Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and the City of Richmond’s Department of Public Works have started a joint pilot program to improve intersection safety on VCU’s downtown campuses. The project is scheduled to begin in November 2025. It will add left-turn hardening measures at four intersections: Franklin Street at Laurel Street, Franklin Street at Belvidere Street, Marshall Street at 11th Street, and Marshall Street at 13th Street.
Left-turn hardening uses modular curbs and pavement striping. These features slow down vehicles making left turns and prevent drivers from cutting corners. The goal is to lower the risk of crashes involving vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. Clarence T. Hunter, Jr., VCU Chief of Police, said the partnership aims to make streets safer for everyone.
The pilot follows a 2023 pedestrian safety study by VCU and the City. Results from the program will help guide future safety improvements, especially at intersections on Richmond’s High Injury Network…