City plans extend Paul Street and improve Liberty Street for better traffic flow

The Harrisonburg Planning Commission convened on July 9, 2025, to discuss several key developments impacting the city, particularly focusing on residential and commercial projects, traffic analysis, and infrastructure improvements.

The meeting began with a detailed overview of a proposed development on East Water Street, which will feature 194 residential units across 2.63 acres, resulting in a density of 73 units per acre. This project will also include approximately 12,000 square feet of commercial space. Comparatively, the Link Apartments, another nearby development, consists of 265 units on 2.75 acres, with a higher density of 96 units per acre and a minimum of 2,000 square feet of commercial space.

Attention then shifted to the traffic impact analysis (TIA) associated with the new development. The TIA, accepted by Public Works in March 2025, indicated that while there would be minimal increases in controlled delay and queuing at intersections, none warranted mitigation from the new development. However, the study acknowledged existing intersections in the area that are already failing, particularly at Grattan Street and Main Street, Grace and Main Street, and MLK and South Main Street.

The commission also discussed the Liberty Street project, which has received $14 million in funding. This project aims to enhance Liberty Street from Knoll Drive to South Main Street, with construction expected to begin in 2027 or 2028. Proposed changes include reducing the street to one southbound lane, adding a two-way cycle track, and improving pedestrian safety with sidewalks and landscaped medians.

Additionally, the potential extension of Paul Street was presented. This extension would connect Main Street to Liberty Street, enhancing the street network in line with the city’s comprehensive plan. The proposal includes sidewalks on both sides of the new street and improvements to existing sidewalks along South Main Street and South Liberty Street.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted significant residential and commercial developments, ongoing traffic studies, and infrastructure projects aimed at improving safety and connectivity in Harrisonburg. The commission will continue to monitor these developments as they progress.