Petition to Preserve the Rural Character and Agricultural Economy of Red Brush Road

The Red Brush Road community is part of the rural landscape that makes Rockingham County and the Shenandoah Valley unique. This area is home to working farms, family residences, agricultural businesses, and scenic views that contribute to the local economy and quality of life. Many farms and small businesses rely on the rural character of this community to support direct-to-consumer agriculture, agritourism, photography, farm stays, roadside markets, and other local enterprises.

A proposal has been submitted to construct a telecommunications tower on Red Brush Road. While reliable communication infrastructure is important, its placement should be carefully considered to minimize unnecessary impacts on surrounding agricultural operations, rural businesses, neighboring properties, and the scenic character of our community.

The proposed tower would introduce a highly visible industrial structure into an area defined by farmland and open countryside. This change has the potential to diminish the rural views that attract visitors and support local agricultural tourism. Farms and small businesses throughout the area have invested significant time and resources into building businesses that depend on preserving the scenic and agricultural character of the Shenandoah Valley.

The proposed location may also negatively affect nearby property owners and rural businesses by altering the character of the surrounding landscape. Studies have found that the visual impact of large utility structures can influence buyer perception and, in some cases, property values. Regardless of the exact degree of impact, neighboring landowners should not bear the burden of avoidable economic consequences when reasonable alternative locations may exist. It is important to note that the current land owner does not reside on the property and will not have a direct daily impact as to those who live and work here. 

This petition is not intended to oppose improved telecommunications service. Rather, it asks that the proposed tower be relocated to a site that better balances infrastructure needs with the protection of agriculture, small businesses, private property, and the scenic resources that make this community a desirable place to live, work, and visit.

We respectfully ask the Rockingham County Board of Supervisors and Planning Commission to deny the current application for the proposed telecommunications tower on Red Brush Road and encourage the applicant to pursue an alternative location that minimizes impacts on surrounding farms, businesses, residences, and the rural landscape.

By signing this petition, you affirm your support for preserving the agricultural heritage, scenic beauty, rural economy, and property rights of the Red Brush Road community.