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Virginia Byways - Frequently Asked Questions

Scenic Highways and Virginia Byways, Virginia 2007 Outdoor Plan

Waterfall Road Proposed for Virginia Scenic Byway Designation
1st Thursday Talk! April 3, 7:30 pm at Bull Run UU Church, 9250 Main Street, Manassas

Welcome remarks by Supervisor Peter Candland, Gainesville District and speakers:

  • Lynn Crump, RLA, Environmental Programs Planner, VA Dept. of Conservation and Recreation
  • Fulton deLamorton, Local Assistance, VA Dept. of Transportation
Waterfall Road
Waterfall Road

Scenic Byways tie landscapes together and connect people to the culture, history and natural resources of a particular place.

As such, the presentation of the Virginia Byways program will cover: why byways are important, what qualifies for a byway and how to get a road designated as a byway.

Virginia's Scenic Byway program recognizes that scenic roads are key community assets. Scenic road corridors with historic, natural, recreational or other intrinsic qualities are eligible for designation as a Scenic Byway. More than 3,500 miles of roads are designated as Virginia Byways now, including many miles in adjacent Fauquier County.

Once a road is awarded the Scenic Byway designation, it is included on Virginia's Map of Scenic Roads, the Virginia Scenic Roads website, the Virginia Outdoors Plan,  the DCR Scenic Byways website and the state's coordinated promotional tourism strategy to help stimulate local economies by attracting visitors. Driving for pleasure has ranked as one of the five most popular recreational activities for the past 40 years.”

The Scenic Byway designation can limit signage along federally identified road corridors, ensure environmental review for federal/state funded projects, restricts road expansion and could favorably impact property values in the surrounding area. It does not limit road improvements or affect land use controls.

As our local community develops around us, there will be fewer places of solace and calm. Waterfall Road affords both residents and tourists a unique opportunity to take a break from local highways and enjoy the simple beauty of a country road.

With its idylic view of the Bull Run Mountains, working farms, historic homes, and unique topography, Waterfall Road serves as a reminder of days long gone. Protecting our scenic byways is an inexpensive and forward-looking way to highlight Prince William's unique assets, promote tourism, protect open space, and build a bright future for County residents.