On a heartbreaking evening around 10:30 p.m., our community lost Elizabeth “Liz” Chong, a bright and cherished 16-year-old, in a fatal crash. This loss has deeply impacted many families and has prompted a thoughtful conversation about how we can improve roadway safety and prevent future tragedies.

In response, we respectfully ask the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) to evaluate Pleasant Valley Road, from the beginning of Route 29 to Braddock Road, and consider implementing proven traffic-calming measures that encourage safer driving through roadway design, not signage alone.

Recommended measures include:

Rumble Strips to alert drivers and encourage speed reduction near curves and higher-risk areas
Speed Feedback Signs to increase driver awareness and voluntary compliance
Enhanced Speed Limit Signage placed more consistently along the corridor
Raised Traffic-Calming Features at Pedestrian Crossings to naturally slow vehicles and improve pedestrian safety

These strategies align with Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) guidance and VDOT’s own safety practices. By taking proactive steps, we can make this roadway safer for everyone who uses it.

We invite our community members to support this effort by signing the petition. Please help to advocate for meaningful improvements, honor Liz’s memory, and help ensure safer roads for all.