CSPDC Begins Microtransit Feasibility Study for BRITE Service Area

The CSPDC is conducting a microtransit feasibility study, with technical assistance from Kimley-Horn. The kick-off meeting was conducted at the November BRITE Transit Advisory Committee (BTAC) meeting, as the BTAC will serve as the stakeholder group. 

Microtransit is an on-demand transportation service where riders can request rides via an app or a call to the dispatcher, and service is available within designated areas. Microtransit provides flexibility and additional coverage to service areas and can either complement existing routes or replace underperforming fixed routes. 

Town of Grottoes Focuses on Increasing Civic Engagement

The CSPDC is currently working on an update to the Town of Grottoes Comprehensive Plan. One focus for the update will be increasing civic engagement in the Grottoes community. This objective was originally identified in the 2023 Town of Grottoes Strategic Plan update, along with goals of establishing stronger connections and a sense of community in Grottoes. Research for the community facilities inventory portion of the Comprehensive Plan update confirmed that encouraging civic engagement would be a helpful priority for town officials.

SAWMPO LRTP Phase I Public Engagement Completed

The Staunton-Augusta-Waynesboro Metropolitan Planning Organization (SAWMPO) has completed the first phase of public engagement for the 2050 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), gathering valuable insights from residents about their vision for the region's transportation future.

The SAWMPO, staffed by the CSPDC, collected feedback from 284 community members through an online survey, community consultation sessions, and pop-up events across the region. The survey revealed strong community interest in expanding the options for transportation in the SAW area, particularly for walking, biking, and public transit.

USDA Awards $4.4 Million to BARC Connects to Expand Broadband in Rockbridge County

In late October, BARC Connects received a $4.4 million grant through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s Community Connect Program to install a fiber-to-the-premises system in Rockbridge County. The project will provide high-speed internet access to 816 residents and four businesses, focusing on the Collierstown/Effinger area.

Subscribers will enjoy symmetrical internet speeds of up to 1000 Mbps. Additionally, two public computer workstations will be installed at the Lake Robertson recreation area, offering free internet access to the community for at least two years.

Lexington Conducts City-Wide Windshield Survey to Assess Housing

In October, Summit Design and Engineering Services, the consulting firm hired by the City of Lexington, conducted a survey of the city’s housing to assess local needs. Summit’s team performed a city-wide windshield survey, driving through every neighborhood to evaluate the condition of buildings using a standardized methodology.

The survey results are one piece of a forthcoming report that will document the current state of the City’s housing stock, assess both present and future needs, and propose potential recommendations and strategies for improvement.

Have You Seen Our New Regional Collaboration Video?

Since 1969, the Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission (CSPDC) has played a critical role in the high quality of life in the Shenandoah Valley. From brainstorming to ribbon-cutting, CSPDC walks side by side with our 21 localities to support Housing, Economic and Community Development, Environmental Protection and Disaster Mitigation, and Transportation and Transit projects.

But don’t just take our word for it. Watch the video to hear from some of our partners about the impact of CSPDC’s work and how we bring the region together.

Virginia Innovation Accelerator in Buena Vista Receives Additional IRF Funding

The Advancement Foundation received an additional $110,000 through the Industrial Revitalization Fund (IRF) program to support the ongoing renovation of the Virginia Innovation Accelerator (VIA). The funding will be used install an eight-inch interior sewer line and an exterior sewer main.

Season's Greetings from the CSPDC!

Regional Facts & Figures

Regional Plans

Regional Data Center

FY 2020 Year in Review

Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission | 540-885-5174

Email | Commissioners | Staff