Save The Hump in Cape Charles, Virginia

Recent signers:
Jean Steffens and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Cape Charles, Virginia, holds a gem that many of us hold dear: The Hump. It’s more than just a crossing; it’s a sanctuary, a retreat where peace finds us no matter what mood we ride in with. Countless people have made their pilgrimage over The Hump, whether it’s by car, truck, bicycle, or simply walking. On one side, the horizon offers us the most breathtaking sunset that colors our thoughts with tranquility; on the other, a stately lighthouse-themed water tower draws our eyes in awe. This ‘Historic Hump’ is not just a landmark but a shared memory and experience. But now, the risk of losing this cherished place looms over us.

The Hump serves everything from transportation needs to being a beautiful escape for locals and visitors alike. It’s a substantial part of Cape Charles' character, interwoven into the cultural and emotional fabric of our community life. Destroying The Hump means destroying a testimony to the countless experiences and emotions ignited here on this sacred stretch. People come here to reflect, to rejoice, to mourn, and to dream. Each transit over The Hump has a story, a purpose, and a sentiment attached.

Unfortunately, some plans threaten its existence, driven by interests that do not resonate with the community’s sentiment. These interests overlook the importance of historical preservation. Our memories and mental well-being are intertwined with this serene place, and we can’t let arbitrary decisions rob us of that. According to studies, access to tranquil environments significantly contributes to community mental health and overall life satisfaction. Preserving The Hump is not a roadside frivolity; it's essential for maintaining the quality of life and happiness for Cape Charles residents.

Together, we can propose responsible alternatives that maintain The Hump’s integrity while addressing other necessary community developments. Historical landmarks like this are finite resources steeped not just in our past, but in our ongoing dialogues with the land around us. By gathering enough support, showing these planners our numbers and our stories, we force them to listen and consider what truly matters.

Join us in our mission to save The Hump, preserve our past, and protect our future. Your signature is more than an inscription; it's a stand for history, for community, and for every person who finds peace at The Hump. Let us make our voices heard and ensure this beloved landmark remains for future generations to cherish. Sign this petition, share our story, and let’s work together to save what truly matters.

379

Recent signers:
Jean Steffens and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Cape Charles, Virginia, holds a gem that many of us hold dear: The Hump. It’s more than just a crossing; it’s a sanctuary, a retreat where peace finds us no matter what mood we ride in with. Countless people have made their pilgrimage over The Hump, whether it’s by car, truck, bicycle, or simply walking. On one side, the horizon offers us the most breathtaking sunset that colors our thoughts with tranquility; on the other, a stately lighthouse-themed water tower draws our eyes in awe. This ‘Historic Hump’ is not just a landmark but a shared memory and experience. But now, the risk of losing this cherished place looms over us.

The Hump serves everything from transportation needs to being a beautiful escape for locals and visitors alike. It’s a substantial part of Cape Charles' character, interwoven into the cultural and emotional fabric of our community life. Destroying The Hump means destroying a testimony to the countless experiences and emotions ignited here on this sacred stretch. People come here to reflect, to rejoice, to mourn, and to dream. Each transit over The Hump has a story, a purpose, and a sentiment attached.

Unfortunately, some plans threaten its existence, driven by interests that do not resonate with the community’s sentiment. These interests overlook the importance of historical preservation. Our memories and mental well-being are intertwined with this serene place, and we can’t let arbitrary decisions rob us of that. According to studies, access to tranquil environments significantly contributes to community mental health and overall life satisfaction. Preserving The Hump is not a roadside frivolity; it's essential for maintaining the quality of life and happiness for Cape Charles residents.

Together, we can propose responsible alternatives that maintain The Hump’s integrity while addressing other necessary community developments. Historical landmarks like this are finite resources steeped not just in our past, but in our ongoing dialogues with the land around us. By gathering enough support, showing these planners our numbers and our stories, we force them to listen and consider what truly matters.

Join us in our mission to save The Hump, preserve our past, and protect our future. Your signature is more than an inscription; it's a stand for history, for community, and for every person who finds peace at The Hump. Let us make our voices heard and ensure this beloved landmark remains for future generations to cherish. Sign this petition, share our story, and let’s work together to save what truly matters.

Support now

379


The Decision Makers

Rick Keuroglian
Rick Keuroglian
Town Manager
Responded
PRESS RELEASE: Clarification re "The Hump" and the Railroad & Harbor Master Planning Process News Release Date: 02-02-2026 The Town of Cape Charles is aware of recent social media discussion and public concern regarding the potential removal of “The Hump” on Old Cape Charles Road (Rte. 642). The Town would like to clearly state that no decision has been made to remove The Hump, and no such action has been approved by Town Council. The current discussion is occurring within the context of the Railroad & Harbor Master Planning effort, which is being facilitated by The Berkley Group. This planning process is intended to serve as a long-range, guided document that explores potential opportunities and constraints for how the Town may evolve over the next 20 years. A Master Plan does not authorize construction, removal of infrastructure, or immediate changes. Any future action would require additional studies, public input, coordination with external agencies, and formal Council approval. The Berkley Group met with the Project Management Team and hosted two Community Engagement sessions on January 13, 2026, where public feedback was invited and recorded. During those sessions, the topic of “The Hump” was raised by Town Staff as part of a public engagement process. These discussions were exploratory in nature and intended to gather community perspectives — not to signal a predetermined outcome. It is also important to note that The Hump is not owned by the Town of Cape Charles. It is owned and maintained by the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT). Any potential changes involving The Hump would require coordination with VDOT and would follow a separate, formal review and approval process. The next meeting of the Project Management Team will take place on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. as a virtual meeting. Citizens are welcome to attend and participate at the Civic Center. Public engagement remains a critical and valued part of this planning effort. The Town encourages residents to remain engaged, ask questions, and participate directly in the planning process. Accurate information will continue to be shared through official Town communication channels as the Master Plan progresses. For additional information, residents may visit the Town website www.capecharles.org or contact the Town Manager at townmanager@capecharles.org. https://www.capecharles.org/planning-zoning/page/press-release-clarification-re-hump-and-railroad-harbor-master-planning
Adam Charney
Cape Charles Town Mayor
Ian Brenson
Northampton County School Board - District 5
Tara Ashworth
Tara Ashworth
Town Councilmember

Supporter Voices

Petition updates
Share this petition
Petition created on January 30, 2026