Last week, C-VILLE spoke with the two Scottsville candidates for the Albemarle County Supervisor seat currently occupied by Lindsay Dorrier, who proved to be the swing vote that kickstarted the Western Bypass’ approval.
"Even though the Western Bypass is not a huge issue down here in the Scottsville District—that is, its construction or failure to be constructed won’t do much to change the traffic patterns in the district or the day-to-day lives of its residents—many people do have strong opinions on it," says Democratic candidate Christopher Dumler. "I’m sure at least some people will base their votes on it."
And the two candidates for Dorrier’s long-held spot would send those votes in different directions. While Dumler and Republican candidate Jim Norwood both emphasized the need for job opportunities and a strong county tax base, the pair is split on the bypass—meaning that, had the vote happened after November, the result might’ve been very different.
"This is a responsible decision that’s made for the long-term," said Norwood. "What was not discussed today is the incredible positive impact this Western Bypass is going to have on the economic development of Charlottesville."
Dumler said that many residents in Scottsville can shop in Waynesboro or Zion’s Crossroads rather than face the traffic en route to Hollymead, but added that such moves may hurt employment numbers and county tax revenue. He said he does not believe the bypass "is the most efficient, cost-effective way to solve this issue," and emphasized that Places 29 proposed changes to the 29 Corridor that were less costly than the bypass.
"If I saw studies proving that the Western Bypass was that most effective, efficient route to solve our local congestion issues, I would support the bypass," said Dumler. "But I haven’t seen those studies yet."
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