Public Hearing for Eastern Shore Rail to Trail Project May 8th

CHERITON, Va. — Residents of Northampton County are invited to participate in a crucial public hearing regarding the Eastern Shore Rail to Trail Project, slated for Wednesday, May 8, 2024.

The event, scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m., will take place at the Cheriton Volunteer Fire Company located at 21334 South Bayside Road, Cheriton, VA 23316. Registration is not required, and attendees will have the opportunity to engage with project engineers and learn more about the proposed design.

Give your written or oral comments at the hearing or submit them by May 18, 2024, to Kenneth McKinna, Project Manager, Virginia Department of Transportation, 7511 Burbage Drive, Suffolk, VA 23434. You may also e-mail your comments to Kenneth.McKinna@VDOT.Virginia.gov. Please reference “Eastern Shore Rail to Trail Project Comment” in the subject line.

Project Overview

The Eastern Shore Rail to Trail Project aims to repurpose sections of the former Bay Coast Railroad into a shared-use path, fostering connectivity and recreational opportunities within the community. The proposed project entails the construction of two segments:

1. A 2.17-mile segment stretching from the intersection of Fig Street and Mason Avenue in the Town of Cape Charles to Route 13 (Lankford Highway) and Country Place.
2. A 1.4-mile segment extending from Route 13 (Lankford Highway) and Country Place to Route 638 (Sunnyside Road) in the Town of Cheriton.

Additionally, the project includes the establishment of two parking areas and the striping of bicycle lanes on Sunnyside Road, enhancing safety for cyclists and pedestrians.

Review and Comment

Residents are encouraged to review the project plans at the public hearing or at designated Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) offices. The plans can be accessed at the VDOT’s Hampton Roads District Office in Suffolk or the Accomac Residency Office. Prior arrangements are recommended to ensure the availability of personnel to address inquiries.

Written or oral comments regarding the project are welcome during the public hearing or can be submitted by May 18, 2024, to Kenneth McKinna, Project Manager at the Virginia Department of Transportation.

Environmental Considerations

The project undergoes evaluation under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documentation, with a Categorical Exclusion (CE) process underway to assess environmental impacts. Information on the project’s potential effects on properties listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places will also be provided.

Accessibility and Nondiscrimination

VDOT ensures nondiscrimination and equal employment in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Special assistance for persons with disabilities or limited English proficiency is available upon request.

Inclement Weather Contingency

In the event of severe inclement conditions on May 8, the meeting will be rescheduled to Tuesday, May 9, at the same location and time.

For further information or assistance, residents can contact VDOT’s Civil Rights Division.