Transportation system design and information requirements for travel and tourism needs on scenic byways

The purpose of this study was to develop a system design and information evaluation process that could be used to review proposed or designated scenic byways. The process was intended to ensure that the geometric and traffic design of these roads were compatible with their intended use. The process that was developed involves the following steps: (1) collection of data pertaining to traffic accidents and geometric elements, (2) analysis of accident and traffic data, (3) identification of improvements for motorized and non-motorized traffic, and (4) provision of information and services. The process, was successfully used to identify design and information requirements for an existing scenic byway: Route 71 1, located in Powhatan County, Virginia. The authors recommend that VDOT develop a design guide and maintain a database of information pertaining to scenic byways. They also recommend that the system design and information methodology be tested by VDOT for other designated and proposed scenic byways.