CAPE CHARLES – The Town of Cape Charles has submitted a $2 million grant application to the U.S. Department of Transportation as it advances its comprehensive Beachfront Master Plan, with notification of funding expected by mid-November.
The grant application, submitted September 8, 2025, to the Rural and Tribal Assistance (RTA) Pilot Program, would fund the plan’s survey, final design, environmental compliance, and grant preparation efforts. Town officials are already preparing backup options, including applications for BUILD and Transportation Alternatives Program grants, should the RTA funding fall through.
The master plan, developed by Vanasse Hangen Brustin, Inc. (VHB) since December 2023, represents a significant evolution in the town’s approach to managing its beachfront area. The latest concept revisions, presented at a September 4 work session, show a more practical and community-focused design than earlier iterations.
“One of the big things was realigning the beach entrances with the end of the streets,” explained project representatives, noting how wind and sand movement patterns influenced the angled, tightened openings in the final design.
Key Changes Include Golf Cart Accommodations
Perhaps the most notable addition to the plan is dedicated golf cart parking on each block – a direct response to community feedback. The design team consulted with major golf cart manufacturers to ensure proper specifications, creating 7-foot by 12-foot spaces that could be extended to 16 feet to accommodate larger 8-seater models.
The Bay Avenue improvements would increase total parking from approximately 160 to 204 spaces – a 28% boost. The redesigned area balances vehicle and golf cart parking while incorporating bike racks to support the upcoming Rails to Trails connection.
Scaled-Back Plaza Design
The plan shows a more restrained approach to hardscaping. Original plaza designs at each entrance have been removed, with the south plaza significantly reduced in size. The Jefferson Avenue Plaza, which will house restrooms, has also been downsized. Natural sand areas will replace previously planned planting areas and turf, reducing maintenance requirements.
The south plaza area near the LOVE sign will feature tan-colored pavers and can accommodate up to five food trucks, with a dedicated ramp for vendor access. Mountable curbs throughout the design allow emergency and maintenance vehicle access while deterring regular traffic.
The master plan process began with an ad-hoc committee appointed by former Town Manager John Hozey, including representatives from various civic organizations, the yacht club, and town departments. A public survey conducted from March 25 to April 30, 2024, gathered community input that has shaped the current design.
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How much is going into town councils pockets, and can I get a cut?
There is no such thing as bribery and payola, no such thing at all in any Virginia politics or local issues!
Never happens, happened, or exists at all.
Where’s YOUR PROOF ???….
R. Chevy