TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Shaping Sperryville’s Future Together
• Background On Community Engagement
• Sperryville Pedestrian Safety and Accessibility Plan
• Major Recommendations to Improve Sperryville Pedestrian Safety and Accessibility
• Additional Safety and Accessibility Recommendations
• Infrastructure Investments in Local Communities
• Appendix A: Implementation Plan
• Appendix B: Guidelines for Sperryville Working Groups
• Appendix C: Report of Sperryville Safety Working Group 211 Corridor
• Appendix D: Report of Sperryville Safety Working Group Main Street
• Appendix E: Report of Sperryville Safety Working Group East Sperryville
• Appendix F: August 28, 2019 Recommendations
• Appendix G: Implementation of Locality Speed Limit Reduction

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Traffic in Sperryville has increased in the past decade, and this trend is expected to continue. The COVID-19 pandemic reminded our urban neighbors of the charm of our village and the beauty of neighboring Shenandoah National Park. In fact, in 2023, there was a 35% increase in traffic from 2013 to 2023 via Sperryville’s Thornton Gap Park entrance. Additionally, developments within or bordering Rappahannock, such as the 700+ homes at Clevenger’s Corner and the increasing number of tourist rentals in the county will further contribute to increased traffic in our small village.

SHAPING SPERRYVILLE’S FUTURE TOGETHER

There are local factors impacting traffic as well such as the redevelopment of the River District, the growth in the number of new small businesses, and the need for affordable housing. The local coffee shop noted that cups of coffee sold in his nine year old Main Street shop totaled over 32,000 in the past year — that is 32,000 more people on Sperryville’s Main Street in less than ten years. This in- crease in both walkers and vehicles on a road originally designed for horse and buggy poses signifi- cant safety concerns.

These concerns are made worse by the lack of dedicated sidewalks and crossways as well as Main Street’s junction with the major thoroughfares of state routes 211 and 522. Sperryville needs to de- cide how to respond to these changes. The Sperryville Community Alliance, in collaboration with Rapp at Home (a local nonprofit concerned with the well-being of older citizens), held a series of community meetings to discuss ways to improve the safety and accessibility of walking and driving in Sperryville. This report is the result of these community meetings.

This issue, however, is not a recent concern for the community. In 1999, the Sperryville Gateway Proj- ect brought a sidewalk and storm drains to Main Street, as well as an updated pedestrian bridge over the Thornton River. Many concerns about traffic and safety addressed in that project remain relevant to residents and visitors today. In 2019, the community gathered to discuss the issue and generated numerous recommendations on how to slow traffic and improve safety.

In 2021, the Rappahannock Board of Supervisors requested a Virginia Department of Transportation study to review safety issues in the villages of Flint Hill and Sperryville. The resulting report recom- mended significant improvements to include roundabouts, crosswalks, sidewalks, and other safety and traffic calming measures.

Sustained and active input from members of the community has shaped this blueprint for improving pedestrian safety and accessibility in the village. Sperryville is our home, and it is essential that we take steps to ensure it remains as charming, authentic, and beautiful as it has been for the past 200 years.

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Sperryville Community Study
Project Gateway
Community Safety Priorities
VDOT Pedestrian Infrastructure Study
Community Engagement

Background on Community Engagement

In response to safety and accessibility concerns, Sperryville residents are urging infrastructure im- provements. These proposals include marked crosswalks, extended sidewalks, traffic circles, and oth- er traffic-calming measures to make the village safer and more accessible. Well-designed pedestrian safety measures not only protect walkers but also reduce overall traffic speeds and enhance safety for all road users. Research demonstrates that these measures will decrease the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities, especially among vulnerable groups such as children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.

Residents know that a more walkable community encourages social interactions, which fosters a sense of community. Improved walkability would make our town an even more appealing place to live, work, and play. Our current, inadequate infrastructure discourages walking – either for pleasure and exercise or simply to get from one place to another in the village. A more thoughtful plan, one that complies with ADA standards, would encourage walking and the benefits that ensue, such as im- proved physical and mental health, reduced obesity, and enhanced overall well-being. It would also allow the community to determine its future rather than transportation officials more concerned with moving traffic than building community.

An infrastructure tailored to Sperryville’s specific needs would enhance the village’s unique charm and character, support the local economy, bring jobs, and support local businesses. Current efforts to attain this safety goal are not new; rather, they build upon previous initiatives and proposals which are aligned with many of the improvements outlined in this report.

Sperryville Gateway Project

The most significant recent initiative to improve Sperryville’s infrastructure was the Sperryville Gateway Project, released in January 1999. This project had five key objectives: (1) maintaining the rural charm and scenic values of Sperryville, (2) enhancing the Sperryville Historic District, (3) creating a safe pedestrian-friendly environment, (4) connecting the village to the commer- cial node west along U.S. 211, and (5) boosting the local economy by en- hancing tourist-related assets.

The Sperryville Gateway Project was designed to be implemented in two phases. Phase One focused on creating a more pedestrian-friendly village that preserved its historic character through specific traffic calming tech- niques on Main Street and several other elements.

Phase Two aimed to connect the village, via a bicycle and pedestrian
path, to the commercial area west of town and Shenandoah National Park. This phase also included infrastructure improvements such as a storm drainage system along Sperryville’s historic Main Street, a four-foot-wide sidewalk from Woodward Road to The Corner Store, and the reconstruction of the pedestrian bridge over the Thornton River to connect the village with the Old Schoolhouse complex.

The Sperryville Gateway Project resulted in important improvements to the community including the Main Street storm water drainage system, the four-foot wide “sidewalk” along Main Street, the replacement of the pedestrian bridge across the Thornton River, and the construction and installation of three Sperryville gateway signs along 211 and 522.

2019 Community Meeting

In August 2019, thirty-five community members gathered at Stonewall Abbey on Main Street to discuss ways to calm traffic and further improve pedestrian safety in Sperryville. During this lively and engaging discussion, nineteen ideas were shared, with additional suggestions gathered via social media.

The prioritization process that followed highlighted several key proposals: 1) rezoning areas to allow for sidewalk extensions, 2) reducing speed limits on Route 211 and Main Street, 3) adding cross- walks, 4) making Main Street one-way, 5) improving Sperryville entrance gateways, and 6) adding walking and biking lanes. Other suggestions included implementing traffic calming measures such as planters, wider road markings, speed humps, as well as increasing police presence to enforce speed limits and truck restrictions. The complete list of recommendations can be found in Appendix F.

Sperryville Community Study

The community’s interest in pedestrian and bike-friendly improvements was spurred on by a study conducted by the Sperryville Community Alliance with the support of the PATH Foundation during the spring and summer of 2021. The study revealed a strong desire for enhanced transpor- tation infrastructure. When asked to name amenities they
believed would make Sperryville more appealing, 62 percent of residents responded with amenities to improve pedestrian access, traffic calming, and safety improve-
ments. Question 9 of the study asked residents to rate their satisfaction with 14 community assets. The two assets with the lowest overall ratings were “Activities for Children and Youth” and “Safety of Pedestrian Facilities.” The 2021 Sperryville Community Study can be found at www.sperryfest.org.

VDOT Pedestrian Infrastructure Study

In October 2021, the Rappahannock County Board of Supervisors request- ed a study from the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) to review pedestrian safety issues in Flint Hill and Sperryville. Fieldwork for this study was conducted in April 2022 and resulted in the Rappahannock County’s Flint Hill and Sperryville Pedestrian Infrastructure Evaluation Memorandum (referred to elsewhere in this document as the “2022 VDOT Pedestrian Infrastructure Study”). The Board of Supervisors endorsed the study in August 2022.

This important study provided a comprehensive set of expert recom- mendations to address safety and accessibility issues in Sperryville. The study recommendations made to the Secretary of VDOT included side- walks, traffic circles, intersection safety enhancements, traffic calming elements, trailhead concepts, and other safety considerations.

Sidewalk improvements included proposed a multi-modal sidewalk along Route 211 from Route 522 to Atkins Road with two crosswalks and installing a new sidewalk and drainage system on Sperryville Pike from The Corner Store to Reynold’s Church.

Other safety recommendations included installing crosswalks on Main Street, creating pedestri- an access across Route 211, modifying the Main Street/Route 211 intersection to improve safety and slow traffic, and studying the potential for a roundabouts at the intersection of state routes 522 and 211 and 522 and 231.

2024 Community Engagement and Plan

On February 6, 2024, over 100 Sperryville residents and neighbors made 35 recommendations to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility in the village. Out of these recommendations, the most supported items included: (1) increasing the number of sidewalks in the village, (2) looking into the feasibility of traffic circles at the intersections of routes 522 and 211 and 522 and 231, (3) implement- ing a three-way stop at The Corner Store, and (4) narrowing Main Street to reduce traffic speed.

As a result of this meeting, three Working Groups were established. Each of the Working Groups was assigned a specific geographic area of the community: (1) 211 Corridor Working Group focused on 211 from Old Hollow to the Park, (2) Main Street Working Group focused on Main Street from 522 to 211, and (3) East Sperryville Working Group focused on 522 from Old Hollow to 231 (F.T. Valley).

The task of the Working Groups, which met throughout 2024, was to review the input from all previous efforts and develop a set of recommendations to tackle the safety and accessibility issues. The following set of recommendations was developed by these Working Groups and reviewed during a community meeting at the Sperryville Volunteer Fire Station on August 14, 2024 with about 50 attendees.

Ranking of Sperryville Safety Suggestions

• MORE SIDEWALKS
• TRAFFIC CIRQ.E AT 522/211 ANO 522/321
• THREE-WAY STOP AT CORNER STORE
• NARROW MAIN STREET: STRIPING/ CHICANES
• PEDESTRIAN ACCESS ACROSS MAIN STREET BRIDGE
• ENHANCE SPERRYVILLE GATEWAYS
• REDUCE 211 SPEED FROM OLD HOLLOW
• NO CHANGES
• BYPASS AROUND SPERRYVILLE
• DIVIDE OR CREATE ONE-WAY MAIN STREET
• ADD STREET PLANTS TO SLOW TRAFFIC
• REMOVE 211PASSING LANE BETWEEN OTG ANO BASE
• REMOVE SYCAMORE TREE ON MAIN STREET
• CROSSWALK ON 211FROM MAIN STREET BRIDGE
• SPEED BUMPS ON MAIN STREET
• IMPROVE SAFETY OF STREET GRATES
• MIRROR ON 211 AT MAIN STREET
• ENFORCE SPEED LIMIT

SPERRYVILLE PEDESTRIAN SAFETY
& ACCESSIBILITY PLAN

The three Sperryville Working Groups began meeting in early April 2024 and held meetings through July. Their common goal was to review the infrastruc- ture recommendations made by residents at the February 2024 meeting as well as newly introduced ideas. Members were tasked with discussing each proposed solution to determine its feasibility, practicality, and relevance to achieving the goals of the Safety and Accessibility Plan to solve community transportation issues. They were allowed to introduce new ideas and eliminate ones that they believed would not meet the project’s goals.
Accordingly, at the first meetings, the Working Groups had detailed discus- sions on each item presented by the community and voted to determine if they deserved further consideration. Most items retained for further consideration were unanimously supported. Suggestions without support were removed from consideration. Details of these discussions by each Working Group are included in this report in Appendices C, D, and E.
At subsequent meetings, the Working Groups returned to a number of rec- ommendations informed by a month of study and research. New items were introduced, and all were prioritized based on their perceived value in improving pedestrian safety and accessibility. Working Group members considered how recommendations for controlling traffic on local streets appropriately aligned with community needs.
The Working Groups came together for a joint review of a consolidated list of recommendations on July 2, 2024. The following report shares their assess- ment of which recommendations would have the greatest impact on improving safety and accessibility.

MAJOR IMPROVEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS
The Sperryville Safety and Accessibility Working Groups identified four recommendations which they consider likely to result in the greatest improvement in pedestrian safety and accessibility.
Together, they would slow traffic passing through Sperryville on Route 211 or turning onto Main Street. The desired end result would be a more
connected, walker-friendly, accessible village.

Roundabouts
at Intersection of Routes 522/211 and Route 522/231
Sidewalk along the south side of Sperryville Pike from The Corner Store to Reynold’s Baptist Church.

Main Street Bridge replacement and realignment to a right angle with Route 211.
Sidewalk along State Route 211 from State Route 522 to Atkins Road.

12 Sperryville Pedestrian Safety & Accessibility Plan / January 2025

AT INTERSECTION
OF ROUTE 522/211 AND ROUTE 522/231
to create more efficient and safer streets. VDOT adopted a “roundabout first” policy in
2009 as a preferred alternative when building new intersec-
and rural settings, reducing traffic delays and improving the overall flow of vehicles. Research indicates that round- abouts can reduce delays by
tions or upgrading older ones. 20-89 percent. Furthermore, a
The concept of creating a roundabout or traffic circle at the intersection of Route
522 and Route 211 near Shaw’s Service Station and The Old Schoolhouse was first recom- mended in the 2022 VDOT Pe- destrian Infrastructure Study. Community discussions have embraced the idea as a means to improve safety on Route 211 and create an attractive gate- way to the village.
Roundabouts have become an increasingly important tool for federal, state, and local transportation departments
In recent years, roundabouts have been installed in many of our neighboring communities including Culpeper, Luray, and Warrenton.
The safety benefits of roundabouts are well-docu- mented. Studies have shown that they can significantly reduce injury crashes by 75% and fatal crashes by 90% compared to traditional inter- sections. Roundabouts pro- mote safer driving by forcing vehicles to slow and yield to oncoming traffic. They have proven effective in both urban
roundabout at this intersection would provide an opportunity for aesthetic enhancements and serve as a gateway to the village.
A second roundabout at intersection of 522 at 231 (F.T. Valley Rd.) was also support- ed by the Working Groups.
This roundabout would slow traffic coming north and west into Sperryville and indicate to drivers that they are entering a residential and business area. Designs for these traffic circles would require expert input from transportation engineers.

REPLACEMENT AND REALIGNMENT TO RIGHT ANGLE WITH ROUTE 211

FROM THE CORNER STORE TO REYNOLD’S BAPTIST CHURCH

The Working Groups proposed the creation of a sidewalk along 211 from the intersection of routes 211 and 522, near Shaw’s Service Station to Atkins Road. This improvement would pro- vide a safe walkway from Main St. to businesses along Rte. 211, while also allowing pedestrian access to Thornton Gap Church Road and Atkins Road.
According to the 2022 VDOT Pedestrian Infrastruc- ture Study, the installation of a sidewalk on this stretch of 211 would qualify the area for a reduction in the speed limit. Presently, this section of road experiences excessive speeds on a curve with limited vis- ibility, and it intersects with local roads that have residen- tial housing, such as Bryan Road/600 and Thornton Gap Church Road/611. Accidents, including a recent fatality, are not uncommon in this area.
Installing a sidewalk and re- ducing traffic speeds, while still allowing for through traffic, are among recommendations from the Working Groups aimed at improving pedestrian access to more areas of Sperryville.
The intersection of Main Street and Route 211 poses significant safety concerns for the com- munity, its residents, and visi- tors. The sharply angled, non- traditional intersection design encourages excessive speeds when traffic turns onto Main Street from the west and cre- ates dangerous incidents when turning from Main Street in ei- ther direction. This intersection has seen an increasing number of vehicular accidents or near accidents due to the difficulty of seeing oncoming westbound traffic. The rail guard is rou- tinely destroyed by collisions and by westbound semi-trucks attempting the sharp left turn onto Main Street. Furthermore, the intersection does not allow for safe passage of pedestrians between Main Street and the homes and businesses along Route 211.
The redesign of this inter- section, including the replace- ment and realignment of the Main Street bridge over the South Branch of the Thornton River, to a more traditional right-angle with Route 211 is the third major infrastructure upgrade unanimously support- ed by the Working Groups. A concern of community mem- bers, also supported by the 2022 VDOT study team, is the potential for flooding because the center pillar of the bridge is apt to cause debris backup and block water flow.
The redesign of this inter- section would ideally include a pedestrian walkway across the bridge and a crosswalk on Route 211 to access the pro-
posed sidewalk along Route 211 mentioned above.

FROM STATE ROUTE 522 TO ATKINS ROAD

The Working Groups strongly supported a sidewalk along Sperryville Pike (522) from The Corner Store to Reynold’s Bap- tist Church, including the instal- lation of a stormwater control system. Walking in this part of Sperryville is dangerous. The 2022 VDOT Pedestrian Infra- structure Study reads, “There are no existing sidewalks on this part of Route 522. A new sidewalk is recommended on the south side of Route 522 to provide access to the business- es, homes, and churches and
to connect to the Sperryville trail network to form a com- plete loop. There are existing drainage ditches on the south side today; curbs and gutters are recommended to manage stormwater when the sidewalk is installed.”
Pedestrian access along Sperryville Pike would help uni- fy and connect the village with safe convenient walking paths. It would also support large church and community events during which available lots fill up, and attendees are forced to walk along the state highway.

ADDITIONAL SAFETY & ACCESSIBILITY RECOMMENDATIONS
Several other important initiatives were recommended by the community and endorsed by the Working Groups. These initiatives support the priorities listed above, while others make additional and more immediate contributions to safety and accessibility. While some initiatives require significant time
and resources to implement, others can be achieved in the near-term.
The Working Groups organized these proposed actions by how immediately they can be implemented, according to the following groupings:
Near-Term Safety Measures
Improve Transportation Signage and Markings to Enhance Safety
Request reduction in speed limit on village roads per the recent change in Virginia law granting more authority to local jurisdictions.
Recommend installation of speed indicator on 211/522 and reposition indicator on 211 to the west.
Review current in-village road signs and recommend changes to VDOT, including restrictions on airbrakes and truck access.
Revisit rules allowing passing lanes on 522 entering Sperryville and 211 near Off the Grid.
Install Crosswalks on Main Street and Intersection Modifications at Main Street/522
Install four Main Street crosswalks with signage
Between 43 Main (Sperryville Post Office) and 42/44 Main (Haley Art Gallery/Stonewall Abbey parking lot)
To Main Street trailhead of the Sperryville River Walk next to 31 Main (Before & After)
Across Woodward Road at Main Street
Between 12 Main (Sperryville Volunteer Rescue Squad) and 15 Main (Farm & Fields Floral Design)
Install crosswalk-like stripping across entire The Corner Store intersection
Replace existing village signage with unique historic posts and signs
Enhance Pedestrian Safety near Storm Drain Grates
Cover or replace Main Street stormwater drain grates with grates that have narrower gaps between the bars.
Cover or replace access drain grate next to Sperryville River Walk and Estes Bridge with a grate that has narrower gaps between the bars.

Medium-Term Safety Measures
Upgrade Sperryville Gateways
Upgrade community gateway along 522.
Create enhanced gateway on 211 for eastbound traffic.
Determine location for enhanced gateway on 211 in west Sperryville
Improve signage along 211 to direct traffic to the River District to avoid congestion on local roads in Sperryville such as Water Street.
Enhance Main Street Safety
Create distinctive, textured crosswalks at both ends of Main Street to indicate a business district.
Mill and remove layer of blacktop to lower street level to allow for a sidewalk curb.
Add perpendicular grooves in southside shoulder markings to warn drivers they are entering a sidewalk

Infrastructure Grant Safety Measures
Create Pedestrian Infrastructure to Access 211 Sidewalk
Install crosswalks and pedestrian refuge island from the village to the proposed 211 sidewalk
Add crosswalk on west side of Estes Bridge.
Implement Measures to Slow Traffic and Improve Pedestrian Safety on Sperryville Pike
Add pedestrian crosswalk from proposed Sperryville Pike sidewalk to Rappahannock County Water and Sewer Authority access.

INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENTS IN LOCAL COMMUNITIES
Members of the Working Groups acknowledged the significant cost and requirements associated with implementing these recommendations. There are federal and state infrastructure grant programs within the Virginia Department of Transportation that could be leveraged to support their implementation. The SMART SCALE program and the Transportation Alternatives Program are two programs used across the state for
transportation improvements. Other sources of funding are available within annual operating cycles of the Department of Transportation. Most grant proposals must be applied for and approved by the Rappahannock Board of Supervisors or the Rapidan- Rappahannock Regional Commission. The first step for each of these programs is to develop a community plan. This plan serves that purpose.

18 Sperryville Pedestrian Safety & Accessibility Plan / January 2025

SMART SCALE Program
The SMART SCALE Program provides 100 percent state funding for projects that meet one or more transportation needs identified in Virginia’s Transportation Plan. Among the types of SMART SCALE projects eligible for funding include (1) highway improvements and (2) pedestrian and bicycle improvements. Applications are scored on five criteria: improvements to safety, support to economic development, increased accessibility, reduction in congestion, and enhancement
to environmental quality. For each SMART SCALE cycle, basic project information (pre-applica- tion) must be submitted by April 1 of the calendar year, and final applications must be submitted by August 1. Within the last five years, neighboring communities have benefitted with over $150 million from the SMART SCALE program for project similar to being proposed in this Plan includ- ing intersection improvements, roundabouts, sidewalk construction and extension. Rappahannock County has not requested or been awarded a SMART SCALE grant since the program’s first round of awards in 2016.

2024

Culpeper County
$4.7M
Intersection improvements
Route 3 / Route 669
Madison County
$11.3M
Intersection improvements
Route 230 / Route 687
Culpeper
$12.8M
Roundabout
Orange Rd / Fredericksburg Rd.
Culpeper
$8.3M
Sidewalk extension
Old Brandy Road
Fauquier County (Bealeton)
$9.3M
Roundabout
Route 28 / Station Drive
Culpeper
$8.6M
Sidewalk extension
Orange Road
Culpeper County (Jeffersonton)
$10.0M
Roundabout
Route 229 / Route 621
Warrenton
$14.9M
Intersection improvement
W Lee / US17 / Winchester
Warrenton
$14.1M
Safety improvements
Lee Hwy / Blackwell Rd
Orange County
$17.0M
Intersection improvements
Route 3 / Route 20
2022

Fauquier County
$10.3M
Roundabout
Route 55 / Route 709
Orange County (Gordonsville)
$7.8M
Roundabout
Route 231 / High Street
Fauquier County
$3.2M
Roundabout
Route 29 / Broad Run Church Rd.
2020

Culpeper
$6.2M
Roundabout
Route 3 / McDevitt Dr.
Orange County
$5.5M
Roundabout
US 33 / Route 20
Madison County
$2.9M
Intersection improvements
Route 29 / Route 662
Page County (Luray)
$3.3M
Intersection improvements
US211 / Big Oak Rd.

1 https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title33.2/chapter2/section33.2-214.1/
2 https://smartscale.virginia.gov
Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) Grant
Virginia’s Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP), which funded the 1999 Sperryville Gateway Program, operates on a two-year cycle and requires an 80/20 cost share. This program funds community-based projects to expand non-motorized travel choices and enhance the transportation experience by improving the cultural, historical, and environmental aspects of the transportation infrastructure. It emphasizes constructing and expanding active transportation facilities that provide equitable accommodations for all users. Outcomes of the supported projects lead to quality-of-life benefits for residents, alternative mode accessibility, safety, reductions in pollutants and emissions, and the expansion of recreational facilities. VDOT solicits TAP applications every two years, in the spring of odd-numbered years (April 2025), for a two-year funding cycle. The
only application to this program for Rappahannock County was in the 2019/2020 cycle, but the Rappahannock County Board of Supervisors declined to accept the funds.

2023/24

Culpeper
$682,361
Sidewalk Extension
North Blue Ridge Ave.
Madison
$1.2M
Sidewalk Extension
South Main Street
2021/22

Culpeper
$637,513
Sidewalk Extension
Sperryville Pike
Gordonsville
$451,184
Sidewalks and Crosswalks
W. Gordon Ave
Fauquier County
$542,460
Sidewalk Construction
Route 28 / Independence Rd.
Stanardsville
$165,000
Sidewalk Extension
Main Street
Warrenton
$407,112
Multi-use pedestrian and bicycle trail
Timber Fence Trail
Culpeper
$397,629
Sidewalk Extension
Ira Hoffman Lane
Madison
$230,578
Sidewalk Construction
Main Street
2019/20

Fauquier County
$3.9M
Bridge Rehab
Waterloo Bridge
Rappahannock County*
$815,871
Multi-use Trail
Elementary to High School
Warrenton
$361,127
Multi-use Trail
Waterloo Road

The Ready, Set, Go!
The Ready, Set, Go! is a VDOT grant program designed to assist local communities with populations less than 200,000 – with priority given to localities with populations less than 5,000 – in developing potential ideas toward an eligible TAP application. Ready, Set, Go! is 100 percent funded by VDOT with no local match requirements. Applications are due in September of odd years (2025).

The Safe Streets & Roads for All program
The Safe Streets & Roads for All program administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation, provides grants to communities for planning, implementation and demonstration of activities to make for safer streets. Projects and activities seek to improve safety for all users including, drivers, passengers, pedestrians, bicyclists and people with disabilities. The program is designed exclusively to help local communities the technical assistance; to date, rural communities comprise around one half of all grant award recipients. Pre-applications are due August of each year.

*Funds declined by Rappahannock County Board of Supervisors.
https://www.vdot.virginia.gov/doing-business/for-localities/local-assistance/transportation-alternatives/ https://www.transportation.gov/grants/SS4A

Safety and Accessibility Recommendations
Detail
Working Group Action
Timeline
NEAR-TERM CALMING AND SAFETY MEASURES

1. Improve Transportation Signage and Markings to Enhance Safety

1a. Request reduction in speed limit on village roads per the recent change
in Virginia law granting more authority to local jurisdictions
Lower speed limit on Main Street from 25 mph to 15 mph
Lower speed limit on Water Street from 522 to Water Street bridge from 25 mph to 15 mph
Lower speed limit on 211 from 522 intersection to Atkins Road from 45 mph to 35 mph
Request support from Rappahannock Board of Supervisors.
Letter to Sean Nelson, District Engineer, VDOT Culpeper District Office, 1601 Orange Road, Culpeper, VA 22701.
Per Guidance included in Appendix F of this Plan

Spring 2025

1b. Recommend installation of speed indicator on 211/522 and reposition indicator on 211 to the west.

Install speed indicator on 211/522 west bound at the current 45 mph indicator sign
Move east-bound 211 speed indicator sign from current location to west of Off The Grid
Request support from Rappah- annock Board of Supervisors.
Letter to Steve Frooman, Region- al Traffic Engineer, VDOT Cul- peper District Office, 1601 Orange Road, Culpeper, VA 22701. – Per Guidance: VDOT IIM-TE-374.1:
Pole Mounted Speed Display Sign

Spring 2025

1c. Review current in-village road signs and recommend changes to VDOT, including restrictions on airbrakes and truck access

Create report to recommend to VDOT new sign alignments.
Establish sub-working group of local residents to catalog local transportation signs and make recommendations to VDOT Resident Engineer to clarity with local input.

Spring 2025
1d. Revisit rules allowing passing lanes on 522 entering Sperryville and 211 near Off the Grid
Review rules related to passing lanes on 45 mph state roads. Develop alternatives to remove lanes or reduce hazard of passing vehicles

Review July 15, 2022 VDOT study to determine next steps.

Spring 2025

2. Improve Transportation Signage and Markings to Enhance Safety

2a. Install four Main Street crosswalks with signage
Install crosswalk from Sperryville Post Office to the parking lot at Stonewall Abbey and Haley Fine Art Gallery
Install crosswalk between Sperryville River Walk trailhead next to Before & After and sidewalk in front of 30 and 32 Main Street
Woodward Road at the Main Street intersection
Sperryville Volunteer Rescue Squad to the “Welcome to Sperryville’ mural

Letter to Sean Nelson, District Engineer, VDOT Culpeper District Office, 1601 Orange Road, Culpeper,
VA 22701 requesting installation of mid-block crosswalks on Main Street. See VDOT Guidance: IIM- TE-384.1: Pedestrian Crossing Accommodations at Unsignalized Approaches

Summer 2025
2b. Install crosswalk-like stripping across entire The Corner Store intersection
Paint intersection with slightly raised stripping similar to existing truck apron to increase awareness of unusual traffic intersection.
Request VDOT study to determine feasibility of creating a safer intersection with expanded truck apron stripping

Summer 2025

Safety and Accessibility Recommendations
Detail
Working Group Action
Timeline
NEAR-TERM CALMING AND SAFETY MEASURES

3. Enhance Pedestrian Safety near Storm Grates

3a. Replace or cover Main Street stormwater drains with more narrow gaps

Install drain covers on all eight – Main Street with safer, more narrow gaps
Letter to D. Mark Nesbit, VDOT District Residency, 437 E. Shirley Ave, Warrenton, VA 20186 to request installations of pedestrian safety grates.

Summer 2025

3b. Replace or cover access drain next to Sperryville River Walk next to Estes Bridge

Install safer drain cover on dangerous VDOT manhole
Letter to D. Mark Nesbit, VDOT District Residency, 437 E. Shirley Ave, Warrenton, VA 20186 to request installations of pedestrian safety grates.

Spring 2025

MEDIUM-TERM TRAFFIC CALMING AND SAFETY MEASURES

4. Upgrade Sperryville Gateways

4a. Upgrade community gateway along 522.
Create design for more enhanced Sperryville Gateway through community input process to be used throughout community and update existing location.

Summer 2025

4b. Relocate and create en- hanced gateway on 211 for eastbound traffic
Relocate 211 gateway from current sign at Waterpenny closer to Sperryville near the “Share
the Road” and speed limit sign. Alternatively, create new gateway in proposed Traffic Circle at 522 / 211 intersection.
Establish community group to gather community input, determine locations, create
Gateway design, request VDOT right-of-way approval, raise funds either through transportation grants for private funding

Summer 2025

4c. Determine location for enhanced gateway on 211 in west Sperryville

Locate new Gateway along 211 from Luray to create awareness of a village and alert traffic to increased vehicular and pedestrian traffic.

Summer 2025

4d. Improve signage along 211 to direct traffic to the River District to avoid congestion.

Add signage on 211 to direct traffic to the River District to avoid overuse of 522 / 211 in Sperryville and Water Street.
Work with community and River District tenants and residents to determine best approach to minimize traffic congestion..

Summer 2025
Safety and Accessibility Recommendations
Detail
Working Group Action
Timeline

5. Enhance Main Street Safety
   5a. Create distinctive, textured crosswalks at both ends of Main Street to indicate a business district.
   Install cobblestone or similar crosswalks at western 522 entrance to Main Street and at eastern 211 entrance to alert traffic of entering a congested village area.

Fall 2025

5b. Mill and remove layer of blacktop to lower street level to allow for a sidewalk curb.
Determine feasibility of removing layers of blacktop on Main Street to lower its level to allow for better stormwater flow and create space for street curbs on south side

Request VDOT study removing asphalt build-up to lower street and allow for curb infrastructure

Fall 2025
5c. Add perpendicular grooves in southside shoulder markings to warn drivers they are entering a sidewalk
Install grooves to the southside shoulder similar to the grooves on local highways to alert drivers they are moving onto a sidewalk and alert pedestrians to potential danger.

Request VDOT study and deter- mination to add grooves to south shoulder like of Main Street

Fall 2025

5d. Replace existing village signage with unique his- toric posts and signs
Create driver awareness that they have entered an area dif- ferent from a highway in which they need to increase aware of driving behavior.

Review village signage to determine cost and designs. Request VDOT process for requesting unique signage.

Fall 2025

INFRASTRUCTURE GRANT SAFETY MEASURES
Priorities for grant program include roundabouts, community sidewalks and Main Street bridge realignment.

6. Create Pedestrian Infrastructure to Access 211 Sidewalk

6a. Install crosswalks and pedestrian refuge island from the village to the proposed 211 sidewalk

Provides pedestrian access to the proposed 211 shoulder side- walk from Main Street and the Sperryville River Walk.

Include crosswalk and refuge island funding in infrastructure grant program for 211 sidewalk
Timing dependent on specific grant program (see below)

6b. Add crosswalk on west side of Estes Bridge.

Provides pedestrian access to the proposed 211 shoulder side- walk from Main Street and the Sperryville River Walk.

Include crosswalk funding in infrastructure grant program for 211 sidewalk
Timing dependent on specific grant program (see below)

7. Implement Measures to Slow Traffic and Improve Pedestrian Safety on Sperryville Pike
   7a. Add pedestrian crosswalk from proposed Sperryville Pike sidewalk to Rappahannock County Water and Sewer Authority access road.

Provides safe access for pedestrians on the proposed Sperryville Pike sidewalk to access the network on walking trails

Include crosswalk funding in infrastructure grant program for Sperryville Pike sidewalk

Timing dependent on specific grant program (see below)

Working Group Goals and Output:
Determine transportation infrastructure changes in Sperryville that you, as a Working Group, believe would cause the greatest positive impacts to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility within your area of focus.
Document why the Working Group believes these changes would improve safety in Sperryville. For transparency purposes, please be aware these discussions are available for public review.
Present your plan to the Alliance Board and the community for review and input.
Not a Part of the Scope of the Working Group:
Determining the cost of the solution
Finding the source of funding for the solution
Engineering the solution
Presenting non-transportation infrastructure changes
Due Date: 6/10/2024
Potential Resources:
2021 Sperryville Community Study
2022 Flint Hill and Sperryville Pedestrian Infrastructure Evaluation Memorandum
2020 Rappahannock County Comprehensive Plan
1999 Sperryville Gateway Project
2019 and 2024 Community Safety Meeting
VDOT Traffic Statistics
Traffic Calming Guide for Neighborhood Streets, VDOT, November 2017
Guiding Principles 1
Maintain the rural character and scenic and historic values of Sperryville and Rappahannock County;
Preserve and enhance the Sperryville Historic District;
Provide a safe, pedestrian-friendly environment for residents and visitors to the village;
Connect and unify the village with the commercial node west along U.S. 211;
Grow the local economy by enhancing tourist-related assets.

Consider our commitment to Dark Skies and the environment as a part of your evaluations.
Questions to Consider
What is the idea and how does it improve pedestrian safety in Sperryville?
What is the positive impact this idea will create?
What information is available that would make you confident that the positive impact would happen if implemented? For example, has this been done in another community a nd what was the impact?
At a high level, what dependencies exist to implement the idea?
What are the challenges with implementing the idea?
What are the potential negative impacts to implementing this idea?
How does this idea align with the Guiding Principles?

1 Guiding Principles adopted from the Sperryville Gateway Project, 1999

The first meeting of the Sperryville Safety Working Groups was held on April 2, 3, and 4, 2024, to review the list of suggestions made at various community meetings, online, and by transportation experts. These initial meetings were held to assess the positive impact of each suggestion on making Sperryville a safer and more accessible community for pedestrians. The aim was to develop a commu- nity plan for implementation.
The “211 Corridor” Working Group reviewed 25 suggestions specific to changes along Virginia Route 211 from Waterpenny Lane to the entrance of the Shenandoah National Park. The Working Group con- sidered each item for its potential impact on improving safety for pedestrians, calming traffic, reclaim- ing our local roadways, and providing improved access for residents and visitors to explore our quaint village on foot, while following the five Guiding Principles.
The Working Group unanimously supported three significant improvements to the 211 Corridor. These include (1) a shoulder sidewalk from the 211/522 intersection near the Schoolhouse and Shaw Service Station to Atkins Road/651 near NAPA Auto, (2) a roundabout at the intersection of 211/522 at the Schoolhouse and Shaw Service Station, and (3) replacing and realigning the Main Street bridge to a right angle with 211 and adding a pedestrian walkway. Additionally, members of the Working Group proposed relocating and enhancing two Sperryville Gateways along 211, coming from Warrenton and from the Shenandoah National Park. Speed indicator signs were supported to be located on 211 near these relocated Gateways.
The Working Group reviewed all suggestions and eliminated some as they were not infrastructure changes, such as increased enforcement and speed cameras. Other suggestions, such as installing a mirror on 211 opposite the Main Street bridge, were deemed by the Working Group to not significantly contribute to improving community safety. were deemed impractical. Similarly, restricting turns to/ from Main Street to only right turns or further restricting truck traffic turning onto Main Street from 211 were considered impractical. The Working Group unanimously agreed that “No change” to Sper- ryville infrastructure was not an option. Working Group members agreed that a community-led plan needs to be developed to address the increases in traffic and activity in the area. A discussion on restricting the use of airbrakes resulted in an agreement that signage should be installed to reduce noise in the community.

211 SIDEWALK
The Working Group unanimously supports the installation of a sidewalk along the north side of the 211/522 intersection to Atkins Road/651. This sidewalk would serve multiple purposes. It would con- nect the community and businesses along 211, Thornton Gap Church Road, and Atkins Road to Sper- ryville proper. The sidewalk would allow community residents and guests to safely walk into Sper- ryville and help build a stronger sense of community.
As reported in the Flint Hill and Sperryville Pedestrian Infrastructure Evaluation Memorandum, July 28, 2022, the presence of a pedestrian sidewalk on this stretch of 211 would qualify it for a reduction in the speed limit. Currently, this area is troubled by excessive speed on a curve with limited visibility, along with residential housing and intersections with local roads such as Bryan Road/600 and Thorn- ton Gap Church Road/611. This stretch of 211 is also prone to accidents, including a recent vehicle-re- lated death. The Working Group also concluded that by adding a sidewalk and slowing down traffic, the community can reclaim its roads for community purposes, rather than simply as a pass-through.
The addition of a sidewalk on the north side of 211 would require additional improvements. These im- provements include crosswalks across 211/522 between the Schoolhouse and Shaw’s Service Station, a crosswalk across 211 from Shaw’s Service Station to the new sidewalk, and a crosswalk from the Main Street bridge to the newly installed sidewalk. The Working Group supports these new pedestri- an crossings and considered safety measures to ensure pedestrian safety, including pedestrian-acti- vated signals known as Rectangular Rapid Flash Beacon (RRFB). Concerns were raised about flash- ing lights near homes, noting that there were no residences near the 211/522 intersection. Members also expressed concerns about disrupting the rural nature of the community with flashing lights.
The Working Group agrees with the VDOT Infrastructure Evaluation Memorandum that a sidewalk from Waterpenny Lane to the 211/522 intersection or from Atkins Road to Skyline Drive is not appro- priate at this time.

ROUNDABOUT
The Working Group unanimously concluded that a roundabout at the intersection of 211/522 near the Schoolhouse and Shaw’s Service Station would significantly improve safety in Sperryville. A roundabout at this location would slow traffic and improve traffic flow at this busy intersection. The Virginia Department of Transportation notes the benefits of roundabouts, including: (1) improved safety by reducing the number of points where vehicles cross paths, (2) increased efficiency with fewer stops, delays, and shorter queues, (3) safer speeds as it requires lower speeds and more time for drivers to react, and (4) improved aesthetics allowing for landscaping and beautification.
The presence of a roundabout or traffic circle would also improve pedestrian crossing. The round- about would require traffic to slow down as it enters the stretch of 211 proposed for a new shoulder sidewalk. Moreover, a roundabout would create an infrastructure barrier to prevent excessive speed- ing through the Sperryville area on 211 as drivers of cars and motorcycles would be forced to slow down to navigate it. Additionally, there is experience to suggest that traffic circles would improve traffic flow in this area, particularly during busy times. The Working Group believes that with the help of traffic flow experts, a design could be created that allows vehicle traffic and pedestrians to coexist in this space.
In order to connect this pedestrian infrastructure to the village, a connecting sidewalk needs to be constructed. The Working Group expressed support for further exploration of creating a pedestrian path on the existing Estes Bridge. Another option is acquiring right-of-way from the Schoolhouse property to construct a sidewalk to the 211/522 intersection, as proposed in the VDOT Infrastructure Evaluation Memorandum.

MAIN STREET BRIDGE
The replacement and realignment of the Main Street bridge is the third major infrastructure upgrade unanimously supported by the 211 Corridor Working Group. This aging bridge is currently construct- ed in a manner that (1) encourages traffic from the west to turn onto Main Street at excessive speeds and (2) creates dangerous incidents when turning off Main Street or when traffic seeks to make the sharp turn onto Main Street from the east. Additionally, there is no pedestrian walkway, preventing safe access to Main Street from various parts of the community and limiting access to homes and businesses along 211 from Main Street. Another concern highlighted by the VDOT Infrastructure Evaluation Memorandum and echoed by the Working Group is the potential for flooding in the com- munity due to the center pillar of the bridge causing debris backup and blocking water flow. A video recorded during the 2018 storms by a member of the Working Group showed these potential flood- ing conditions.
The Working Group believes that realigning the bridge to a traditional right-angle intersection with 211 would greatly improve safety in the area, as it currently experiences frequent vehicle accidents and regular destruction and replacement of the road guard at the intersection. This realignment would eliminate the dangerous sharp right-hand turn that forces traffic into oncoming vehicles. The
Working Group considered the recommendation to restrict only right-in-right-out turns but found it impractical for regular access to Main Street.
The Working Group proposed including a pedestrian walking path on the replacement bridge and a crosswalk across 211 to access the proposed sidewalk. This would allow residents in the northern part of the community to walk into the area and provide a safe pathway for residents and visitors to ac- cess businesses and homes along 211. The use of a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) for the crosswalk was discussed, but concerns were raised about the impact of flashing lights in a residential area.
Finally, an emailed comments hinted at an additional roundabout at the intersection of Main Street and 211.

HOMEWORK
The Working Group agreed to investigate some discussed topics but need more information to make decisions. These topics include:
Location of two enhanced gateways along 211 from both Warrenton and the Park.
Location of two pole-mounted speed indicator signs. There was agreement that former location of the sign for east bound traffic was idea, while the currently install west bound sign needs con- sideration
VDOT requirements to be met to restrict passing on 211 near Off the Grid and the Base.
Operation of currently installed roundabouts in nearby communities and how the impact traffic and pedestrian safety.
Review Traffic Calming Guide for Neighborhood Streets by VDOT as it defines the number of additional traffic calming measures as well as describes the community process to implement infrastructure changes.
Safety Improvement Suggestions
211 CORRIDOR WORKING GROUP
Install lighted speed indicator signs
Improve Sperryville gateways and relocate to better define Sperryville
Reduce speed limit on 211 from Old Hollow to 522/211 intersection
Increase enforcement of current speed limits
Install shoulder sidewalk proposed on 211 from 522 to Atkins Road
Add sidewalk access from the village to 211
Improve curb extension on 211 near Shaw’s
Add crosswalks on 211 at Shaw’s and Main Street intersection
Install pedestrian crossing signal
Modify corner at Shaw’s to slow traffic
Add pedestrian refuge island on 211 near Shaw’s
Reduce speed on 211 from Shaw’s thru commercial areas
Install roundabout at 522 / 211 intersection
Install mirror on 211 at Main Street
Restrict right turn off Main
Install pedestrian bridge to connect Main Street to 211
Main Street bridge replaced, T-Up with ADA pedestrian accommodation
Add walking/biking lane along 211 from Main Street to the Park
Walking trail along Thornton River on 211 from Main Street to B&B
Remove passing lane on 211 near Off The Grid
No changes
Prohibit use of air breaks in Sperryville
Increase police presence to enforce speed limit and truck restrictions
Restrict truck traffic in Sperryville
Add speed cameras on 522

The first meeting of the Sperryville Safety Working Groups was held on April 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, 2024, to review the list of suggestions made at various community meetings, online, and by transportation experts. These initial meetings were held to assess the positive impact of each suggestion on making Sperryville a safer and more accessible community for pedestrians. The aim was to develop a com- munity plan for implementation.
The “Main Street” Working Group reviewed 27 suggestions specific to changes on Sperryville’s Historic Main Street from the Corner Store to 211. The Working Group considered each item for its potential impact on improving safety for pedestrians, calming traffic, reclaiming our local roadways, and providing improved access for residents and visitors to explore our quaint village on foot, while following the five Guiding Principles.
The Working Group unanimously supported three important safety improvements to the Main Street area. These improvements are (1) striping the 522/Main Street intersection bounded by the Estes House, Corner Store, and Zero Main; (2) upgrading and installing crosswalks on Main Street; and (3) replacing and realigning the Main Street bridge.
The Working Group examined a number of other ideas to improve pedestrian safety, including visual- ly narrowing the street, adding striping before business entrances, adding planters or speed bumps, removing street markings, and removing a sycamore tree. It was agreed that none of these changes would have a significant impact on safety concerns. It was concluded that closing Main Street to ve- hicular traffic, making it a one-way road, blocking the street in the middle, or further restricting truck access were impractical given the need to access homes, businesses, and the U.S. Post Office. There was unanimous agreement that “No Change” was not an option given the public safety needs of the community. A proposal to prohibit the use of truck air brakes to protect the solitude of our rural area was supported, to include installing signage along 522/211 in the area. An emailed comment sug- gested re-milling Main Street to lower the pavement and adding a curb along the sidewalk.

522/MAIN STREET INTERSECTION
The Working Group reviewed a number of suggestions concerning the 522/Main Street intersection, which is bounded by the Estes House, Corner Store, and the new construction at Zero Main. The Flint Hill and Sperryville Pedestrian Infrastructure Evaluation Memorandum, written for the Secretary of the Virginia Department of Transportation in July 2022, made several recommendations. The Work- ing Group deemed the recommendation to install a mini-roundabout impractical due to space re- quirements for turning cars and trucks. After an extended discussion, it was concluded that creating a 3-way stop at the intersection by adding a sign for westbound traffic on 522 had merit in calming traffic in the area and onto Main Street, but would cause significant traffic congestion on Sperryville Pike, delay vehicles turning left out of the Corner Store parking area, and back up traffic turning onto Sperryville Pike heading east.
The VDOT Memorandum recommended stripping or truck apron markings in the intersection to en- courage slower vehicular turning movements. The Working Group, however, preferred to consider the VDOT recommended treatment of stripped, raised markings throughout the entire intersection. Such markings would serve to highlight to drivers that this intersection has significant pedestrian and vehic- ular traffic, which requires increased attention to such activity. The Working Group did express con- cerns that such markings could encourage more careless pedestrian activity, as some might consider the area a pedestrian right-of-way.
MAIN STREET CROSSWALKS
The Working Group unanimously supported suggestions to enhance the existing crosswalk on Main Street and install three new crosswalks. Members of the Working Group supported improving the exist- ing crosswalk at the stop sign near Zero Main and Francis. Members proposed upgrading the crosswalk with cobblestones or a raised, textured treatment to indicate to drivers that they have entered a busy commercial/residential area with significant pedestrian traffic and turning vehicles. It is worth noting that this crosswalk, which was a textured, brick-patterned red walkway, was recently paved. It is no longer distinguished from the rest of the roadway.
Three new crosswalks were proposed along Main Street: (1) connecting the sidewalk in front of Stone- wall Abbey and Haley Gallery to the U.S. Post Office, (2) connecting the existing sidewalk to the Main Street entrance of the Sperryville River Walk between 31 Main (Before & After) and 29 Main Street, and
(3) from the Sperryville Volunteer Rescue Squad to 21 Main and the “Welcome to Sperryville” mural. The Working Group recommends that these crosswalks be cobblestone or similar raised, textured ma- terial and include in-street pedestrian right-of-way signs. These crosswalks would serve to connect the businesses and residents on the north side of Main Street with the existing sidewalk on the south side, making for a more pedestrian-friendly and safer experience. The presence of a raised crosswalk would indicate to drivers the presence of pedestrian activity.
The Working Group reviewed the recommendation to add chicanes to Main Street. While support for the idea was expressed, it was determined that Main Street was not wide enough to accommodate these calming treatments without causing traffic to move into opposing traffic or onto crosswalks. The Group also discussed improvements to the existing four-foot-wide sidewalk located directly on the roadway. While possible solutions were suggested, such as widening it to five feet or raising it above street level, none of the ideas proved practical. Finally, the Group supported replacing or covering the dangerously wide stormwater drains with applications that have small gaps.

MAIN STREET BRIDGE
Significant support was expressed to replace and realign the Main Street bridge to a traditional right angle with 211. The Working Group commented that by creating this right-angle turn from 211 to Main Street, it would slow traffic coming from the west, who currently simply bank onto Main Street. This realignment would also remove the dangerous right turns from Main onto 211, as well as difficult left turns onto Main Street. The Group proposed the new bridge include a pedestrian crossing and a cob- blestone or raised, textured strip similar to the proposed crosswalks to indicate to drivers that they are entering a commercial/residential area with potential pedestrian presence. While not part of the focus area, members of the Working Group expressed support for a sidewalk along the north side of 211 to connect Main Street with the residents and businesses along and north of 211.

HOMEWORK
The Working Group agreed to investigate some topics to gather more information to make decisions. These topics include:
Research intersection markings in other communities.
Review Main Street crosswalk locations to inform more specific locations.
Explore possible treatments to make the existing four-foot wide sidewalk on the south side of Main Street a safer pedestrian walkway.
Review Traffic Calming Guide for Neighborhood Streets by VDOT as it defines the number of additional traffic calming measures as well as describes the community process to implement infrastructure changes.
Safety Improvement Suggestions
MAIN STREET WORKING GROUP

Add 3-way stop at Corner Store
Traffic calming at Corner Store with striped, raised intersection
Install a mini-roundabout
Make existing crosswalks raised and textured
Install corner radius with stripping or truck apron to slow turning traffic
Visually narrow Main Street with planters and wider road markings
Remove street markings in Historic District
Prohibit use of air brakes in Sperryville
Codify Main Street as a pedestrian right of way
Install speed bumps on Main Street
Upgrade existing Main Street sidewalk
Add stripping enhancements at business entrances on Main Street
Install chicanes to narrow Main Street
Install cross walks across Main Street, at PO, B&A, 3B
Improve safety of street grates
Block Main Street in the middle
Make Main Street traffic one way eastbound
Reduce speed on Main Street from 25 mph
Restrict truck traffic in Sperryville
Remove sycamore tree on Main Street
Upgrade Main Street bridge with crosswalk
Replace and realign Main Street bridge to T-Up with 211
Add crosswalk across 211 from Main Street bridge
Install pedestrian bridge to connect Main Street to 211
Right-in-right-out 211 intersection with Main Street
Install RRFB at 211/Main Street crosswalk
No changes

The first meetings of the Sperryville Safety Working Groups were held on April 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, 2024, to review the list of suggestions made at various community meetings, online, and by transpor- tation experts. These initial meetings were held to assess the positive impact of each suggestion on making Sperryville a safer and more accessible community for pedestrians. The aim is to develop a community plan for implementation.
The “East Sperryville” Working Group reviewed 26 suggestions specific to changes along 522 from Waterpenny Lane, across the Estes Bridge, and along Sperryville Pike to the 231 intersection. The Working Group considered each item for its potential impact on improving safety for pedestrians, calming traffic, reclaiming our local roadways, and providing improved access for residents and visi- tors to explore our quaint village on foot, while following the five Guiding Principles.
The Working Group unanimously supported three significant changes to the transportation infra- structure along 522 in Sperryville. These changes include: (1) two roundabouts at the 522 intersec- tion with 211 near the Schoolhouse and Shaw’s Service Station and at the intersection with 231, (2) treatment to the 522 / Main Street intersection bounded by the Estes House, the Corner Store, and Zero Main, and (3) sidewalk extension on Sperryville Pike from the Corner Store to Reynold’s Baptist Church.
In addition to these significant changes, the Working Group discussed a number of other proposals. There was agreement that pole-mounted speed indicator signs played an important role in calm- ing traffic on 522. Members supported ensuring the indicator sign on Sperryville Pike remains at its currently location for west bound traffic. The Group questioned the removal of the speed indicator sign that was temporarily located on 522 / 211 and agreed to advocate for its return. In addition, the Group discussed a proposal to add a third speed indicator in Sperryville on Sperryville Pike to calm traffic heading east out of town. No decisions was made.
The Group acknowledged the value of enhanced gateways entering Sperryville on 522 from Warren- ton and on Sperryville Pike from Culpeper as a means to calm traffic by indicating to drivers they are entering a community. The recognized that community gateways are acknowledged by the VDOT as being effective in calming traffic, as reported in the VDOT Traffic Calming Guide for Neighborhood Streets. The current gateways signs that were added as part of the 1999 Sperryville Gateway Proj- ect are located near Waterpenny Lane and along Sperryville Pike near the driving range. Members suggested the gateways be significantly enhanced and the location of the gateway along 522 / 211 be moved closer to the village entrance.
Proposals to increase enforcement to include deploying a police car at Reynold’s Baptist Church, increasing enforcement of current speed limits on Sperryville Pike, adding speed cameras along Sperryville Pike, and allowing for speeding tickets be to issued for under 10 mph over the speed limit were deemed non-infrastructure and out-of-scope for this initiative. A proposal to move the 25-mph speed limit on Sperryville Pike further to the east was discussed but laid on the table given other pro- posals that would help achieve calming on this stretch of 522. Finally, members discussed the pro- posal to remove the passing lane on Sperryville Pike. They agreed to research VDOT regulations on passing lane requirements to better inform this discussion. Finally, the group recommended posting signs to bar the use of airbrakes along 522 to decrease the amount of traffic noise in the community. Members did note that recommendations on roundabouts may result in the lack of use of airbrakes if properly executed.
522 ROUNDABOUTS AT 211 AND 231
East Sperryville Working Group members were unanimous in their support for locating roundabouts on 522 at 211 intersection at Shaw’s Service Station and on 231. Members viewed these roundabouts as critical methods to significantly calm traffic in the community and to potentially reduce semi-truck passing thru the village. The Virginia Department of Transportation notes the benefits of round- abouts, include: (1) improved safety by reducing the number of points where vehicles cross paths, (2) increased efficiency with fewer stops, delays, and shorter queues, (3) safer speeds as it requires lower speeds and more time for drivers to react, and (4) improved aesthetics allowing for landscaping and beautification.
Such a roundabout at 211 would create an entrance to the village that would notify drivers of their presence in a community. A traffic roundabout would also provide more efficient means of traffic control at this important and busy intersection. The Group supported the recommendations and in- stalling pedestrian crosswalks to this corner and across to a possible sidewalk on the north side of 211 from the 522 intersection to Atkins Road. A discussion on how to walk from the village to this inter- section included the need for either a crosswalk on the Estes bridge, a walkway appended to the side of the bridge, or a path for the pedestrian bridge across the Thornton River to this intersection.
A second roundabout at intersection of 522 at 231 / F.T. Valley was also supported by the Working Group. This roundabout would slow traffic coming west into Sperryville, increase efficiency of traffic flow at this intersection, and potentially reduce the number of semi-truck traffic on 231. It was also suggested that this roundabout would help create the impression that drivers are entering a resident and business area. Designs on both traffic circles require the support of transportation engineers and experts.

TREATMENT TO 522 / MAIN STREET INTERSECTION
The Working Group discussed how to improve safety for pedestrians and vehicles at the 522 / Main Street intersection. This discussion include proposal to create a 3-way stop with an added sign on west bound Sperryville Pike traffic, the return of a flashing stop light, truck aprons and improved signage to highlight the unusual nature of this intersection. The Group decided that the proposal made in the VDOT Infrastructure Evaluation Memorandum to create a striped, raised marking in this intersection would be a first step to address the safety issues. Members stated that such a proposal should be implemented and evaluated to determine its value in improving safety.
Sperryville Pike Sidewalk. Every member of the Working Group expressed strong support for adding a sidewalk along the south side of Sperryville Pike as well as adding a storm water control system. It was stated that walking in this part of Sperryville with homes, businesses and churches is dangerous and limits any opportunity to walk the village. Members commented that they believe there was the proper right-of-way and enough space for a new sidewalk in this area.
With a new sidewalk, the Group supported the installation of a crosswalk across Sperryville Pike be- tween Reynold’s Baptist Church and the Rappahannock County Water and Sewer Access road. The crosswalk would allow access to the Sperryville trail network that currently runs on this road. This access would help unify and connect the village with safe and direct walking paths.
HOMEWORK
The Working Group agreed to investigate some topics to gather more information to make decisions. These topics include:
Determine VDOT criteria for adding/removing passing lanes of VA state highways to inform discus- sion about the 522 passing lane between 231 and Sperryville
Research ideal locations for enhanced Sperryville gateways on 522 / 211 and Sperryville Pike.
Review current signage at the 522 / Main Street intersection related to truck access, 2-way stop notice, and speed limit postings.
Review Traffic Calming Guide for Neighborhood Streets by VDOT as it defines the number of addi- tional traffic calming measures as well as describes the community process to implement infrastruc- ture changes.

Safety Improvement Suggestions
EAST SPERRYVILLE WORKING GROUP

Reduce speed limit on 211 from Old Hollow to 522/211 intersection
Install roundabout at 522 / 211 intersection
Add sidewalk access from the village to 211
Add crosswalks on 211 at Shaws and Main Street intersection
Add pedestrian refuge island on 211 near Shaws
Improve curb extension on 211 near Shaws
Modify corner at Shaws to slow traffic Add 3-way stop at Corner Store
Install a mini-roundabout
Install corner radius with stripping or truck apron to slow turning traffic
Install striped, raised markings in front of Corner Store
Prohibit use of air brakes in Sperryville
Move 25 mph speed limit sign toward 231.
Remove passing lane on 522 past Sperryville
Deploy police car at Reynolds
Increase enforcement of current speed limits
Increase police presence in Sperryville to enforce speed limit and truck restrictions
Add speed cameras on 522
Allow for tickets for under 10 miles over the limit
Extend sidewalk on Sperryville Pike, with storm water drainage system
Install crosswalk on 522 at Reynold’s Church to trailhead
Install lighted speed indicator signs
Install traffic circle at 522/321 intersection
Improve Sperryville gateways and relocate to better define Sperryville
Bypass around Sperryville
No changes

Complete list of recommendations made during the August 28, 2019 community meeting help at Stonewall Abbey to generate ideas to improve Sperryville pedestrian safety.

Rezone Sperryville from Corner Store east from “village” to “commercial” to allow for sidewalk extension
Reduce speed on 211 from Waterpenny thru commercial areas
Add crosswalks on Main Street
Make Main Street traffic one way
Improve Sperryville gateways and relocate to better define Sperryville
Add walking/biking lane along 211 from Main Street to the Park
Reduce speed on Main Street
Visually narrow Main Street with planters and wider road markings
Codify Main Street as a pedestrian right of way
Remove passing lane on 522 heading to 231
Increase police presence to enforce speed limit and truck restrictions
Remove street markings in Historic District
Add 3 way stop at Corner Store
Install lighted speed indicator signs
Add crosswalks on 211
Widen/change paint on Main Street
Restrict truck traffic in Sperryville
Install speed humps on Main Street
Move 25 mph speed limit sign toward 231

Comprehensive list of all recommendations made by the community and transportation experts to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility in Sperryville.

Add 3-way stop at Corner Store
Traffic calming at Corner Store with striped, raised intersection)
Install a mini-roundabout
Make existing crosswalks raised and textured
Install corner radius with stripping or truck apron to slow turning traffic
Visually narrow Main Street with planters and wider road markings
Remove street markings in Historic District
Prohibit use of air brakes in Sperryville
Codify Main Street as a pedestrian right of way
Install speed bumps on Main Street

Upgrade existing Main Street sidewalk
Add stripping enhancements at business entrances on Main Street
Install chicanes to narrow Main Street
Install cross walks across Main Street, at PO, B&A, 3B
Improve safety of street grates
Block Main Street in the middle
Make Main Street traffic one way eastbound
Reduce speed on Main Street from 25 mph
Restrict truck traffic in Sperryville
Remove sycamore tree on Main Street
Upgrade Main Street bridge with crosswalk
Replace and realign Main Street bridge to T-Up with 211
Add crosswalk across 211 from Main Street bridge
Install pedestrian bridge to connect Main Street to 211
Right-in-right-out 211 intersection with Main Street
Install RRFB at 211/Main Street crosswalk
No changes
Improve Sperryville gateways and relocate to better define Sperryville
Install lighted speed indicator signs
Increase enforcement of current speed limits
Install roundabout at 522 / 211 intersection
Increase police presence in Sperryville to enforce speed limit and truck restrictions
Add speed cameras on 522
Remove passing lane on 522 heading to 231
Allow for tickets for under 10 miles over the limit
Install traffic circle at 522/321 intersection
Three-way stop at Corner Store
Enhanced gateways
Extend sidewalk on Sperryville Pike
Bypass around Sperryville
Deploy police car at Reynolds
Rezone Sperryville from Corner Store east from “village” to “commercial” to allow for sidewalk extension.
Move 25 mph speed limit sign toward 231.
Sidewalk and drainage system proposed on Sperryville Pike from The Corner Store to Reynold’s Church
Crosswalk on 522 at Reynold’s Church to trailhead
Remove passing lane on 522 past Sperryville
Reduce speed limit on 211 from Old Hollow to 522/211 intersection
Add sidewalk access from the village to 211
Improve curb extension on 211 near Shaws
Install shoulder sidewalk proposed on 211 from 522 to Atkins Road
Add crosswalks on 211 at Shaws and Main Street intersection
Modify corner at Shaws to slow traffic
Add pedestrian refuge island on 211 near Shaws
Reduce speed on 211 from Shaws thru commercial areas
Add walking/biking lane along 211 from Main Street to the Park
Install pedestrian crossing signal
Install mirror on 211 at Main Street
Restrict right turn off Main
Install pedestrian bridge to connect Main Street to 211
T-up Main Street / 211 intersection
Walking trail along 211 and Thornton River B&B to Shaw
Remove passing lane on 211 near Off The Grid