Westmoreland supervisors delay road-name change; staff told to re-advertise 'Southern Way'

The Westmoreland County Board of Supervisors paused action on a petition to rename a short right-of-way off Rappahannock Road and directed staff to re-advertise the name 'Southern Way' before taking final action in November.

Staff presented the case for a name change, saying the current numbering prevented sequential addresses and left no room for additional properties. Staff also noted the board’s naming code requires the proposed name be advertised twice in a local newspaper and that petitioners are responsible for notifying adjacent property owners and covering address-change costs.

Several property owners attended the public hearing and spoke about costs and the effect on addresses. One resident asked, “If they change the name, does it become a county-maintained highway road? Do you guys do anything just except put up a sign?” Staff replied the right of way is already dedicated and the county’s action would place a sign; property owners remain responsible for notification costs.

Board members discussed options. Some supervisors said the board has discretion to select a different name than the staff recommendation but noted that a different name would require re-advertising the alternative and holding another public hearing. After questions about the timetable for newspaper notices, the board directed staff to re-advertise 'Southern Way' and carry the item to the regular November meeting for a subsequent public hearing and possible action.

No final name change was adopted at the meeting; staff will re-advertise and return to the board in November for further action.