April 27, 2026 – The City of Staunton is preparing for two major downtown intersection initiatives and is inviting residents to help shape the future of the city's main thoroughfare through a new community survey and a month-long demonstration project this June.
First shared with City Council at their January 8, 2026 Work Session, and then again at a work session on April 23, staff presented updates on the Downtown Intersection Improvements Project, a permanent safety initiative slated for 2027, and the Beverley Street Demonstration Project, a grant-funded, month-long "pop-up" experience scheduled for June 2026.
A Shared Vision: 2026 Demo & 2027 Permanent Upgrades
The 2027 project, funded through the Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP), will bring permanent pedestrian safety enhancements to six intersections along Beverley Street and three along Johnson Street. Planned features include new traffic signal equipment, pedestrian push buttons, high-visibility crosswalks, and ADA-compliant curb extensions.
Because the 2027 curb extensions will naturally narrow Beverley Street to a single travel lane at intersections, the city is launching a Demonstration Project from June 1 to June 30, 2026. During this time, the right-side travel lane will be closed on a two-block stretch of Beverley Street between Augusta and Market streets. On-street parking will not be affected.
“This change in traffic flow allows the city to reimagine the spaces typically dedicated to cars and see how they can better serve people,” said Engagement & Communications Manager Josh Knight. “The space will be transformed with temporary, inviting features like benches, trees, and shrubs”.
How to Get Involved
The city’s primary goal is to gather authentic feedback on how this one-lane configuration functions for drivers, shoppers, pedestrians, and businesses.
- Take the Survey: Residents are encouraged to complete the Pre-Project Survey, available now through June 1, to share their initial thoughts and expectations.
- Kickoff Event: A short "placeholder" ribbon-cutting ceremony and project kickoff will be held on the new pedestrian space on Monday, June 1 at 2 p.m.
- Experience the Space: The demonstration elements will remain in place 24/7 throughout June, co-existing with the weekend "Shop & Dine Out" program.
Project Timeline
The city is currently reviewing 30% design plans for the permanent 2027 intersection improvements. A formal public hearing will follow in one to two months, with construction anticipated to begin in Fall 2027.
To take the survey and find comprehensive project details, including maps and design elements, visit:
