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 more welcoming, walkable, bikeable, and vibrant public space. Guided by the community-developed “bold + blended” concept, the project envisions wider sidewalks, outdoor dining areas, meaningful public spaces, improved bicycle accommodations, and a cohesive downtown character that strengthens the connection between Virginia Tech and Downtown Blacksburg.

Initial planning in 2021–2022 included extensive public engagement and the development of several conceptual designs. Community feedback shaped the preferred plan, which focuses on creating a people-centered corridor with limited vehicle access and engaging, flexible public spaces. Interim improvements were installed in 2024 to enhance the area while the Town prepares for the larger transformation.

The final streetscape design is planned for 2026, with construction anticipated to begin in 2027.


Moving from Vision to Design

As this work moves forward, community feedback will continue to shape the final outcome. As we refine the proposed streetscape design, we’re seeking input to ensure the plan reflects local priorities and supports a lively, people‑focused downtown. We invite you to take the survey below and share your thoughts on how the space can best support everyday use, special events, local businesses, and the overall downtown experience.

Your input at this stage will help fine‑tune the details that define how Draper Road looks, feels, and functions for years to come.


Share Your Feedback

Your feedback will help guide the final design and shape the future of this important downtown corridor.


How to Participate

  • Complete the online survey using the link below before July 20th.
  • Or visit us in person at the Blacksburg Farmers Market on June 20, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., to view design materials and talk with Town staff

We encourage you to stay engaged and check back frequently as the project continues to evolve.

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 more welcoming, walkable, bikeable, and vibrant public space. Guided by the community-developed “bold + blended” concept, the project envisions wider sidewalks, outdoor dining areas, meaningful public spaces, improved bicycle accommodations, and a cohesive downtown character that strengthens the connection between Virginia Tech and Downtown Blacksburg.

Initial planning in 2021–2022 included extensive public engagement and the development of several conceptual designs. Community feedback shaped the preferred plan, which focuses on creating a people-centered corridor with limited vehicle access and engaging, flexible public spaces. Interim improvements were installed in 2024 to enhance the area while the Town prepares for the larger transformation.

The final streetscape design is planned for 2026, with construction anticipated to begin in 2027.


Moving from Vision to Design

As this work moves forward, community feedback will continue to shape the final outcome. As we refine the proposed streetscape design, we’re seeking input to ensure the plan reflects local priorities and supports a lively, people‑focused downtown. We invite you to take the survey below and share your thoughts on how the space can best support everyday use, special events, local businesses, and the overall downtown experience.

Your input at this stage will help fine‑tune the details that define how Draper Road looks, feels, and functions for years to come.


Share Your Feedback

Your feedback will help guide the final design and shape the future of this important downtown corridor.


How to Participate

  • Complete the online survey using the link below before July 20th.
  • Or visit us in person at the Blacksburg Farmers Market on June 20, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., to view design materials and talk with Town staff

We encourage you to stay engaged and check back frequently as the project continues to evolve.

  • Draper Road Streetscape Public Engagement 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.

    Please take 5 minutes to watch the video beforehand if you can and then take 5–10 minutes to share your thoughts in the survey.



    Take Survey
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Page last updated: 05 Jun 2026, 12:35 PM