We were recently asked to talk to a group about regionalism between the Roanoke and Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford MSAs. What would it take for the two to operate more like one region?
The simplest answer is to have more people working in one sub-region and living in the other.Attached is the formal process to combine MSAs… combine-msas. Other ways of making it happen include, but are not limited to:
- Participate in the NewVa Corridor Technology Council - Probably the most regionally focused organization in the two valleys.
- Complete the Smart Road- This will eliminate about 7 minutes from the commute and essentially moves the Corporate Research Center to the Shelor Motor Mile.
- More funding for the Smart Way Bus - Some current routes are at capacity with people standing on the commutes. This alternative public transportation model is the future. Invest now.
- Development between Salem and Christiansburg- Terrain is an issue, but there are some opportunities around Dixie Caverns and Ironto. Plus, the new Intermodal facility should foster this growth.
- Expand Interstate 81 - Add more lanes for a more enjoyable and safe drive.
The earliest an official join MSA would occur would be 2020. There are at least four other ways in which regionalism can be achieved. We will look at these in the future.