
On Sunday, July 21, 2024, eleven THS members and friends participated in a work session with the Virginia Chapter of the American Planning Association. The organization was holding its annual meeting in Williamsburg, and their custom is to offer a free work session with a local jurisdiction to discuss issues of interest, concern, or importance. This year, they chose the Toano Historical Society.
The group of planners who donated their time to work with us is called the Community Planning Action Team (CPAT). They are professional planners from various jurisdictions throughout Virginia and have a wealth of experience and expertise. The session began at 2:00pm with a walking tour of downtown Toano, discussion of our history, and an update on progress to date in revitalizing our community. We then gathered inside the Martin & Farinholt Store to discuss challenges and strategies.
Topics included traffic on Richmond Road, speed limit changes, a traffic light, enlisting VDOT assistance and establishing increased awareness of our issues with the JCC Board of Supervisors. It should be noted that Barbara Null, the Stonehouse representative on the BOS spent the entire after noon with us and provided very positive feedback. THS is grateful for the expertise shared by CPAT and for the participation of all who attended the work session.