The Culpeper County Planning Commission meeting held on December 11, 2024, addressed significant concerns regarding a proposed development that could add 140 new homes to the area. The primary focus of the discussion revolved around the potential impact on local traffic, water resources, privacy, and wildlife displacement.

One resident articulated four main concerns, with traffic being the most pressing issue. The resident estimated that the new development could generate approximately 800 vehicle trips daily, considering an average of two adults per household and additional teenage drivers. This influx of traffic would primarily utilize Old Bridge Road, which is currently a two-lane, unstriped road lacking adequate shoulders and traffic signals. The resident highlighted that the existing infrastructure is already strained, particularly at the intersection of Old Bridge Road and Route 211, where traffic congestion is common.

The resident further explained that the current traffic situation is exacerbated by vehicles attempting to turn left onto Route 229 from Route 211, creating significant delays for residents trying to exit their neighborhood. Additionally, the other end of Old Bridge Road features a historic one-lane bridge, which poses further limitations on traffic flow.

The Planning Commission acknowledged these concerns and discussed the need for a comprehensive traffic management plan to address the anticipated increase in vehicle volume. The meeting underscored the importance of considering infrastructure capabilities before proceeding with the development, ensuring that the community's needs are met without compromising safety or quality of life.

As the meeting concluded, the commission indicated that further evaluations and discussions would be necessary to address the community's concerns and explore potential solutions for managing the increased traffic effectively.