A discussion of the transportation infrastructure is one of the requirements of the Code of Virginia concerning Comprehensive Plans (See Appendix B). In addition to roadways, the transportation section includes a discussion of bicycle and pedestrian accommodations, railways, air and public transportation.

Transportation plays an important role in influencing growth patterns. The fact that a railroad was never built through Highland County is probably the main factor which has maintained its rural and "pristine" character. Furthermore, the fact that the closest access from Monterey to the Interstate highway system is either a 1 1/2 hour drive to the south (I-64) or a 1 hour drive to the east (I-81) is definitely a factor in locating any type of manufacturing business within the county. Because of the close interrelationship between transportation and land use patterns, this element of the Plan must be consistent with the goals for proposed land use.

As stated, there are no Interstate highways near Highland County. There are three State Highways in the county which are considered "primary roads". A primary road provides service which is relatively continuous and of relatively high traffic volume, long average trip length, high operating speed and high mobility importance.

The three primary roads are:

• U.S. 250: the main east-west artery through Highland County (and Monterey). U.S. 250 provides a direct connection to I-81 to the east and to I-79 in West Virginia.

• U.S. 220: runs north-south through the county (and Monterey) and provides a direct connection to I-64 south of Bath County.

•State Route 84: serves the southwestern portion of the county, running from West Virginia to its intersection with U.S. 220 three miles south of Monterey.

There are also more than 213 miles of secondary roads within the county which collect and distribute traffic between local roads and primary roads (Map #7). Most of these routes also possess outstanding scenic qualities and are listed in the Recreational Routes Appendix D.

Highland County participates in VDOT’s Six-year Improvement Program which designates expenditures for construction/improvements of the secondary road system. These monies are generally targeted for repair, paving and bridge improvements throughout the county. Appendix E provides a map and table showing the roads currently targeted by the Six-year Improvement Program for upgrades and maintenance.

Since 2001, traffic volumes on primary roads have been increasing. U.S. 220 north of Monterey has seen a 53.1% increase in volume, while U.S. 220 south of Monterey has experienced a 23.1% increase.

According to the 2000 Census, 73% of the work trips which originate in Highland County also end within the county. An additional 7% of commuter trips end in Bath County. Of the remaining 20%, most commuter trips end either within the Shenandoah Valley to the east, or within adjacent counties in West Virginia. Only about 12% of the workers in Highland County live outside of the Highland-Bath sub-region.

There are no operating railroads within Highland County. The nearest railroad is the CSX line in southeastern Bath County. Passenger rail service is available in Staunton.

There are no public aviation facilities in Highland county. One privately owned airstrip is located south of Monterey, however, this facility is not available for general or commercial aviation.

The nearest public airfield is Ingalls Field in Bath County. It can accommodate aircraft the size of a DC-9 and smaller. There is no scheduled commercial service, but general aviation and charter services are provided. For commercial service, either the Roanoke Regional Airport or the Charlottesville Regional Airport serve the needs of Highland County residents. The Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport at Weyer’s Cave also provides general aviation services.

There are no designated bikeways in the county, but the vast majority of the county’s roads are ideally suited to cyclists. Three popular loop trails are listed in the Appendix D, Recreational Routes. The "Mountain Mama Road Bike Challenge" has been held on the first Saturday in August annually since 2001. This event attracts over 200 cyclists from all over the country. The Challenge features four routes based on level of difficulty.

Highland County is graced with beautiful mountains, wooded areas and an abundance of outdoor recreation potential. Hiking is available throughout the county and is an important part of the tourist industry for the area. A list of hiking trails and "themed" routes including historic, birding and wildflower opportunities are provided in Appendix D.

The sidewalk system within the Town of Monterey is used by most residents who walk to complete their errands in town as well as by visitors following the historic walking tour. A new sidewalk project is currently underway which will provide connectivity from the Town to the Highland County School and the new recreation area adjacent to the school.

The Commonwealth of Virginia, in cooperation with the Commission of Outdoor Recreation, is authorized to designate existing roads of high scenic, aesthetic or cultural value as Scenic Byways. Local governments must adopt a resolution of support. See further discussion under the "Land Use" section of this plan.

Based on the aging population of Highland County, the issue of transportation for the elderly, disabled or economically disadvantaged residents who need transportation to medical facilities, shopping, jobs, etc. will become increasingly important in the near future. Expanding the Coordinated Area Transportation Services (CATS) program and providing scheduled transportation services are both issues facing the county. Additionally, providing a night-capable helipad for emergency medical transportation is also a need for Highland County.

With funding through VDOT’s Rural Transportation Planning Assistance Grant Program, the CSPDC prepared The Central Shenandoah Valley Bicycle Plan. The Plan identifies a regional network of on-road bikeways to connect and enhance the historic, cultural and recreational resources of the region. The Plan was adopted by Highland County in December 2005.

VDOT also publishes an official state bicycling map called "Bicycling in Virginia". No designated bike routes are shown in Highland County.