New Market staff recommend $86,521 contract with EPR for 14‑month comprehensive plan update

Town staff presented a proposal on Jan. 5 to update New Market’s comprehensive plan and economic development strategy, recommending EPR — Engineering and Planning Resources, a Virginia-based planning and engineering firm, to lead the work.

Mrs. Medina said the last major comprehensive plan update was in 2012 with a partial update in 2017, and staff view a new plan as a 20–25-year policy framework to guide land use, growth and reinvestment. Mr. Garrison described EPR’s proposed 14-month schedule and public-engagement strategy, which includes a steering committee, up to five public events, a community survey, monthly updates, and a live interactive website. The scope also includes a market analysis, downtown strategy, transportation review requiring VDOT screening, and four strategic opportunity areas with two advancing to detailed mini-plans.

The proposal price is $86,521.25. Mr. Garrison told the joint session that the firm’s communications and community-outreach approach were a key factor in selection and that the firm has experience working with small towns and regional partners. He said the council will vote on whether to approve the contract at its January meeting.

Commissioners asked procedural questions about next steps and use of the existing plan as baseline material. Several commissioners expressed support: Mr. Mongold called the update "grossly needed," and Mr. Wine emphasized the value of community input. If approved, staff will convene a steering committee and begin the public-engagement schedule described by EPR’s proposal.