For over 100 years, the defining geographical feature of Danville has been the railroad tracks the run north and south through town.  Entering and exiting the city limits as two tracks and expanding into a 20-track wide switch yard near town, the tracks have always been a barrier that divides the city.  Even the census tracts in Danville are divided by the railroad tracks.  Along the approximately 3.5 miles that the railroad winds its way through town, there only 3 grade separated vehicular crossings and only one of them include sidewalks.  This has created a myriad of issues ranging from traffic congestion and safety to public safety concerns.

Danville is recent years has worked to cultivate a relationship with the facility owner, Norfolk Southern, including partnering on projects to benefit the community and industrial area.  

The City is requesting a $200,000 grant with the City providing an additional $50,000 to develop a study the impact of the railroad and produce project concepts to re-establish and improve connections along the rail corridor.  

‍Potential projects could include: widening of grade separated crossings to allow for protected and dedicated pedestrian and bicycle facilities, construction of pedestrian crossings at critical locations such as Millennium Park, and the development of a new vehicular crossing on the southside of town to improve traffic safety.  An emphasis will be placed on providing benefits to historically underserved neighborhoods and vulnerable users to ensure all citizens of Danville can safely and effectively utilize the transportation system.

‍

The included supporting document below fully responds to the Merit Criteria for this proposed project, including: 

• Equity and Environmental Justice: reconnecting historically disadvantaged communities to vital resources
• Access: Improving emergency response, and access to shopping, schools and historic Downtown Danville
• Equitable Development: Addresses lack of affordable housing but opening up opportunities through proper connectivity
  See also: Downtown Danville Masterplan
• Climate and Environment: reduce pollution by providing shorter car trips, and active mobility to community parks, schools and Downtown Danville
• Workforce Development and Economic Opportunity: through partnerships with organizations like CentreWorks, using collaboration and innovation, to research and develop initiatives for a resilient community and engage local minority-owned businesses throughout the process

‍

‍

‍