Life, Health, Safety, Accessibility, and Code Compliance Priority 2

ABOUT THE PROJECT

Efforts to improve the accessibility of Virginia Tech’s Blacksburg campus will continue with the installation of an American with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant pathway in the North Academic District. The pathway will create direct and accessible route from the Perry Street Garage and the Transit Center to the Drillfield. This pathway is the second of a series of high-priority mobility and accessibility improvements happening on the university’s Blacksburg campus. Construction on the first priority in the series — a pair of elevator towers in the North Academic District — was completed in August 2024.

Drawing on universal design principles, the pathway will be developed to encourage collaboration and conversation amongst its users. It will utilize a palette of materials consistent with Virginia Tech’s campus design principles including Hokie Stone retaining and seat walls, planting beds, bicycle racks, and Blacksburg campus standard light fixtures. Tables and chairs will be stationed at key points along the path. Native plantings consistent with the university’s ecological identity will also be incorporated.