Virginia Senate Bill SB1131

Virginia 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/7/25
• Refer: 1/7/25
• Report Pass: 1/16/25
• Engrossed: 1/21/25
• Refer: 2/4/25

Caption

Abandonment of highways and roads; consideration of alternative use.

Impact

If enacted, SB1131 would directly influence how highways and cross-sections are managed by local regulatory authorities, thereby potentially enhancing local control over this aspect of transportation infrastructure. This shift could allow for more efficient management of resources, as sections of roadways or crossings deemed unnecessary could be repurposed for other uses, such as recreational trails and greenway corridors. Furthermore, the bill's provisions aimed at public notices and hearings ensure that community voices are heard in decisions about transportation infrastructure within their localities.

Summary

Senate Bill 1131 seeks to amend sections of the Code of Virginia regarding the abandonment of highways, public landings, and railroad crossings. The proposed changes are aimed at establishing clearer procedures for local governing bodies to follow when they deem a section of a highway or crossing unnecessary for public use. The bill enables local governments and interested landowners to petition for abandonment, governing the notice required and the process for public hearings that must occur if petitions are filed. It also emphasizes the necessity of evaluating public necessity and safety in the decision to abandon these routes.

Contention

However, the bill could also spark contention regarding community safety and historical value concerns. Advocates may argue the need for a thorough evaluation process before deciding on the abandonment of public routes, especially in areas of historical significance. Critics might raise concerns that rushing into abandonments could lead to adverse community impacts, including reduced accessibility and the potential loss of heritage sites. The balance between necessary updates to infrastructure and preservation of community needs is expected to be a significant point of discussion among stakeholders.