Garbage pick-up takes place on several of the alleys. Near the campus, alleys provide an alternate path for pedestrian or bicycle transport. Alleys are also used as traffic short-cuts. Some alleys exist as an extension of a backyard because they were never improved. On commercial lots, loading functions can take place in alleys rather than occurring from the main thoroughfares.
Alleys are inappropriate for use as primary access to properties.
Due to the topography of Blacksburg, grades can be steep. Alleys are not eligible for funding from the state for improvement or maintenance. Many alleys have no provisions for a vehicle to turn around at dead ends. Maintenance for alleys takes a lower priority than maintenance on primary streets. Before Blacksburg had a subdivision ordinance, a number of subdivisions were developed in which streets were platted but not built.