Officials are taking a long look at State Route 5, which they say will likely need improvements due to expected growth in the areas it connects. A state-funded study is underway of the corridor from Seventh Street in downtown Richmond to state Route 895 in eastern Henrico.

The area has historically been primarily low-density residential, industrial and rural, but that is expected to change. "In 15 to 20 years, you are going to have a ton of development there, and you are going to need to address traffic," said Lee Yolton, principal planner at the Richmond Regional Planning District Commission. 

The goal is for infrastructure improvements to keep pace with development, heading off potential problems with heavy traffic. Area homeowners will benefit from any improvements, which will make commuting more convenient for them and make their homes more attractive to future homebuyers -- helping to boost property values.