly environment with improved spaces for gatherings, events, and community activities. Interim improvements supporting this project vision were installed in 2024. Now, the Town is preparing for the larger transformation of Draper Road to bring the proposed design into its final format. In June 2026, project staff hosted an in-person public engagement booth at the Blacksburg Farmers Market to show design materials and gather community feedback and thoughts.
Construction on the final streetscape’s design features is anticipated to begin in 2027.

A video explaining the updated features is available here, and is stored under the 'Video' tab on the right-hand side of this page.

Moving from Vision to Design

As this work moves forward, community feedback is vital to shaping this project's outcome. As the proposed streetscape design is refined, the Town is seeking input to ensure local priorities are reflected, and the final plan supports a lively, people-focused downtown.

You are invited to take the survey below to share your thoughts on how the space can best support everyday use, special events, local businesses, and enhance the overall downtown experience.

Community input is an important part of defining how Draper Road looks, feels, and functions for years to come.

How to Participate

  • Complete the online survey using the link below by Monday, July 20 at 5pm.

We encourage you to stay engaged and check back frequently as the project continues to evolve. Thank you for playing a role in shaping this space for our community!

  • Draper Road Streetscape Public Input Survey

    We’re seeking community feedback on 1) the current temporary improvements along Draper Road—from College Avenue to Washington Street, 2) the envisioned permanent streetscape design, and 3) ideas for future features such as a public restroom and a social yard. Your input will help us understand what’s working well, what needs improvement, and which amenities would best support a vibrant, accessible, and welcoming streetscape.

    This feedback will directly inform the design of the permanent streetscape, scheduled for construction in 2027.

    Before beginning this survey, please take a few minutes to view a video explaining these improvements and updated features. This video is also stored under the 'Video' tab on the right-hand side of the main project page.

    Please take 5–10 minutes to share your thoughts in the survey. Thank you!



    Take Survey
    Share Draper Road Streetscape Public Input Survey on Facebook Share Draper Road Streetscape Public Input Survey on X (formerly Twitter) Share Draper Road Streetscape Public Input Survey on Linkedin Email Draper Road Streetscape Public Input Survey link
Page last updated: 24 Jun 2026, 12:40 PM