Board votes to remove eastern segment of Gloucester Parkway extension across Goose Creek

The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors voted March 4 to remove the eastern segment of the Gloucester Parkway extension—between Cochrane Mill Road and Belmont Ridge Road— from the Countywide Transportation Plan and asked staff to prepare the necessary map and text amendments for public hearings.

Why it matters: The Gloucester Parkway extension proposal would have crossed Goose Creek and required additional permanent roadway and bridge infrastructure in areas that residents and conservation groups said are environmentally sensitive. The board considered alternative scenarios and staff recommended retaining the western and central segments but removing the eastern segment that crosses Goose Creek.

Motion and vote Supervisor Turner moved that staff proceed with scenario 2—the removal of the eastern segment between Cochrane Mill Road and Belmont Ridge Road—and prepare the Countywide Transportation Plan amendments. The motion carried; the minutes show the vote passed 8–0–1 with Chair Randall off the dais.

Public and board comments Board members who represent nearby communities testified that residents were pleased with removing the segment that would have crossed Goose Creek. Environmental advocates had also urged removal to protect stream corridors and tree canopy.

Next steps Staff will prepare map and text amendments to the 2019 Countywide Transportation Plan for public hearings and the formal amendment process.

Provenance: The Gloucester Parkway segment discussion and vote occurred in the latter half of the March 4 business meeting.