Can Warrenton stay rural? (Charlottesville, Chantilly: new construction, utilities, maintenance)

[den330]

I've been reading different threads about how Warrenton is still rural and has been able to stop the urban sprawl. Can it stay that way considering how, I've also read here, Culpeper and Gainesville, both next door seem to be booming with new construction?

[ashbrn4]

Not likely since development is all around it. There are a lot of commuters who move out there and then don't want anyone else moving there which to me is selfish. There are a few families that own quite a bit of the land that is undeveloped, but it's only a matter of time til they start selling too. By keeping the area rural they will not be able to compete on any level (academically, job-wise)and as a result the area will not be able to maintain it's maintenance of current utilities, roads, etc. As it is, most residents of Warrenton travel to Manassas, Gainesville, Chantilly, Charlottesville, etc to spend their money. They will have to do something to keep the cash in Warrenton or they will suffer the same fate as the majority of small, rural towns across the country. There is a balance and stopping growth is not the way to do it.

[den330]

I wonder then whether the government is considering widening Rt.#29 foreseeing the need as more development is happening in Warrenton and beyond. As it is, it is already inadequate.

[DavidS827]

Originally Posted by den330

I wonder then whether the government is considering widening Rt.#29 foreseeing the need as more development is happening in Warrenton and beyond. As it is, it is already inadequate.

That wouldn't surprise me. With 66 going to 8 lanes and the new interechange starting shortly after that's done, my guess is that it will be another 10 years before we see it though.

Things should get much better though once Rollins Ford is extended from Vint Hill through Morris Farms all the way to Wellington and then on to 66.

[Electron]

I think Warrenton will see itself sprawl once old man Hazel dies. The man owns 4,000 acres in Faquier County, and his kids will chop it up and sell it off once he's gone.