Public information session set regarding I-81 exit modification study

The Harrisonburg-Rockingham Metropolitan Planning Organization (HRMPO) will hold a public information meeting on March 5, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the Lucy F. Simms Continuing Education Center, 620 Simms Avenue, Harrisonburg, regarding I-81 Exits 245 and 247 Interchange Alternatives Analysis (IAA).

The purpose of the IAA is to evaluate interchange modifications on Interstate 81 at Exit 245 (State Route 253/Port Republic Road) and Exit 247 (U.S. Route 33/East Market Street). The Harrisonburg-Rockingham Metropolitan Planning Organization (HRMPO) in partnership with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), the City of Harrisonburg, and James Madison University (JMU) identified the need to undertake the study to address existing and future operational, safety, access, economic development, and system connectivity needs.

Both interchanges fall within the corporate limits of the City of Harrisonburg and provide access to existing and developing commercial/employment and residential areas of the City of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County as well as the JMU campus. Additional information on the Interchange Alternatives Analysis Study including the proposed alternatives may be reviewed on the HRMPO website atwww.hrvampo.org under Plans and Projects.