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Fall 2017 Quarterly Newsletter
October 27th, 2017
Dear Blue Ridge District residents,
  
Being that we're nearly halfway through our term, I want to thank my colleagues for consistently working together in a positive manner to ensure the best interest of Loudoun County. While we don't agree on everything, we agree on much, and when we disagree, we agree to disagree and move on without grudges and with continued communication. I especially want to thank my colleagues for their continued support of the Blue Ridge District!
  
(myself, Umstattd, Saines, Buona, Meyer, Randall, Letourneau, Higgins, Volpe)
 
I also want to thank my staff (Shevaun, Rachael and Pam) for their dedication and commitment to providing the best possible service to our residents!

That said, I hope everyone is ready for Fall and that you find this update helpful and informative. Please let me know if there is ever anything I can do for you.

All my best,
  
Tony
  
(left to right: Pam, myself, Shevaun and Rachael)
Transportation Improvement Project Updates
Traffic congestion relief, enhanced connectivity and improved safety are some of my top priorities. As such, my staff and I have worked with my colleagues, county staff, VDOT, developers, and others, to fund several new projects and to accelerate many previously planned and much needed improvements for the Blue Ridge District!

EASTERN BLUE RIDGE DISTRICT PROJECTS
 
Belmont Ridge Rd (BRR): These projects widen Belmont Ridge Rd from two to four lanes and install traffic lights at critical intersections. See below for details:
  • Gloucester Pkwy to Hay Rd: This project widens BRR to four lanes from Hay Rd to Gloucester Pkwy. The project also constructs a bridge over the W&OD Trail and a direct connection from the shared-use path along BRR to the W&OD Trail. It also constructs a parking lot for trail users. In this quarter, BRR improvements continue with additional asphalt pavement and the installation of a sound wall along the northbound roadway. This work will continue into the next quarter as well as construction of bridge substructure for the southbound bridge over the W&OD Trail.  Project completion is scheduled for December of 2018.
  • Truro Parish Dr to Northstar Blvd (south of Croson): This project designs and constructs two additional lanes of BRR from Truro Parish Dr to Northstar Blvd. 100% design approval is awaiting Building and Development approval. The utility relocation plan and estimate is moving forward as originally designed. All appraisals have been received and plats are complete. Right-of-way acquisition offers are currently being made and the project is scheduled to go to bid in Spring or Summer of 2018. Staff is currently working with Dominion and Loudoun Water to bring resolution to an impacted property. Project completion is scheduled for Fall of 2020.
  • Belmont Ridge and Northstar Blvd Signal: Construction to begin October 23, 2017, thru March of 2018. An interim safety solution is currently in place at the intersection. The long term solution (full access traffic signal) was approved in July of 2016. Bids were received on April 20, 2017, which identified the need for supplemental funding in order to complete the project. On June 13, 2017, the Finance Committee recommended approval of necessary supplemental funding which was approved by the full Board on June 22, 2017. Notice to Proceed was issued in August of 2017. Soil samples for pole installation have already been completed.  construction at the intersection of Belmont Ridge Road and Northstar Boulevard is scheduled to begin on or about Monday, October 30, 2017. The project includes the construction of a new traffic signal, pavement markings, pedestrian crosswalks and ramps.  Electronic message boards will be in place on or about Monday, October 23, 2017, to advise motorists of the upcoming construction activities.  

    The scheduled work will involve temporary lane closures and flagging operations.  Lane closures will occur between the hours of 9:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Friday. Construction activities and the associated traffic management may also occur on weekends, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., pending approval from the VDOT.  Drivers are advised to watch for signage, lane closures and flagging operations during the construction of this project, which is expected to continue through March of 2018 (weather-permitting). 
  • Belmont Ridge Rd & Shreveport Dr Signal: Construction is complete and the signal was activated on September 6, 2017, in conjunction with the full opening of Shreveport Dr and Loudoun County Pkwy.
  • Shreveport to Evergreen Mills Rd: This is a new project I was able to get added to the CIP during last years CIP process with funding in FY22 and future years. This project widens the BRR from Shreveport Rd to Evergreen Mills Rd, from two to four lanes. 
Belmont Ridge Bridge Over the Greenway: The County's long term plan is to widen the bridge and add pedestrian accommodations and a sound wall; however, VDOT is making progress on an interim improvement project which includes restriping of the existing bridge and reconstructing a portion of Belmont Ridge Rd to accommodate four lanes of travel. Per the attached drawing, the on ramp/exit ramp for the eastbound lane of the Greenway will be reconstructed. In August of 2017 where the project was identified for acceleration to enable 2019 construction rather than the original plan for 2020. Currently, the project completion date is unknown.
 


Braddock Rd & Summerall Dr/Supreme Dr Signal: This project will construct a traffic signal and turn lanes at the intersection of Braddock Rd and Summerall Dr/Supreme Dr. The missing half section of Braddock Rd near the intersection will be widened from two to four lanes. Notice to proceed was issued in March of 2017. The first phase of design plans were received by VDOT and the County in August of 2017.  A public information meeting is anticipated to occur this Fall. I will continue to provide additional updates as they become available.

Braddock Rd/Trailhead Dr/Grassland Grove Dr, All-Way-Stop Signs: My office requested a VDOT traffic study be conducted for possible installation of an all-way-stop at the intersection due to increased safety concerns resulting from the recent connection of Trailhead Dr from Braddock Rd to Rt 50, and the upcoming opening of Willard Middle School scheduled to open in the Fall of 2018. Unfortunately, the intersection failed to meet VDOT justification for the requested all-way-stop. However, on a positive note, we have asked LCPS to include this intersection as part of its HS-9 scoping process for possible future upgrade to a roundabout or signal. 

Claiborne Pkwy Missing Link (Croson Ln - Ryan Rd): This project constructs Claiborne Pkwy as a four lane median divided roadway from Ryan Rd to Croson Ln with a traffic signal at the intersections of Claiborne and Croson, and Claiborne and Ryan. Traffic Signal submittals are pending VDOT review and approval. The project also includes construction of a 6' wide concrete sidewalk along the east side of Claiborne and a 10' asphalt trail on the west side. Project construction has begun and remains on schedule with completion planned for late Summer of 2018.
 
 
Claiborne Pkwy & Loudoun County Pkwy Signal: A signal at this intersection has been identified as critical upon completion and opening of the Claiborne Pkwy missing link (Croson - Ryan) currently scheduled for late Summer of 2018. As such, I have requested that a traffic signal warrant study based on future conditions be completed as soon as possible. I f the study meets warrant, my office will work to accelerate construction of the signal and will provide additional updates as they become available.

Creighton Rd (Northstar Blvd - Evergreen Mills Rd): This segment was constructed by the Brambleton developer who opened the road to traffic on July 1, 2017 .  Signals for both the Evergreen Mills Rd and Northstar intersections have been approved by VDOT based on warrant studies requested by my office. See below for signal details:
  • Evergreen Mills Rd/Creighton Rd/Fleetwood Rd Signal: At my request, a warrant study was completed ahead of schedule and the intersection was able to meet warrant based on future conditions which VDOT does not usually allow. The signal is currently in design phase and is scheduled to be installed and activated on or about October of 2018. I will continue to work with the Brambleton developer and VDOT to accelerate this project in hopes of an earlier completion date. 
  • Northstar Blvd & Creighton Rd Signal: At my request, a warrant study was completed ahead of schedule and the intersection was able to meet warrant based on future conditions which VDOT does not usually allow. The signal is currently in design phase and is scheduled to be installed and activated on or about October of 2018. I will continue to work with the Brambleton developer and VDOT to accelerate this project in hopes of an earlier completion date.
Note: As an interim safety measure at the Northstar Blvd & Creighton Rd intersection, as it is the primary access point for two schools and ongoing residential development, I have asked the Brambleton developer to fund and install an all-way-stop until the signal is installed and operational. The Brambleton developer has agreed to do so once they are off bond with sections of Northstar and Creighton. As such, I am working with the Brambleton Developer and VDOT in an effort to accelerate the bond release process. In the meantime, the Brambleton developer has submitted design plans to VDOT for the two additional stop signs and updated road markings necessary for the all-way-stop. It is my hope that this process will continue to push forward and that we will have the all-way-stop signs and updated road markings in place within the next few months. I would like to thank the Brambleton developer for working with me on this request as it is going to end up costing them somewhere in the vicinity of $25,000 to do so.
 
Dulles West Blvd (future segment located west of Northstar Blvd): This segment is currently shown on the Countywide Transportation Plan (CTP); however, it has not been funded in the County's Capital Improvement Plan. For the following reasons, I do not believe the addition of this segment is necessary, nor do I feel it would serve the greater good for Loudoun or area residents:
  • The logical alignment is obstructed by a large existing lake sometimes referred to as Quail Run Pond. This would force a northward turn in the alignment between established communities and would negatively impact dozens of existing residents.
  • The alignment would need to cross below the existing Quail Run Pond dam which would raise additional engineering, flooding and environmental concerns.
  • To the extent that additional clearing and grading would remove tree coverage and future open space areas, leaving the area undisturbed would allow for buffers between existing communities.  
  • The commercially zoned properties closer to Route 50 that could possibly benefit from this segment would likely not be served by the ultimate alignment.
  • Current and future traffic can be sufficiently accommodated by other existing and planned area transportation network improvements.
For these reasons, I will continue to move forward with my request the remove this future segment of roadway from the CTP as part of the Envision Loudoun process. I am hopeful that my colleagues on the Board will support this effort and I appreciate the community support I have received from Willowsford residents.


Brambleton Frontage Widening of Evergreen Mills Rd: The Brambleton developer is proffered to widen a section of Evergreen Mills Rd along its frontage from Creighton Rd to an area south of Ryan Rd by September of 2018. This will include widening of the northbound lane only.  

Alignment for Evergreen Mills Rd & Shreveport Dr: I recently worked with VDOT and the Brambleton developer to finalize the below pictured alignment for Shreveport Dr and Evergreen Mills Rd (EMR). This alignment will allow for the full use of both roadways into the future. VDOT and County staff have approved all aspects of this project. The Brambleton developer is actively working with NOVEC to coordinate the necessary right-of-way and utility relocation for this alignment. I will provide additional updates as they become available.

It should be noted that there were previous plans to cul-de-sac EMR upon the full opening of Shreveport Dr. This would have allowed only local residential traffic on EMR from Belmont Ridge Rd to the EMR cul-de-sac near Shreveport and Somerset Crossing Pl. I opposed that plan and am pleased to have found a viable solution that will keep all roads connected and open for use in order to reduce traffic congestion to the maximum extent possible.

 
Evergreen Mills Rd Repaving Project: VDOT recently finished repaving Evergreen Mills Rd between Ryan Rd and Loudoun County Parkway using left over funds from its 2016/2017 snow removal fund. I'm grateful to VDOT for choosing to improve this segment as it was in extremely poor condition with numerous potholes, crumbling edges and barely visible road markings.
 
Evergreen Mills Rd & Stone Springs Blvd Turn Lane:  I made a motion, which was approved by the Board, for county staff to identify possible low cost spot improvements such as the addition of an eastbound turn lane as shown below (see yellow highlight). If approved, this improvement will increase safety and reduce traffic congestion until this segment of Evergreen Mills Rd is widened from two to four lanes which is currently scheduled for completion in January of 2023. I was recently advised of a septic issue that could impact the project for which County staff is investigating. Upon completion, I anticipate staff will report back to the Board with a proposed schedule and cost estimate for this project. 
 
 
Evergreen Mills Rd & Watson Rd Safety Audit: The Board recently approved a joint Board Member Initiative brought forward by myself and Catoctin District Supervisor Geary Higgins, to, "Identify funds to engage a transportation safety consultant to develop a scope of work and plan to conduct a safety audit of Route 621 - Evergreen Mills Road between Battlefield Parkway and Loudoun County Parkway, and Route 860 - Watson Road between Evergreen Mills Road and Route 50, and return to a future Board of Supervisors meeting with a cost estimate." Originally, this Item was limited to Evergreen Mills Road; however, when making the Motion I added Watson Road. I want to thank my colleagues for their strong and unanimous support of this important initiative!  The Evergreen Mills Road safety study scope of work and budget will be discussed at the December 5th Board meeting. Click here for more information. I will keep you informed as progress continues.

Evergreen Mills Rd & Watson Rd Intersection: In September of 2016, my office identified this intersection as one of the most unsafe in our District. Since that time I've worked feverishly with VDOT and County Staff to identify, fund and implement immediate, short, and long term safety improvements. To date, we have identified and implemented several immediate and short term improvements (more to come); added a new project to the county's Six-Year Capitol Improvement Project (CIP) to fund construction and possible re-alignment of the Evergreen Mills Rd (EMR) and Watson Rd, and EMR and Reservoir Rd intersections, with the goal of improving traffic flow and safety (currently funded in FY22. I will try to accelerate funding in this years CIP process); and began the process of conducting safety audits of both EMR and Watson Road (see above, "Evergreen Mills Rd & Watson Rd Safety Audit" update). As many of you know, on September 8, 2017, we suffered the tragic loss of Erin Kaplan to an accident at this intersection. While the results of the accident investigation have yet to be released by the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office, please know that I remain committed as ever to identify, fund, accelerate and implement both immediate and long term improvements. Click here and here for recent updates. As always, I will keep you informed as additional information becomes available.

Loudoun County Pkwy & Shreveport Dr Signal: This signal is complete and was activated on September 6, 2017, in conjunction with the opening of the remaining portions of Shreveport Dr and Loudoun County Pkwy.

Loudoun County Pkwy & Creighton Rd/Evergreen Ridge Rd Signal:  This signal is complete and was activated on September 6, 2017, in conjunction with the opening of the remaining portions of Shreveport Dr and Loudoun County Pkwy.

Loudoun County Pkwy Extension from Brambleton to Rt 606: This project is complete! On September 6, 2017,  the Rt 606/Loudoun County Pkwy intersection, along with multiple supportive road segments and traffic signals were opened to traffic. Progress continues toward full build out of the Rt 606/Loudoun County Pkwy intersection; however, the initial phased opening has already been shown to have provided much needed traffic congestion relief to area residents! 
 
Many thanks to VDOT, NVTA, MWAA, Shirley Contracting, Dewberry Engineering, the Brambleton & Toll Brother's developers, and County staff for working together to provide these improvements as fast as possible! 
 
 
Mooreview Pkwy Missing Link:  Currently under construction and on schedule - This project constructs Mooreview Pkwy as a four lane median divided roadway from Croson Ln to Old Ryan Rd. It will also include a shared use path on one side of the road and a sidewalk on the other in order to improve access in the area. Construction began on April 18, 2017. Phase 1 and 2 erosion and sediment control installation are complete. Cut and fill operations are underway. Fabrication of the box culvert and installation of storm structures have begun. Project completion is anticipated for Spring of 2018. 

Note: This project is not in the Blue Ridge District (BRD); however, it will be heavily utilized by BRD residents and is a project that I am frequently asked about.


Northstar Blvd (Rt 50 - Shreveport Dr):   This project has been identified as a top priority for the County. It will construct an 8,800' section of Northstar Blvd between Rt 50 and Shreveport Dr.   Last year the County secured $8.2 million in state funding which will be used for design and a portion of the right-of-way acquisition phase. Scope of work has been issued for the top design firm the county selected for this project. The contract is to design and obtain construction support services for the extension of Northstar Boulevard from Route 50 to Shreveport Drive and will include the following services:
 
Land and Utility Surveys, Base Mapping, Geotechnical Investigations, Traffic Data Collection, Roadway Alignment Studies, Environmental Services and potential Wetlands Permitting, Roadway Engineering/ Design Services, Bridge and Culvert Design Services, Landscape Architecture Services, Traffic Signal or Roundabout Design, Signage & Striping Plans, Maintenance of Traffic Plans, Public Meeting Support, Virginia Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (VPDES) & Stormwater Compliance, Preparation of Right-of-Way & Easement Plats, Bridge/Roadway Construction Plans, and Bidding and Construction Phase Support Services. Dewberry Consultants, LLC has been identified as the top ranked firm and the County is currently in negotiations to finalize the cost and terms and conditions of the contract.
 
The estimated cost of the above services is  $8,000,000 with funding coming from State Revenue Sharing and Regional and Local Northern Virginia Transportation Authority (NVTA). Once VDOT approves the scope of work, the project will go to the Finance Committee as early as November of 2017 followed by the full Board in December of 2017 with a notice to proceed issued around January of 2018. While progress on the design and right-of-way acquisition phases continue, the Board and county staff are actively working to secure additional funding for completion of the remaining phases of the project. I will continue to provide updates as they become available.    
 
Northstar Blvd (Rt 50 - Tall Cedars Pkwy):  This project will construct a 4,300' section of Northstar Blvd between Rt 50 and Tall Cedars Pkwy. 100% design plan comments were received and are being addressed. 100% bridge plans were submitted on May 25, 2017, and have been resubmitted for comments. A Signal Warrant Study is being completed for the intersection of Marrwood Drive. Appraisals are being prepared for necessary right-of-way acquisition. Approval and preparation of the construction bid documents are pending completion of right-of-way acquisition and utility relocation, it is anticipated that construction advertisement will occur in Fall of 2018. Resubmission of the bridge plans occurred on August 8, 2017, thus CLOMR (FEMA Floodplain approval) and final VDOT bridge design approval is pending. Construction is scheduled to begin in March of 2019. Construction completion is scheduled for March of 2021.
Route 28 Improvements Completed: Drivers on Rt 28 are getting much needed congestion relief due to recent completion of a widening project which added a fourth southbound lane from Waxpool Rd to Rt 50, and northbound improvements from McLearen Rd to the Dulles Toll Rd. While not in my District, this project is providing much needed relief to many Blue Ridge District residents!
 
Rt 50 & Everfield Dr Roundabout: I'm working hard to maintain the rural, historic and scenic character of Rt 50 west of Fleetwood Rd; therefore, I prefer the installation of roundabouts or other traffic calming measures as opposed to traffic signals whenever possible throughout this corridor. I saw first-hand with the previous signal removal at Rt 15 and Rt 50 (Gilbert's Corner), how a roundabout can reduce traffic congestion and create a safe and continuous traffic flow. As such, I put forth a motion which was approved by the Board directing staff to:
  1. Develop for Board consideration an agreement for the Willowsford developer to participate in the design and construction of a roundabout;
  2. Incorporate a roundabout at this location in the ongoing revisions to the Countywide Transportation Plan (CTP);
  3. Develop a cost estimate for construction of a roundabout at this location to be considered in FY19's Capital Improvement Program discussion.
In August of 2017, the Board unanimously supported my motion to approve a Memorandum of Agreement between Willowsford and the Board of Supervisors which provides for the design of a roundabout at this intersection and a cash contribution toward the construction of the roundabout instead of the installation of a traffic signal. VDOT now considers roundabouts intersection improvements removing the need for these items to be added to the CTP. I was successful in having this item added to the 6 year CIP for funding in FY18 discussions and will attempt to accelerate the project if possible. I will continue to provide additional updates as they become available.

Rt 50 & Fleetwood Rd Signal Approved: VDOT Warrant study approved - A previous Warrant study failed last year; however, it was conducted prior to the paving of Fleetwood Rd from Rt 50 to Evergreen Mills Rd and prior to the Boards approval of the Corpus Christi Parish application which includes a proffered signal at this intersection. Based on increased traffic from the paving of Fleetwood, I requested a new warrant study be conducted which resulted in VDOT approval of the traffic signal warrant. As stated, funding and construction of the signal is tied to the Corpus Christi Parish (phase 2) approval; however, a construction date for the proffered signal is unknown and could be several years down the road. Based on that information and the fact that the intersection is utilized by both Blue Ridge and Dulles District residents, my office and Supervisor Letourneau's office worked with county staff and VDOT to identify a way to have this project accelerated in order to get it done as soon as possible. I'm happy to report that VDOT has identified and allocated FY19 funding for this signal! They have also agreed to oversee design and construction for the project. In order to accelerate progress, VDOT will use outside resources to initiate pre-engineering activities prior to the funding becoming available in July of 2018. Full design will begin once FY19 funding becomes available in July of 2018. Project completion is anticipated for mid to late 2019 depending on right-of-way acquisition, utility relocation, and weather.

Rt 50 & Trailhead Dr (formerly Lenah Rd) Roundabout:  My office has been making efforts to proceed toward implementation of a roundabout at Rt 50 and Trailhead Dr as the level of service at the intersection is degrading and this is in the Rt 50 Traffic Calming Corridor. The Board took the first step in this process by adding the item to "Transaction" thus, allowing it to compete for state funding. NEPA, and formal public involvement for this roundabout have already been completed. VDOT anticipates that it will oversee design and build of this project. I plan to add this item as a new project to the CIP in the coming months and will need the support of my colleagues to do so. I  appreciate the support shown thus far from the Willowsford developer, County staff, VDOT and area residents! I will keep you informed as additional updates become available.

Rt 606 Widening & the Rt 606/LCP/Arcola Blvd Intersection: This project widens the existing two lane roadway (one lane each way) along Rt 606 to four lanes (two lanes each way) between the Greenway and Loudoun County Pkwy (LCP). It also includes construction of an intersection at the Rt 606/LCP/Arcola Blvd intersection, and the addition of a third southbound lane on LCP from the Rt 606 intersection to Dulles West Blvd. The project also includes bicycle and pedestrian accommodations.

VDOT plans to open the Rt 606 Widening project and the Rt 606/LCP/Arcola Blvd intersection in the following 3 phases:

Phase 1 (Opened September 6, 2017) - COMPLETE!!!
  • Westbound traffic on Rt 606 turning south onto LCP will be served by three left turn lanes. Traffic will have to merge back down to two lanes after making the turn onto southbound LCP.
  • Northbound traffic on LCP wishing to travel eastbound onto Rt 606 will be served by a single lane ramp. Traffic continuing eastbound on Rt 606 will be served by one lane all the way to the Greenway.
  • Northbound traffic on LCP wishing to continue northbound through the intersection will have to briefly merge into a single lane which will expand into two lanes prior to entering the intersection. Those two lanes will then continue through the     intersection.
  • Southbound traffic on LCP turning east onto Rt 606 will be served by two left turn lanes. Traffic will have to merge back down to one lane after making the turn onto eastbound Rt 606.
  • Southbound traffic on LCP wishing to continue southbound through the intersection will have two lanes to do so.
  • Arcola Blvd will remain closed to traffic.
  
Phase 2 (December 2017)
  • Westbound traffic on Rt 606 turning south onto LCP will be served by three left turn lanes. Traffic will no longer have to merge down to two lanes after the turn.
  • Northbound traffic on LCP wishing to travel eastbound onto Rt 606 will be served by a two lane ramp.
  • Northbound traffic on LCP wishing to continue northbound through the intersection will have two lanes to do so. Traffic will no longer have to merge down to one lane prior to the intersection.
  • Southbound traffic on LCP turning east onto Rt 606 will be served by two left turn lanes through the intersection. Traffic will no longer have to immediately merge back down to one lane after making the turn onto eastbound Rt 606.
  • Southbound traffic on LCP wishing to continue southbound through the intersection will have two lanes to do so. Once through the intersection traffic will have three lanes available.
  • Rt 606 will open in its new four lane configuration (2 lanes each way) at the northern and southern ends of the project. The middle section (Commerce Center Ct - the area just east of the intersection) will remain two lanes (1 lane each way).
  • Arcola Blvd will remain closed to traffic.
Phase 3 (August 2018)
  • The Rt 606 Widening project and Rt 606/LCP/Arcola Blvd intersection complete and open to traffic.
  • The portion of Arcola Blvd abutting Rt 606 will be constructed as a four lane median divided roadway with turn lanes to and from LCP.
Ryan Road (Northstar - Evergreen Mills Road): This section of roadway receives heavy traffic. While the current level of use may slightly decrease from the recent openings of segments of Loudoun County Pkwy, Creighton and Shreveport Roads, my office has worked with VDOT to better maintain the roadway in order to address safety concerns such as potholes, poor drainage and crumbling shoulders. I'm grateful for VDOT's cooperation to re-address failed spot patches and will continue to monitor the area until proffered improvements, to include road widening and repaving by the Brambleton developer, occurs. I will keep you informed as additional updates become available.
 
Trailhead Dr (formerly Lenah Rd): This project extended Trailhead Drive from Foxtail Fields Dr to Lenah Rd, which then continues to Rt 50. The project is now complete and opened to traffic. As part of the Trailhead Rd extension, its connection to Lenah was completed in such a way that it aligned directly with the northern end of Lenah Rd prior to Lenah's connection to Rt 50. The has now been renamed Trailhead Dr all the way from Braddock Rd to Rt 50. This has created a new north/south connection from Braddock Rd to Rt 50 for area residents which, along with area growth, has resulted in the additional use of Trailhead Dr between Braddock Rd and Rt 50. As such, I am working to gain approval for a future roundabout at the intersection of Rt 50 and Trailhead Dr, and have asked VDOT to conduct a study for the installation of an all way stop at the intersection of Braddock Rd and Trailhead Dr. The intersection of Braddock Rd and Trailhead Dr is also being studied for the possibility of a future upgrade to a traffic signal or roundabout as part of LCPS's High School 9 scoping.

WESTERN BLUE RIDGE DISTRICT PROJECTS
 
Allder School Rd: This project designs and paves Allder School Rd from Woodgrove Rd to Hillsboro Rd and includes a bridge over the South Fork of the Catoctin Creek. The project was delayed due to additional time required to negotiate utility relocation work with Dominion Virginia Power (DVP) and added infrastructure scope of work; however, I was also able to secure $345,000 in supplemental funding to get the project moving again. The Board awarded a construction contract to General Excavation on May 2, 2017. The Notice to Proceed was issued June 20, 2017, and a Ground breaking Ceremony occurred on July 25, 2017.  The project is currently 20% complete. Completion of all required utility relocation is planned for this month and VDOT and LCPS have approved the projects request for an early detour on the road to allow for accelerated bridge construction. Bridge completion is expected to occur in April of 2018. A non-local traffic detour is currently in place to help accelerate progress and provide increased safety for construction crews. Overall project completion is scheduled for Spring of 2019.
 
Fields Farm Park Rd (secondary entrance to Woodgrove HS & Mountain View ES): This project will provide a secondary entrance to Woodgrove High School and Mountain View Elementary School via a new two lane roadway that will extend from Hillsboro Rd and connect to existing Mayfair Crown Dr where it currently dead ends to the west. The southern end of the existing access road from Allder School Rd to Mountain View ES and Woodgrove HS will be extended to connect to the new Fields Farm Park Rd just west of its connection with Mayfair Crown Drive. The original plan was for LCPS to manage extension of the access road on its property and the County to manage all work on its property; however, LCPS requested that the County manage both portions of the project. Design work is expected to conclude in
Spring of 2018. The County continues to work with the Town of Purcellville regarding annexation to ensure that the entirety of the new road will be annexed into the Town. 100% design plans were submitted to VDOT and the County's Building & Development office on August 31, 2017.

Greggsville Rd:  Greggsville Rd was identified by the previous Board of Supervisors as a priority road paving project in the County's Six Year Secondary Road Priority List and VDOT's Six Year Secondary Road Construction Plan under the Rural Rustic Road paving program.  Rural Rustic Roads are paved at a width based on reduced and flexible standards that leave trees, vegetation, side slopes and open drainage abutting the roadway undisturbed to the maximum extent possible without compromising public safety.  A good way to visualize paving under this program is to envision an existing gravel road being paved with almost no other disturbances to existing conditions.  This year, after receiving a petition from the residents on the lower half of Greggsville Road (between North Fork and Jeb Stuart), I worked with residents, the surrounding community and my colleagues on the Board to form a plan to pave only the northern portion of Greggsville Road (between Telegraph Springss and North Fork) and leave the bottom portion unpaved.  The plan also included a small section of additional pavement to connect the northern end of Greggsville Rd to existing pavement on Telegraph Springs Rd. I am happy to have worked with the community to identify an improved plan for this project that is supported by the overwhelming majority of residents, the Loudoun Equine Alliance, and Loudoun's Rural Road Coalition! VDOT has already began work and anticipates project completion by the end of 2017.

Hillsboro Rd (widening of current narrow alternating lane section): I have been working with VDOT for over a year to identify a solution for widening the short section of Hillsboro Rd where vehicles currently have to stop to allow oncoming traffic to pass due to the lack of two full lanes of traffic over the creek crossing. I'm pleased to report that VDOT has identified an approved design and necessary state funding to widen the crossing to one full lane each way so that vehicles will no longer have to yield to oncoming traffic. VDOT advised me today that the project should be complete by January of 2018 (weather permitting).
 
Rt 7/Rt 690 Interchange: This project constructs an interchange at the intersection of Rt 7 and Rt 690. As part of the FY17 budget process I was able to accelerate the County's funding request plan for this project by one year from FY22 to FY21.  The Finance Committee approved a design services contract on November 15, 2016. The design contractor submitted NEPA documents to VDOT on June 30, 2017, and began working with VDOT to update the documents based on initial feedback.  Inspection of the existing Rt 690 bridge over Rt 7 confirmed that expansion of the existing bridge would provide insufficient clearance, and that the existing Rt 7 pavement thickness fails to meet current VDOT standards. DTCI and Dewberry are working to determine whether the existing Rt 690 bridge will need to be replaced (which may be supported within the current budget and construction schedule) in order to facilitate operation of the planned interchange and to proceed with design. Most recently, the project received full funding via a Smart Scale award of $5.5 million from the Commonwealth Transportation Board of Virginia. This is great news as the project is now fully funded; however, this type of funding "federalizes" the project which will result in an 18-24 month delay to project construction now planned to begin in FY23. The delay is due to the additional processes and layers of approval that come with a federalized project. It should be noted that the previous construction schedule, like all projects, was based on anticipated funding from various funding sources - most of which are not under local control - which are awarded on a competitive (and sometimes political) basis, and are never set in stone. The good news is that the project is now fully funded thus setting it in stone to the extent possible. While I am extremely unhappy about the delay, it would be unwise for the County to deny this funding in hopes of another funding source that may not federalize the project being awarded in the next year or so, as that would be highly unlikely. County denial of the funding would also tarnish the our reputation with state and federal funding sources and ultimately result in less funding from these sources, which would in turn result in increased pressure to raise local taxes as a means to address traffic congestion concerns throughout the County. As always, I will continue to look for ways to accelerate the project and will keep you informed as additional updates become available.

Rt 7/Rt 287 Interchange: This is a new project that I was able to have added to the CIP during the FY17 budget process. The project provides for design, preliminary engineering and construction of future improvements to the Rt 7/Rt 287 Interchange in Purcellville. As part of last year's FY18 budget process, I was able to get design funding accelerated from FY22 to FY21. Currently, the project is scheduled to be fully funded ($11 million) in FY22.

Rt 7/Williams Gap Rd Turn Lane: This project improves safety at the intersection of Rt 7 
and Williams Gap Rd via construction of a right hand turn lane for westbound traffic on Rt 7 wishing to turn northbound onto Williams Gap Rd. The Board of Supervisors endorsed the design of this project on July 5, 2016. VDOT received authorization for right-of-way on November 10, 2016, and r ight-of-way has now been cleared. Utility relocation work was completed in June, 2017. The project was advertised for construction in September 2017. Construction is scheduled to begin in Spring of 2018 and be completed in Summer of 2018.

Rt 9/Rt 287 Roundabout: This project will remove the traffic signal and construct a roundabout to enhance safety and reduce traffic congestion at the Rt 9/Rt 287 intersection. D esign funding was included in the FY16 adopted budget to initiate intersection improvement planning and design. On September 7, 2017, a design contract was issued. Surveying has already begun and design work is scheduled to occur in Spring of 2018. Staff plans to seek Board of Supervisor approval of a design in late Summer of 2018. Based on the current funding plan, right-of-way acquisition will begin in Summer of 2020, utility relocation will occur in Summer of 2021, and construction will begin in Summer of 2022. As always, I will keep you informed as progress continues.

For more detailed information on these or any other transportation projects in Loudoun, please visit the county's transportation update webpage.
Non-Transportation Capital Improvement Project Updates
Everything the County constructs is funded within our six year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), which is separate from our Operating Budget.  In total, the County has allocated more than $2 billion in Capital Improvements over the next six years!

Aldie Fire & Rescue Station:  This project is planned to construct a 15,000 square foot Fire & Rescue Station to replace the existing Aldie Fire & Rescue Station located in the Village of Aldie. The existing station is located in a major flood plain and is in need of repair. The County has purchased a new site for the station. On January 23, 2017, the Board awarded a design contract. A design kickoff meeting was held on February 15, 2017. County staff met with the Historic District Review Committee and the Heritage Commission on October 3, 2017, to solicit input. A community information and public input meeting will be held on November 16, 2017, at 7:00 pm in the Aldie Episcopal Church. 
  
Brambleton Middle School: The Brambleton Middle School is now complete and open for the 2017-2018 school year. The school was  built using a new prototypical two-story middle school design. The estimated 184,593 square foot building is serving grades six through eight. Brambleton Middle School will be co-located between existing Madison Trust Elementary School and future Independence High School. 
 
 

Independence High School: Independence High School received funding in Fiscal Year 2017, and will open at the start of the 2019-20 academic year. The high school will be built using the protypical two-story high school design. The estimated 282,064 square foot building will serve students in grades 9 through 12. With an anticipated program capacity of 1,800 students, the high school will include classrooms, a media center, cafeteria, auditorium, gymnasium, auxiliary gymnasium, outdoor physical education fields and other associated spaces to support the high school program. Click here to see a drone recorded video dated September 3, 2017.

Brambleton Library: This proffered library will take up the first two floors of a new building currently being constructed in the heart of the Brambleton Town Center. The top two floors above the library will become commercial office space. There will also be some ground floor retail space for new shops and/or restaurants. Once constructed by the Brambleton developer, the Library will be staffed and stocked in preparation for its scheduled opening in Summer of 2018.


 
Edgar Tillett Memorial Park:  This project provides funding to add a public restroom, concessions, additional parking, trails and a playground to Edgar Tillett Memorial Park, located just north of the Beaver Dam Reservoir. Substantial Completion was achieved and the park re-opened for use on August 19, 2017. In the next few months, final punch list items will be completed for contract close out.

E.E. Lake Store (Bluemont Area Welcome Center): This project converts the E.E. Lake General Store into the Bluemont Area Welcome Center. The Bluemont Citizens Association, in partnership with the Loudoun County Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services, plan to open the center to the public in order to provide a welcome and information center for residents, tourists, hikers and bikers. As initial renovation and excavation work began, artifacts were discovered below grade which turned out to be from the 1950s. Construction work on re-installation of existing finishes, floors and ceiling, along with wall and ceiling close-in's in the buildings new bathrooms is completed. Installation of interior and exterior mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems are complete. Next, installation of a pump and haul tank as well as site work for the ADA parking lot will be completed. It is anticipated that the entire project will be completed in the Fall of 2017.
  
Fields Farm Park:  This project funds development of a future park on the land between Woodgrove High School and Rt 7. In December of 2016, the Board of Supervisors endorsed a conceptual design of Fields  Farm Park and Fields Farm Park Road. Through a collaborative effort between the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Community Services (PRCS) and Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS), the Park's conceptual design involves the transfer of a portion of current park funding to LCPS for development of a new rectangular artificial turf field adjacent to Woodgrove High School in return for LCPS granting the County Woodgrove High School's current rectangular   artificial turf field to be incorporated into the Park for PRCS use and programming.  Funding for detailed park design and construction is scheduled for FY21 and FY22.
 


Franklin Park to Purcellville Trail:  This project provides funding to develop an alignment and preliminary design for an approximately 1.1 mile recreational trail from Franklin Park to the Town of Purcellville. This is part of a larger sidewalk and shared use trail project to connect Round Hill to Purcellville. I held a public input meeting in Purcellville on June 7, 2017, to discuss two alignment options being offered by the County. In addition, I asked the Town of Purcellville for its input on a preferred alignment. The Town conducted public outreach and recommended a new alignment which would have connected Franklin Park to 32nd and A Streets via a trail through the Farmington on the Green community. The Farmington on the Green Home Owners Association (HOA) subsequently made clear that under no circumstances would it agree to allow a public trail through its community. In the absence of support from the Farmington on the Green community HOA, the Town indicated its preference for County Alignment "1B" which would connect Franklin Park to the existing sidewalk system in Purcellville via a trail adjacent to Tranquility Road and the south side of Main Street. Based on Town input, I will work with County staff to begin talks with property owners along Alignment 1B in an effort to continue progress on this project. If sufficient progress is made, the Board will eventually endorse an alignment and preliminary design work will begin. Final design is currently anticipated to begin in 2021. Options 1A and 1B are shown below:
 
 
Hal and Bernie Hanson Park:  I'm very excited about this project which provides for the design and construction of a regional park along Evergreen Mills Rd between the communities of Brambleton and Willowsford.  The 250 acre park will feature both natural and artificial turf soccer fields, a youth baseball complex, a cricket field and tennis courts. In addition to athletic fields the park will have two amphitheaters, two dog park, a large splash pad, two playgrounds, outdoor courts and a skate park. Passive park facilities will include a nature center, a lakeside lodge, paved and natural surface trails and a disc golf course. In addition, an existing home listed on the National Historic Registry is being renovated as part of the project. Five existing lakes on the property are being restored and will be used for park irrigation.  The project was fully funded this year; however, due to shallow rock, import of fill material and significant earthwork required to construct the athletic fields, the Board was recently advised that the project is anticipated to cost approximately $14,800,000 more than currently funded. I believe area residents have waited long enough for this highly anticipated park; therefore, I've asked County staff to identify a phasing plan that will facilitate construction and opening based on the current schedule rather than delaying the entire project to await full funding of the newly identified shortfall. Most likely this will result in a staff recommendation for phasing of the project whereby most, but not all, will be built on the current schedule, and the rest will be constructed at a later date once funding has been identified and allocated. While this isn't the ideal scenario, it should keep most of the project on time as previously scheduled which I know is strongly supported by the community.
The project is scheduled to go to bid in the Winter of 2018.
As always, I will continue to keep you informed as additional information becomes available. 
 
 
Howardsville Community Wastewater System:  This project designs and constructs a community wastewater treatment facility to serve the community of Howardsville. The  Department of General Services has identified parcels with the potential to accommodate a community wastewater system and will pursue land acquisition in the next quarter .

Hillsboro Traffic Calming, Pedestrian Safety, Congestion Mitigation and Infrastructure Project: This project will construct traffic calming and congestion mitigation, pedestrian safety, utility and water/wastewater improvements along Route 9 through the Town of Hillsboro. Improvements will include roundabouts on both sides of Town, traffic calming streetscaping, sidewalks and multi-use trails, safe on-street parking, burial of overhead utility lines, replacement of antiquated water system (main, meters and laterals), and installation of sanitary sewer main and laterals. The goal is to construct all projects simultaneously in order to reduce cost and minimize impacts to traffic, businesses, and area residents. I would like to thank my colleagues for supporting my request for $4.8 million in FY18 to help fund design of the entire project and construction of the "downtown" section and the GapWay Trail (not including roundabouts). As part of this year's FY19 budget process, I will seek Board approval for the additional funds necessary to construct the remaining portions of this project concurrent with the "downtown" portion. Not only would approval of such funding save considerable funds due to the cost of inflation, but it would greatly reduce negative impacts to area traffic, businesses and residents. I would like to thank Mayor Vance and Hillsboro Town Council for their continued vigilance on this very important project. They have truly taken charge and "championed" these projects at all levels in order to improve the quality of life for Town and area residents!
 
Hillsboro Drinking Water Project (one portion of the above listed project): T his project provides funding and project management support to assist the Town of Hillsboro with abandoning its contaminated spring source and replacing it with a municipal water system in order to deliver potable water to Hillsboro residents.  In an effort to accelerate disconnection from the Town's spring and bring the system into Virginia Department of Health compliance, construction of a portion of the Drinking Water Project will commence in  early 2018.  This will ensure the Town's new water source is supplying its system by October of 2018. Full replacement of the entire system is being coordinated as part of above listed Hillsboro Traffic Calming, Pedestrian Safety, Congestion Mitigation and Infrastructure Project.
 
Lightridge Highschool (HS-9), Elementary (ES-29) & County Public Use Site:
At the December 13, 2016, Finance Committee meeting, I made a motion to accelerate the opening of HS-9 from School year 2021/2022 to School year 2020/2021 as requested by LCPS and many area parents. This motion was unanimously supported by the Finance Committee and later approved by the full Board of Supervisors. The acceleration of HS-9 will result in stabilization of area students one year earlier than otherwise possible. The Board of Supervisors and LCPS worked together to acquire this site. This site will also be home to the future ES-29 and a 30 acre County public use site which I hope to become a County Park. Schools are moving forward with their design plans. I will keep you updated as these projects progress.

Kirkpatrick Farms Fire and Rescue Station #27: This project provides funding for the design and construction of a new fire and rescue station on a 5 acre site just south of the intersection of Braddock and Northstar. Construction is underway and completion is on track for Winter of 2017. 

Round Hill Developmental Services Group Home: This project designs a group residence for construction on a proffered site located at 17394 Arrowood Place in the Villages at Round Hill.  On October 19, 2017, the Board of Supervisors authorized the award of a construction contract to Hammerhead Construction of Virginia, Inc. On October 20, 2017, the construction contract was sent to Hammerhead Construction of Virginia, Inc. and signed. On October 27, 2017, a meeting is scheduled between the Department of Transportation and Capital Infrastructure and the contractor to kick-off the construction phase of the project. Based on the terms of the construction contract, construction should be completed in early 2019 with the facility opening in Spring 2019.

Round Hill Main Street Enhancement Project:  The Town of Round Hill's Main Street Project will construct improvements to Main St from East Loudoun St (Rt 7 Business) to approximately 34 North Main St. Improvements include pedestrian access, on-street parking, safety, streetscaping and storm water drainage issues. In addition to new sidewalks, the project will also include curb and gutter, new culverts and upgraded underground piping that will capture and redirect storm water along Main St and East Loudoun St which has been a long standing source of flooding for yards and basements throughout Town. The design for this project is complete and has been approved by VDOT. At the request of Mayor Ramsey and the Round Hill Town Council, I was able to get Board of Supervisor approval to reallocate proffer funding from another project for utilization on this one. The Town expects construction to begin in FY18 and anticipates that it will take between eight months and a year to complete.

Round Hill Sleeter Lake Park:  This project provides for the construction of improvements to the existing road network and development of a new system of trails to facilitate the opening of Sleeter Lake Park. Construction of the park began in September of 2017. Construction is anticipated to be complete in six to 8 weeks, followed by landscaping, furnishing and signage. The park will be open to all members of the general public officially starting in March 2018. The Town is also seeking County funding for additional safety/accessibility features, and educational opportunities. Should the Town receive funding for these additional improvements, they would be constructed and installed in 2020 and would be considered the final phase of the Sleeter Lake Park project.

Round Hill to Franklin Park Trail: This project designs and constructs a mixed use trail from Round Hill to Franklin Park. A budget shortfall of $500,000 was recently identified based on right-of-way acquisition and associated delays in project bidding; therefore, additional funding needs to be identified. The project is currently scheduled for bidding in the Fall of 2017.

Western Loudoun Park and Ride:   This project provides for the design and construction of a 250 space (minimum) surface level park and ride lot on a site adjacent to the proposed Fields Farm Park. Since this project is being funded through the Federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality program, design services need to be procured through the Request for Proposal (RFP) process including applicable Federal provisions. The RFP will be completed by DTCI in the next two weeks and will then need to be reviewed closely by VDOT which is estimated to take approximately 60 days. In the meantime, the County Attorney's Office and the Dept. of Finance and Procurement will also be reviewing the document. The RFP is expected to be issued in early February of 2018. A Consultant will be selected in May of 2018, again with VDOT reviewing the preliminary award package. It is anticipated that the Consultant Award will come to the Board for approval in August or September of 2018. Design is expected to take approximately 18 months due to the fact that the property will need to be rezoned in order to accommodate the future Park and Ride lot. With no right-of-way requirements, construction should begin in August of 2020 and last for about a year, with completion in August of 2021.  Per the approved FY18 CIP, the project should be fully funded in FY19.

Woodgrove Park Restrooms: This project provides funding for the  installation of a public restroom facility in Woodgrove Park near the Town of Round Hill. Bids were received on April 5, 2017 for the installation of the restroom and concession building at this location along with two other park sites. Based on the need for supplemental funding, the bids were canceled and the project will be rebid by December 2017. Staff is in the process of preparing for the project for rebidding and reviewing the planned construction timeline of 6 months for the three park sites, included in the construction contract. Based on that review, a new construction completion schedule will be determined.

For more information on any of these projects, or if you are interested in other capital improvement projects that are not listed above, please see the county's most recent CIP quarterly report or the CIP interactive map.
Envision Loudoun Process Continues
Envision Loudoun's preliminary report on public comments related to the draft vision, goals and objectives were presented to the Envision Loudoun Stakeholders Committee in August of 2017. A total of 1,712 unique public were gathered during community workshop sessions held throughout the County. These workshops focused on community vision, goals and objectives, as well as areas where the County might consider future residential and commercial development.

Comments are being sorted into key topic areas for consideration by County staff and our Stakeholders Committee as they work on drafting a new recommended plan. Topic areas include:
  • Economic Development Strategy
  • Green Infrastructure
  • Growth Management
  • Housing
  • Infrastructure/Utility Planning
  • Public Facility Plans
  • Quality Development
  • Revitalization/Redevelopment
  • Rural Policy Area
  • Silver Line Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPAM)
  • Suburban Policy Area
  • Transition Policy Area
  • Transportation
On October 3, 2017, the Board received an update from County staff regarding current progress of the Stakeholders Committee.  As you may have heard, myself and several of my colleagues, voiced our displeasure with Committee recommendations related to the Transition Policy Area and what I feel was a shared belief from the Board that Committee recommendations were not in alignment with community input. Click here to view a recent Loudoun Now article covering the story. I'm hopeful the Committee heard the Board and will use our feedback to adjust course.

Envision Loudoun is now entering Phase 4 of 5, which will synthesize the information collected during the "Listening and Learning" and "Envision the Future" stages of public engagement. Once this has occurred, the Stakeholders Committee will draft its draft recommendation for the new Comprehensive Plan. The draft Plan will then be made available for review through a series of public workshops in early 2018.
Mobile Chicken Coop Update
Supervisor Higgins and I worked with County staff to obtain clarification that zoning permits are not required for mobile chicken coops. 

In a Sep 13, 2017, advisory opinion from Zoning Administrator, Mark Stultz, mobile chicken coops in zoning districts where agriculture is a permitted use do not require zoning permits. Mobile chicken coops are defined as, "an enclosure, cage or pen with wheels or tires that is capable of moving or being moved in which chickens are confined."

We also received clarification from the Commissioner of the Revenue, Bob Wertz, that "temporary structures" such as mobile chicken coops - are not taxed by the County. As stated by the Commissioner, "temporary structures not permanently affixed to the ground are not taxable for real estate tax purposes regardless of the use." 

I'm happy to have worked together with Supervisor Higgins, County staff and the Loudoun County Farm Bureau to identify a solution that benefits producers and homeowners alike!
Rt 50 Traffic Calming Corridor Landscaping Upgrades!
In working with VDOT and Scott Kasprowicz from the Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) - nearly $100,000 in landscaping upgrades to the Corridor are in progress, and we now have a contract to maintain them!
 
This VDOT project includes vegetation upgrades to roundabouts and islands along the corridor to include the Aldie, Upperville, and Gilberts Corner areas. Upgrades include reestablishment of vegetation to include trees, shrubs, ornamental plantings and turf. Ongoing maintenance will include improved care and appearance of the area via watering, fertilizing, fungus control and mulching. Work began on Oct 6, 2017, and is scheduled for completion in next month. I look forward to sharing before & after photos when available!
 
(crews working on Gilbert's Corner landscaping improvements today!)
Veterans Corner
 
The Virginia Department of Veterans Services (VDVS) has opened a new office in Ashburn to assist veterans with their benefits and other services. The new office will serve military veterans and their families in Loudoun, Fairfax, Clarke and Frederick counties!

VDVS operates 28 benefit offices that assist military veterans and their families in filing claims for federal veterans benefits; two long-term care facilities offering in-patient skilled nursing care, Alzheimer's/memory care and short-term rehabilitative care for veterans; and three cemeteries that provide an honored final resting place for veterans and their families.  VDVS provides veterans and family members with direct linkages to services including behavioral healthcare, housing, employment, education and other programs.  The Department also operates the Virginia War Memorial, the Commonwealth's monument to honor the memory and sacrifice of Virginia's men and women who served and fought to defend our way of life from World War II to the present. For more information, please visit www.dvs.virginia.gov.

The office is located at 44345 Premier Plaza, Suite 200, Ashburn, Va.  The phone number is 703-995-9998 and office hours are  Mon-Fri, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Broadband In Western Loudoun
New Countywide Broadband Strategic Plan!
  
Based on direction from this Board of Supervisors, county staff is drafting a countywide Broadband Strategic Plan (BSP) for the expansion of Broadband services to currently unserved areas throughout Loudoun (mainly western Loudoun). County staff is currently coordinating with LCPS, Loudoun's Communications Commission, and many other Departments and groups to ensure a well vetted and thorough plan. Staff's goal is to complete a draft BSP and present it to the Board in the Spring of 2018.

No Access to Broadband?  Let Us Know!

Increasing Broadband and Cellular coverage throughout western Loudoun is one of my top priorities. I encourage anyone without access to service from a broadband provider to let us know by clicking here. Once on the Loudoun Express Request system: 
  • Type "Broadband" in the search box
  • Select "Cable and Broadband Service Request"
  • Fill in the requested information
Upon completion, broadband providers will be notified of your lack of service availability. In addition, your notification will be populated on a county map in order to help identify focus areas as we continue the effort to increase broadband and cellular coverage throughout western Loudoun County.
Election Day Information

Make Your Voice Be Heard!

 

Ensure your voter registration is accurate. A General election will be held at all Loudoun County precincts on Tuesday, November 7, 2017. Appearing on the ballot will be the offices of Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, and all Members of the Virginia House of Delegates. There will also be two Loudoun County Bond Questions. View links to sample ballots and more here.

  • Polling Place: Due to recent changes, verify your polling place here.
  • Polls will be open from 6 am to 7 pm.
  • Voter registration deadline was Monday, October 16, 2017.

A complete list of all Blue Ridge District polling places with links to maps and directions can be found here.
  Mark Your Calendar! Community Events and Information

Belmont Slave Cemetery Wreath Laying Ceremony and Walking Tour: The Loudoun Freedom Center invites you to the Belmont Slave Cemetery Oral History Walking Tour & Wreath Laying Ceremony on November 12th at 1:30pm. Re-discover Loudoun's "forgotten" history while learning how you can help save Loudoun's most endangered historic African American sites through preservation, education, and advocacy. 
Brambleton Kids Run the Nation: The Kids Run the Nation program is a gender inclusive, multi-week, youth running program designed by the Road Runners Club of America. The emphasis of this program is on participation and developing a healthy lifestyle as opposed to being a competitive running program. Practices began on September 17th and are held from 4-5 pm. For more information, please visit their website here.

Christmas in Hillsboro Historic Homes Tour: Join the Short Hill Historical Society on December 9, 2017, to tour five historic homes in the Town of Hillsboro that will be beautifully decorated for the holidays with fresh greens. Learn about each of the homes from docents who guide you through and share stories and historical information. Buy tickets, learn about opportunities to sponsor and volunteer, and see photos from past tours here.
Christmas in Middleburg: Start your advent in Middleburg on the first Saturday in December! Middleburg is the perfect setting for evoking the Christmas spirit - tree lighting (Dec 1st), a Christmas parade (Dec 2nd), shopping, caroling, and more. Over 10,000 visitors make Christmas in Middleburg a family tradition. Get your parking pass or learn more by clicking here. 

Christmas in Purcellville: There's no better way to prepare for the season than taking part in the Town's great festivities! Hand-painted holiday ornaments will be displayed throughout the Town this holiday season. Click here for information on the Annual Lighting of the Christmas Tree (Dec 1st), Trolley Tours (Dec 8-10th), Town Hall events, ornament decorating, and the wonderful Christmas Parade (Dec 9th)!

 
 Farm to Fashion: 12 local artists present "agricouture" art garments made from materials provided by local farms and agricultural businesses. The exhibit will run daily at the Arts Center through October 31 from 2-5 pm. Participate in our People's Choice Award, and meet the artists! For more information, click here.

 
Boo in the Gap (Hillsboro) : Come out to Hillsboro's Old Stone School Gap Stage on Saturday, October 28th for  a spooky Halloween  evening  with a costume contest, food trucks, local wine and beer, music featuring Steve George and friends, and dancing .  Lawn opens at 6pm, music starts at 7 pm. Rain or shine (inside or out)! Proceeds benefit Hillsboro's Old Stone School.

Halloween Block Party (Purcellville): The 7th annual Purcellville Halloween Block Party will be October 28th, 2017. This great event is fun for all ages - the party starts at 5 PM and goes till 9 PM. During this event, North 21st Street is closed and there is great food, live entertainment, and TONS of candy! There will be costume contests with over $2000 in cash and trophies awarded. More info is available here .

History Talks, Trips, and Treasures: Join the Short Hill Historical Society for the third in their series, "History Talks, Trips, and Treasures" and visit the Burnt Mill on October 29 from 4 to 6 p.m. Hear about the history of this old mill, enjoy some cider, and be there for the traditional lighting of the jack-o-lanterns in the windows of the mill ruins. Find more details here.
Lace Up for Learning: Join us on November 11th at the Brambleton Town Center to "fun-race" for our schools at the 5th annual Lace Up for Learning 5k & Mascot Mini Mile! This family-oriented fundraising 5k event is designed to encourage a healthy lifestyle and engage local communities in support of our schools. For more details or to register, click here.

Turkey Trot & Fun Run : Enjoy a fall morning November 13th at 8am and support your community center.  Sign up now to run in the original Purcellville 5k!  Funds go toward the LVCC Advisory Board Scholarship Fund. Kids - come do the Fun Run! It's a family morning for all in the community! Click here for more information on this event.

Unison Heritage Day: Come out to the historic village of Unison on Saturday, November 4th from 1:00 - 5:00 pm for an art show, live auction, bluegrass music by Willow Branch, fresh oysters & BBQ.  The Unison Historic District is located in the village of Unison, in a rural area of southwest Loudoun. Click here for more information or to purchase tickets.
       Resolutions in the Blue Ridge District
Diaper Need Awareness Week:

Believe it or not, there are local families in our community who cannot afford a sufficient suppl y of diapers for their infants/toddlers.  In September, my Aide Rachael presented a Board approved Resolution to Ms. Christina Mosely recognizing September 25 - October 1 of 2017 as "Diaper Bank Need Awareness Week".  Anyone wishing to help can do so by donating diapers to the  Northern Virginia Diaper Bank .

Note: If you are aware of Blue Ridge District residents who have made significant achievements within our community, please contact my office so that they can be considered for a Resolution of Commendation or mention in a future Newsletter.
All my best,
Tony Buffington
Blue Ridge District Supervisor
[email protected]

Shevaun Hochstetler
 Chief of Staff
 [email protected]

Rachael Holmes
Legislative Aide
[email protected]

Pamela Keegan
 Legislative Aide
 [email protected]