News
CSPDC Initiates Rural EV Charging Infrastructure Study
The Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission (CSPDC) has begun a Rural EV Charging Infrastructure Study as part of its Rural Transportation Program. The study aims to assess and plan for electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure needs in the region’s rural areas. According to Virginia EV Driving data, there are currently 865 EV-driving residents in the non-MPO, rural parts of the CSPDC Region. These drivers collectively travel an average of 25,000 miles on a typical weekday and studies indicate this number is likely to increase significantly over the next decade.
This study will help strategically plan for infrastructure development by identifying optimal locations for EV charging stations, assessing grid capacity, and developing implementation strategies tailored to the unique needs of the PDC’s rural areas. The study will also involve collaborating with Virginia Clean Cities, VDOT Office for Transportation Sustainability, and localities for gathering local data and perspectives.
The study is expected to conclude in March 2025, with regular updates provided to the Rural Transportation Technical Advisory Committee. For more information, please email Garreth Bartholomew, Transportation Planner (garreth@cspdc.org).
Goodloe Joins CSPDC Staff
Elizabeth Goodloe joined the CSPDC as our newest Regional Planner on October 1. She recently transitioned to the PDC from Albemarle County where she did site plan review and drafted ordinances. Elizabeth previously worked as Planner for Augusta County working closely with Augusta County’s Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance and affiliated agencies to make land use recommendations for rezonings, evaluated request for solar projects, researched and drafted ordinance amendment to the zoning code. Elizabeth did her undergraduate work at the University of Mary Washington in Historic Preservation with an emphasis in Planning. Elizabeth is originally from Staunton, VA and now resides in Churchville, VA. In her free time, she enjoys going to coffee shops, seeking out new hiking trails, and running through Staunton. She is looking forward to assisting the PDC and the region to create healthy environments and opportunities.
CSPDC Hosts Graduate Assistant for 2024-2025 Year
The Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission (CSPDC) is excited to announce the addition of Hardi Kamali as a Graduate Assistant. Hardi brings a wealth of experience and a unique skill set to his role at the CSPDC.
Currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration (MPA) at James Madison University (JMU), Hardi has an impressive background in humanitarian work, particularly in post-conflict regions of the Middle East and Africa. His certifications and training in conflict resolution, emergency response, operational information management, and livelihood projects have equipped him with the tools to navigate complex challenges in global development and public policy. In addition to his humanitarian work, Hardi has experience as a political news correspondent, where he focused on U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East.
The CSPDC has hosted undergraduate and graduate interns in the past, but this is the first time partnering with JMU to serve as a host agency for a full-year assistantship. Through this partnership the student gets an opportunity to apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings while providing support to CSPDC staff on a variety of programs and projects. The collaboration between CSPDC and JMU strengthens ties between academia and local government, creating opportunities for mutual learning and community collaboration.
Hardi lives in Rockingham County with his wife and three children. Upon graduation, he hopes to use his MPA degree to engage local communities, address public issues, and develop effective solutions that enhance public policy and administration.
Please join us in welcoming Hardi to the CSPDC. We look forward to his contributions to the commission’s work in supporting the communities of the Central Shenandoah region.
45th Annual Rural Planning Caucus Conference
From October 16-18, 2024, the Rural Planning Caucus (RPC) of Virginia will hold its 45th annual conference at the historic Mountain Lake Lodge in Pembroke, VA. This year’s event will spotlight the Town of Vinton and delve into topics such as rural transportation, recreation, zoning enforcement, artificial intelligence, and legislative challenges.
In addition to engaging in discussions on rural resiliency, attendees can look forward to an annual hike and live music during the three-day gathering.
Founded in 1978 in Blacksburg, VA, the Rural Planning Caucus serves as a vital resource for planning professionals in rural and small-town settings. The organization promotes the exchange of ideas and information on planning issues that impact Virginia’s rural communities and landscapes. The RPC celebrates its 46th anniversary in 2024.
For more information and registration, visit https://rpcva.org/.
Bath-Highland Network Authority Public Notice of a Meeting
On October 9th, 2024, at 1:00 pm, the Bath-Highland Network Authority will hold a meeting at the Bolar Ruritan Club, 38 Bolar Lane, Monterey, VA 24465. For more information about the meeting, please contact Rachel Kinzer at 540-885-5174 or rachel@cspdc.org.