Tom Ewing, January 2, 2025
This project has many points of origin, some of which will be explored in this blog in the months leading up to 2026. One point of origin is a four mile section of Route 76 immediately north of Blacksburg, Virginia, where Virginia Tech is located. Because this section is just a few miles from campus, with three roads leading out Blacksburg, it is a favorite for recreational cyclists seeking longer rides along Route 76 and adjoining roads. When I began riding recreationally about a decade ago, this section was one of many which prompted me to think about ways to connect my interests in cycling and local history, which over a few years led to this podcast of historical episodes along Route 76 in Virginia.
One particular point of interest along this section illustrates the kinds of historical moments and themes embedded along Route 76. The Virginian Railway Underpass is a narrow one way tunnel that allows vehicles to pass under the railroad tracks used by Norfolk Southern railroad (see photo). The tunnel is about half a mile west of where Lusters Gate Road (Route 76) intersects with Den Hill Road. For a cyclist, it’s a bit unnerving to pedal directly towards oncoming traffic, knowing that the tunnel only has room for one vehicle, but in my experience, drivers have always been courteous (but it’s definitely a good reminder of why riding with a front light even during the day is a good idea). The bridge is historical, as it was constructed in 1906, almost one hundred twenty years ago, and is listed by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources. Over the course of the early twentieth century, this tunnel transitioned from use primarily by horses and carriages into a route for cars, trucks, and bicycles. The railroad, by contrast, has been using this route continuously in much the same way for more than a century. Almost fifty years ago, when the Bikecentennial passed through this section of southwest Virginia in 1976, the tunnel presumably looked very similar, and required the same caution as drivers and cyclists approach from either direction. Riding through this tunnel, either on a long distance trip or out for a day ride from somewhere in the community, is a good reminder of how Route 76 connects themes and people across historical periods.
Virginian Railway Underpass, view to the east, Lusters Gate Road (Route 76), north of Blacksburg VA
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