No formal action has been taken yet, but discussions are underway between VDOT and Richmond County that could ultimately result in the transfer of Jones Creek Landing to the county.

County Administrator Hope Mothershead told the Board of Supervisors that VDOT is preparing to move forward with rebuilding the pier in the coming months. A pretty substantial team has been working on making it a real asset for Richmond County, she said.

The new structure will be designed as a public fishing pier with features intended to make it more accessible and family friendly, including a kayak launch.

Once construction is completed, VDOT plans to transfer ownership of the landing to Richmond County. Before that transfer is finalized, the county will need to complete the state’s abandonment process for the end of the road. But Mothershead described the project as an exciting development to be able to offer county-owned public access at what was such a popular spot.

However, once the county takes over, full responsibility for maintenance and upkeep—including grass cutting, trash collection, and general site management— will shift to the county.

Mothershead expects the initial impact on the county budget to be modest. “I don’t think it will be a lot of expense for the first year,” she said, but added that she could include a line item in the county’s FY27 budget to account for some costs. She noted that the county’s maintenance department will handle general maintenance tasks.

Board Chairman Lee Sanders said that given how far out Jones Creek Landing is, and with the added demands for grass and trash maintenance, they may need to consider an additional hire, at least for the summer. Mothershead said she plans to have more conversations about the maintenance department soon.