Henry County is entering the final stages of updating its Comprehensive Plan, with recent discussions confirming broad public support and only minor refinements identified through the community feedback process.
During its latest review on Feb. 23, the Board of Supervisors and Planning Commission examined comments gathered from the public open house and the County’s online feedback form.
Stephanie Mathena, a senior planner with the Berkley Group, reported that all catalyst strategies presented to the public received agreement, with no formal objections submitted by the Virginia Department of Transportation. Lee Clark, the Director of Planning, Zoning & Inspection for Henry County, noted the updated plan reflects extensive community engagement and represents a significant modernization of the county’s long-range planning framework.
Public input prompted additional discussion in several targeted areas. Members of the Board of Supervisors and Planning Commission emphasized the importance of continuing to advocate for the full development and activation of Mayo River State Park. While the park is already mentioned in the draft plan, the two boards signaled interest in strengthening language to ensure the County’s support remains clear and the project stays visible in ongoing state-level conversations.
Feedback also highlighted interest in expanding affordable assisted living options following the closure of Mulberry Creek. Planning staff advised that the plan’s existing senior housing framework already accommodates assisted living uses, and the members of the Planning Commission agreed that the current language provides appropriate flexibility while remaining consistent with the County’s updated zoning approach.
Additional public comments focused on recreation and river access, including continued investment in the Dick & Willie Trail and the potential for expanded canoe access along the Smith River. After discussion, the joint working group supported maintaining the plan’s broader strategy, calling for expanded water access points, trails, and waterfront recreation facilities. Members noted that keeping the language general preserves the County’s ability to pursue the most feasible and cost-effective opportunities as they arise.
Dr. Pam Cobler, representative of the Reed Creek District, raised the importance of accessibility in the final published document. Mathena confirmed the Comprehensive Plan will be released in an accessible digital format, and the Berkley Group will review opportunities to strengthen accessibility language where appropriate.
With only minor adjustments anticipated, the Comprehensive Plan is now approaching the public hearing phase. The Planning Commission is expected to hold its public hearing on May 13 before forwarding the document to the Henry County Board of Supervisors for final consideration on May 26.
