Join

Road bill spurred by death of Stafford girl, 17, heads to Senate floor

A bill that will allow the county government to remove shrubbery from roadways that are blocking the view of drivers.

Currently, it’s the Virginia Department of Transportation’s job to clear overgrowth from the roads. The bill was introduced by Virginia Senator Richard Stuart (R-Stafford, Prince William), and Delegates Joshua Cole (D-28, Fredericksburg, Stafford) and Mark Cole (R-88, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania).

It comes after the death of Colonial Forge High School student Helen Wang, 17, who was killed May 6, 2019, on her 17th birthday after leaving a picnic at Abel Lake in Stafford County. As she tried to pull out of a boat ramp and onto Kellogg Mill Road, her view was obstructed by brush and she was struck and killed by an oncoming car.

Her death prompted action among Stafford County students who all lined up to lobby the county’s Board of Supervisors for improvements on many of the county’s two-lane roads. In November, county voters authorized the Board of Supervisors to spend up to $50 million to improve thoroughfares like Elon, Garrisonville, Layhill, Leeland, Morton, and Shelton Shop roads to name a few.

On Tuesday, those same students went to Richmond to testify in front of a Senate committee on the bill, where it was ultimately passed with 10 in support, and three abstentions to include Prince William County Senator Jeremy McPike (D-29). The bill now heads to the full Senate for approval.

Facebook post from Stafford County Supervisor Tom Coen |

Recent Stories

Most of the Spotsylvania County Board of Supervisors made it clear during a meeting Tuesday night they have no interest in joining a Regional Transportation Authority with Fredericksburg as well as Stafford, King George and Caroline counties, the Fredericksburg Free Press reports.

The region braces for unsettled weather patterns as a cold front sweeps eastward today, according to the National Weather Service.

“Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s veto of a bill that would have allowed young immigrants brought to the U.S. as children to become police officers was met with disappointment from Prince William County Police Chief Peter Newsham, who pushed for the measure and went to Richmond to support it.”

Fire and rescue crews were called to a fire at Lake Ridge Orthodontics today, Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at 5:31 a.m.

Are you facing life’s challenges, feeling overwhelmed, or seeking personal growth? Embrace the path to emotional well-being with our expert psychotherapy services!

Why Choose Us?

Our team of compassionate and experienced psychotherapists is here to guide you on your journey to inner peace, self-discovery, and positive change. We provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Dreaming of small-town charm with big-city convenience? Look no further than 7156 Main St in Clifton, Virginia! Nestled just 30 miles from the heart of Washington D.C., this picturesque property offers the best of both worlds.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city to find tranquility in this quaint, historic town. With its tree-lined streets and friendly community atmosphere, Clifton is the perfect place to call home. Yet, with its close proximity to the nation’s capital, you’ll never be far from the excitement and opportunities of urban living.

Imagine weekends exploring local shops, dining at charming cafes, and enjoying outdoor adventures in nearby parks. Then, commute to D.C. for work or play, soaking in all the culture, entertainment, and career opportunities the city has to offer.

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Van Metre 5K Run

Participate in the 32nd Annual Van Metre 5K Run, a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, and every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and

×

Subscribe to our mailing list