The controversy over Interstate 73 is focusing on U.S. 220 as the deadline draws near for public comment on options and routes. Most people agree that a better road is needed between Roanoke and Martinsville because U.S. 220 is dangerous and, in the Roanoke area, congested.
People disagree sharply, however, on how much better the road needs to be.
Many voices in the business community favor a new interstate to boost the region's economic growth. Friday is the last day people can register their thoughts with the Virginia Department of Transportation. After that, nearly a decade's worth of comments from landowners and business leaders, plus engineering studies and environmental analysis, will be gathered up and presented to the Commonwealth Transportation Board. The result could be a decision by April on whether to build a new interstate and the route it would use. At stake, some people say, is local economic viability.