Developing Design Elements for Scenic Byways in Virginia

Book excerpt: Virginia has had a scenic roads program since 1966 that provides for the designation of certain roads as Virginia Byways. This program does not require the application of any special technical requirements in the selection, designation, maintenance, or modification of these roads. The research reported herein was undertaken to determine (1) whether these Virginia Byways require special design considerations by virtue of their use, (2) what design elements that would be dictated if special design considerations were found to be appropriate, and (3) the degree to which current standards provide for these considerations. The institutional memory on the subject was reviewed, and current federal and state scenic roads programs were examined. It was concluded (1) that special design considerations are appropriate, (2) that design elements could be identified, and (3) that current design standards provide for neither the design considerations nor the resulting design elements. Recommendations are made for future practice and further research.