Complete Streets Investment in a Virginia Small Town show how Multi-Modal Investments can Benefit Cities of all Sizes

The city's commitment to walkability didn't end there. In 2018, Hopewell adopted a Comprehensive Plan with miles of new biking and walking facilities. The plan includes a section calling out the benefits and importance of a complete, multi-modal transportation network.

With an existing network of well-connected and relatively congestion-free vehicular streets, Hopewell should concentrate its transportation efforts on completing its transportation network for all users. The most important concept for Hopewell's transportation future is known as 'Complete Streets'.

City of Hopewell 2028 Comprehensive Plan

Since the 2015 resolution, the city has shown a marked shift towards prioritizing projects that emphasize recreation, mobility, and active lifestyles. The improved connections between residential and commercial cores has enhanced the pedestrian conditions in Hopewell's downtown and brought more foot traffic to the commercial center. The increased foot traffic came as a result of city investments towards better sidewalks, pedestrian signals, and curb cuts. The city has also been progressing on an ambitious bicycle improvement plan, funded in part through a Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant from the Virginia DOT.