The construction of the Myra Lane overpass proved essential to grant access to significant community landmarks, including the First Methodist Church of Martinsville—one of the area’s largest churches and childcare facilities—and the nation’s oldest private fish farm in the United States. The $5.5 million project significantly increased both safety and access to locations on either side of the interstate. Prior to the construction of the overpass, motorists were required to cross two lanes of high-speed traffic (either northbound or southbound) to gain access to each of the community facilities. Hundreds of local families relied on this access each day for their childcare, community service events, and school field trips to the fishery. The overpass improved connectivity for the community and broadened access to existing development, as well as creating opportunities for new development within the area.
America's Transportation Awards 