Louisa County plans to remove VDOT from subdivision review process

During the recent Planning Commission Worksession held on March 13, 2025, in Louisa County, significant discussions centered around proposed changes to the subdivision review process and telecommunications regulations, both aimed at improving efficiency and addressing community concerns.

One of the primary topics was the ongoing issues with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and its role in the subdivision review process. Planning Commission members expressed frustration over VDOT's recent decision to stop signing off on subdivision plats, which has led to delays and confusion in the approval process. The commission is considering removing VDOT from the review process altogether, as they have not been conducting field reviews or providing timely approvals. Instead, it was suggested that any necessary entrance approvals be handled at the time of the entrance permit application, which would streamline the process and reduce the 45-day waiting period currently required for VDOT review.

This proposed change aims to alleviate the burden on developers and ensure that subdivision plans can move forward without unnecessary delays. The commission acknowledged that if VDOT is not actively reviewing and approving plans, their involvement in the process may no longer be necessary.

In addition to the subdivision discussions, the commission also addressed updates to the telecommunications ordinance. A new consultant has recommended that applicants for cell tower modifications be required to submit a five-year inspection report to ensure structural integrity. This change aims to eliminate reliance on assumptions made in previous structural analyses, thereby enhancing safety and compliance with industry standards.

The commission plans to further discuss these proposed changes in their upcoming work session in April, allowing members to digest the information and provide feedback. The goal is to create a more efficient and effective review process that better serves the needs of the community while ensuring safety and compliance in development practices.

As these discussions progress, the Planning Commission remains focused on how these changes will impact residents and the overall development landscape in Louisa County.