Cape Charles Urges USPS to Repair or Replace Deteriorating Blue Mailboxes

CAPE CHARLES — Concerned about deteriorating mail infrastructure and the lack of action from postal officials, the Cape Charles Town Council approved a resolution Thursday night formally requesting the U.S. Postal Service repair or replace several blue collection boxes scattered throughout town.

The move follows a two-month effort by Town staff to address what they describe as peeling paint, rust, faded decals, and illegible pickup-time labels on multiple USPS collection boxes located in both business corridors and residential neighborhoods.

A recent visual assessment identified six problem sites:

• Fig Street & Monroe Avenue
• Nectarine Street & Monroe Avenue
• Monroe Avenue & Harbor Avenue
• Mason Avenue & Pine Street
• Randolph Avenue & Strawberry Street
• Tazewell Avenue & Plum Street

Town officials say the boxes not only look neglected but could confuse residents about pickup schedules and compromise the visibility and professionalism of postal infrastructure in high-traffic areas.

According to Town staff, the issue was first raised on Oct. 1 when Assistant to the Town Manager Pam Endlein notified the Cape Charles Post Office that several boxes needed repainting or replacement. The counter clerk reportedly responded that the office had no budget for maintenance but would pass the concern along to the Postmaster.

On Oct. 16, the Town Manager personally delivered a written assessment, photos, and a formal request for repairs. The Postmaster, contacted by the clerk, expressed frustration at receiving the complaint and said she would not repaint or replace the boxes, though she might consider applying new labels.

Since then, the Town has received additional comments from residents, but USPS has not indicated any willingness to take corrective action.

Council Pushes for Accountability

Resolution 20251120, adopted unanimously, formally asks USPS to inspect all blue collection boxes in Cape Charles and repair, repaint, or replace those in poor condition.

The resolution states that deteriorated mailboxes may hinder secure, weather-tight mail deposit and “negatively impact the appearance of the Town’s streetscapes.” It also emphasizes that many residents rely on local collection boxes to send bill payments, legal documents, and other time-sensitive items.

The Council also requested a written response from USPS outlining planned actions and an estimated timeline for any repairs or replacements.

The Town Manager is authorized to forward the resolution to the Cape Charles Postmaster, the USPS District Manager, and any additional postal officials or elected representatives who may assist in the matter.

Town officials say they hope the formal resolution will prompt a timely response from USPS after local attempts at cooperation stalled.

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Wayne Creed

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