The Virginia Department of Transportation will meet with residents three times this month to discuss enhancing the road system with greater access for people on foot or bike.

VDOT sees the sessions as part of a continuing dialogue with cycling advocates and others who support cycle lanes, signs, stripes and other forms of support for nonmotorized transportation.

VDOT said its policy is "to ensure that bicycling, walking and other modes of non-motorized transportation receive the same consideration as motorized transportation in the planning, design, construction and operation of Virginia's transportation network," a news release said.

The policy is having an impact, said VDOT spokeswoman Heidi Coy.

For instance, bike and pedestrian amenities are planned on U.S. 221 near Cotton Hill Road in Roanoke County. Bike lanes were added last summer when Hollins Road was widened.

VDOT officials will be present to explain the policy and listen to residents react, share ideas and offer feedback to the state transportation agency. No reservation is required to attend.

The meetings, which will run from 5:30 to 7 p.m., will occur on the following schedule:

n March 13: Montgomery County Government Center, 755 Roanoke St., Christiansburg;

n March 18: VDOT Salem District Office, 731 Harrison Ave., Salem;

n March 19: Henry County Administration Building, 3300 Kings Mountain Road, Martinsville.