Abernethy wants to extend the scope of the study area beyond the interchange to factor in how what happens there impacts areas as far east as the eastern edge of Smithville, west to Bethel Church Road, north to the lake and south to Westmoreland Road — and vice-versa. He told commissioners the goal is to conduct a comprehensive study “to show real life in land use and building placement and to understand right-of-way issues and transportation issues in these areas.”

The cost, he estimates, is between $20,000 and $60,000, depending on how detailed the final report needs to be. Commissioner Gilroy suggested the focus be narrowed closer to the interchange area, suggesting the key issue is redevelopment of the interchange rather than the overall development scheme of a wider area, most of which has already been developed.

Gilroy agreed with Abernethy that development community involvement up front was key to the process because its members are more aware of what can be done in the unique environment posed by the total redesign of an interstate exit, and the impact new traffic patterns will have on the landscape.

“That can quickly gain more traction than at hiring some consultant from Virginia and having him throw his tool kit at it,” Gilroy said.