News from the CSPDC Region
October 2020
Ag. Center Feasibility Study Launches Survey 

On September 16, the CSPDC launched a survey to collect data about the region’s food system, and how an Agricultural Enterprise Center could assist farmers and food businesses expand production and access new markets. Collected data will be used for the Agricultural Enterprise Center Feasibility Study that is expected to be completed in May 2021.
October is Transit Appreciation Month 

To replace September’s Try Transit Week, the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) launched a new statewide initiative, Transit Appreciation Month. This campaign is in response to COVID-19 and supports the changes that transit agencies across Virginia have made to keep passengers and bus operators and staff safe.

Crozet Tunnel Dedication

The Crozet Blue Ridge Tunnel will soon be open to the public for walking and biking. Project partners from the past 20 years joined Governor Northam and Secretary of Transportation Shannon Valentine, Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Bettina Ring and Virginia Tourism Corporation President and CEO Rita McClenny to formally dedicate the Tunnel on September 23, 2020. VDOT, Nelson County, and Waynesboro contributed just over $5 million over the life of the project to restore the Tunnel, and construct trails, parking lots, and interpretive signs along the trail. Congratulations to Nelson County on the completion of this landmark project! Stay tuned for details on the Tunnel’s official open date for the general public.  
SAWMPO Long Range Plan Seeks Public Input

The Staunton-Augusta-Waynesboro Metropolitan Planning Organization (SAWMPO) is in the final stages of the 2045 Long Range Transportation Plan Update. The CSPDC is seeking input from the public on the proposed list of projects in the document.
CSPDC Assists with Staunton Flood Relief 

On August 8, a stalled rainstorm caused up to several feet of flood water to invade many downtown Staunton businesses and homes. Two weeks later a second devastating storm caused additional damage throughout the City. To assist Staunton residents during this challenging time, the Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge accepted donations for a Flood Relief Fund. 
CSPDC Receives Broadband Funding to Serve Rockbridge County 

In January, Virginia Governor Northam announced more than $18.3 million in grants through the Virginia Telecommunication Initiative (VATI) to support broadband expansion to underserved regions across Virginia. The CSPDC submitted an application with co-applicant BARC Electric Cooperative and was awarded a $2.2 million grant.


Rockbridge Area Outdoor Partnership Receives Technical Assistance Grant 

On September 18, the Rockbridge Area Outdoor Partnership (RAOP) received a technical assistance grant from the National Park Service through its River, Trails and Conservation Assistance program (RTCA). The Rockbridge Area Outdoor Partnership, formally known as Braiding the Way, is a community initiative striving to enhance outdoor recreation in the Rockbridge area. 
CSPDC in the News:
Study for an Agricultural Enterprise Center
CSPDC Receives EDA Funding

CSPDC Brings Broadband Service to Rockbridge County
CSPDC Resources: