Petition Description / Story:
To the Citizens of Hopewell and Chesterfield County:

If you drive across the Appomattox River Bridge every day, you probably haven't noticed anything unusual. That is because a growing public safety and environmental crisis is entirely hidden from the road, masked by the heavy overgrowth of surrounding trees and vegetation.

Behind that thick tree line, active and unmanaged encampments have been expanding along the riverbanks. Because the site is completely obscured from public view, it has stayed "out of sight, out of mind" for many residents—and it has allowed local and state agencies to pass the buck on who is responsible.

The Realities Behind the Tree Line:

The Jurisdictional Standstill: Because this area sits right on the border of multiple jurisdictions, local authorities are caught in a loop of confusion. While Hopewell, Chesterfield County, and VDOT debate who has official law enforcement and cleanup authority, the problem grows daily.
Hidden Safety Hazards: Tucked away right next to major roadways, these unmanaged sites present immediate public safety and fire hazards that threaten nearby neighborhoods and drivers.
Environmental Impact: The delicate ecosystem and waterways of the Appomattox River are facing direct, unmitigated damage from waste and debris that you cannot see from the asphalt.
Our Demand: We, the undersigned citizens, demand that Hopewell City Council, Chesterfield's Bermuda District Leadership, and VDOT immediately establish clear jurisdictional responsibility, step in, and execute a joint action plan to safely restore the public safety and environmental health of this area.

Just because it is hidden by vegetation doesn't mean it isn't our community's problem. Let’s bring this issue into the light and get it fixed. Sign today to make our voices too loud to ignore!