CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (CBS19 NEWS) -- Local businesses along Hillsdale Drive said they are looking forward to more traffic after the opening of the new extension on Friday.
After years of planning and construction, the extension bridges a gap between Charlottesville and Albemarle County.
It also gives drivers an alternate route to use instead of Route 29.
The extension includes a new stoplight and roundabout at the Seminole Square shopping center.
Businesses there, as well as Senior Center, said while construction was an inconvenience, the new road provides bigger economic opportunity.
"It's going to drive more traffic to the shopping center, make it easier for people to find businesses that are in here with us, and hopefully allow people to find us a little easier," said Adam Dowdell, director of operations for University Tire and Auto.
"We're hoping the additional transportation modes such as the bike path, walking path, sidewalks, and bus stop will make it a more convenient place for members to come to the center," said Scott Hillis, director of finance for Senior Center.
The new road also includes a shared-use path for bikes and pedestrians.
Plans for an official ribbon cutting have been made for early 2018.
