Cape Charles to Lower Old Cape Charles Road Speed Limit to 25

CAPE CHARLES, Va. — Cape Charles, known for its golf cart-friendly atmosphere, is moving closer to providing a safer, more convenient passage for golf carts between its two main population centers — Bay Creek and the Historic District.

The Bay Creek Homeowners Association recently committed to constructing a dedicated golf cart path along the north side of Cassatt Parkway, stretching from the main entrance of Bay Creek to Old Cape Charles Road near the historic Rosenwald School. This new path will replace a long-unused, deteriorated route in the same area. The path, made possible through a developer-provided easement, will be maintained by the homeowners association going forward.

However, one obstacle remains before this link can be fully utilized. Currently, the speed limit on Old Cape Charles Road between Bayshore Road and Cassatt Parkway is 35 mph, which is too high for legal golf cart use. Virginia law permits golf carts only in areas with speed limits of 25 mph or lower, meaning a reduction in the speed limit on this stretch is essential for completing the connection.

Town officials have proposed Resolution 20250515, requesting the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) to lower the speed limit on this portion of Old Cape Charles Road to 25 mph. VDOT requires a formal resolution from the Town Council before considering such changes.

Lowering the speed limit would not only enable safe passage between Bay Creek and the Historic District but also facilitate future golf cart traffic to the soon-to-be-renovated Rosenwald School at 1500 Old Cape Charles Road, which is expected to become a multi-purpose community center. The area north of Bayshore Road already has a 25 mph speed limit that extends into the Historic District, providing a consistent zone for golf cart traffic.

Supporters of the resolution note that as Bay Creek continues its rapid development, the need for safe, alternative transportation options will only grow. They also emphasize the town’s long-standing commitment to promoting golf carts as an environmentally friendly mode of transportation, a designation officially recognized by the Virginia General Assembly.