Concerns over housing developments and their impact on local infrastructure dominated the Culpeper County Planning Commission meeting on December 11, 2024. Residents voiced strong opinions about the potential economic and logistical challenges posed by new projects, particularly the Stonehaven development.

One resident highlighted that new housing developments could lead to a loss of sales revenue for Culpeper, as many new residents might choose to shop in neighboring Fauquier County instead. "Nobody living at Stonehaven is gonna shop in Culpeper," he stated, emphasizing the need for the county to reconsider its approach to housing and development.

Bob Shrivos, a local resident, raised alarms about traffic safety on Old Bridge Road, which sees over 266 vehicles daily. He warned that increased traffic from new developments could overwhelm the area, funneling more cars onto already congested roads. "That's a heck of a lot of cars with not a very good egress," he noted, urging the commission to take these concerns seriously.

Victoria Thompson, a young resident from the Jeffersonton District, expressed her excitement for affordable housing but cautioned against rushing into new projects before completing existing ones. "We are kind of getting ahead of ourselves," she said, pointing out that many residents currently prefer to shop and dine in Warrenton due to its convenience. She also raised questions about the affordability of new homes and the implications for local schools, asking how the influx of families would affect school transportation and zoning.

The discussions highlighted a growing tension between the desire for development and the need for careful planning to ensure that Culpeper's infrastructure can support new residents. As the commission moves forward, the community's concerns about traffic, economic viability, and educational resources will likely play a crucial role in shaping future decisions.