Latest News

Cork Street Enhancement Project

Feb 18, 2014

The City of Winchester is planning to improve the sidewalks along the south side of East Cork Street from Pleasant Valley to East Lane (2,000 linear feet). 
A project has been proposed to partner with six property owners on Cork Street to upgrade their fencing and possibly widen the sidewalk to create a safer route for our pedestrians. 

Take Control of Your Driving Future

Feb 17, 2014

The Winchester Police Department wants mature drivers to take control of their driving future.  Older drivers, those who are 70-years-old and older, make up 10 percent of all licensed drivers in the U.S.  Age alone is not enough to indicate a safe driver, in fact, statistically elderly are the safest group of drivers, however, even the most experienced and competent drivers need to refresh their driving skills as they age.  It is normal for our driving abilities to change as we age.  By reducing risk factors and incorporating safe driving practices, many of us can continue driving safely we

Snow removal efforts continue

Feb 14, 2014

The City is continuing to dig out of the large storm that dumped approximately 20 inches of snow on the Winchester area this week. Snow crews have been working 12-hour shifts around the clock since Wednesday evening and are now focusing on clearing the smaller secondary streets.
Removing Snow from DowntownOn Saturday, February 15th between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm, crews will be hauling snow away from the downtown area including the following streets (in order as listed):1. Piccadilly Street2. Braddock Street3. Boscawen Street4. Cork Street5. Cameron Street

City declares state of emergency

Feb 13, 2014

At 4:00 am this morning, City Manager Dale Iman made a Declaration of Emergency for the City of Winchester.  Accordingly, Snow Plan “B” is in effect and Snow Plan “C” will be implemented this afternoon at 4:00 pm.  Additionally, all non-essential services are cancelled and the Emergency Operations Center will begin operations at noon today.
Emergency Operations Center

Statewide tornado drill scheduled for March 11th

Feb 11, 2014

On Saturday, January 11, 2013 three tornadoes struck southeastern Virginia. Fortunately, there were no fatalities or injuries but property damage did occur. This speaks to the fact that weather patterns are changing and that there is no tornado season in Virginia. To help increase awareness, a statewide tornado drill has been scheduled for March 11, 2014 at 9:45 am.
The City of Winchester government offices will participate in this exercise and evaluate their state of preparedness following the drill.

Public information meeting for proposed Cork St enhancement project

Feb 11, 2014

The Winchester community is invited to attend a public information meeting concerning a proposed project aimed at enhancing the East Cork Street gateway into Old Town.  This proposal includes specific improvements such as new sidewalks and fencing along the south side of East Cork Street between South Pleasant Valley Road and the CSX rail crossing.  
When:              Monday, February 17, 7:00-8:00 pm
Where:            Council Chambers, Rouss City Hall, Main Floor, 15 North Cameron Street

Governor Declares State of Emergency As Winter Storm Approaches

Feb 11, 2014

Governor Terry McAuliffe declared a state of emergency today, an action that authorizes state agencies to be ready to assist local governments in responding to the major snow storm that is forecast to hit the Commonwealth starting tomorrow.
In declaring a state of emergency, the governor authorizes state agencies to identify and position resources for quick response anywhere they are needed in Virginia.

Historic Preservation Contributes to Virginia’s Economy

Feb 07, 2014

VCU Study Finds Historic Preservation Contributes to Virginia’s Economy by Upwards of $3.9 Billion During 17 Years
Source: Press release from Preservation Winchester, February 5, 2014
—First study to assess economic impact of state and federal historic rehabilitation tax credits in Virginia—
— State tax credits drew reliable investment in rehabilitation-based construction during Great Recession, 2007-2009 study shows—

Celebrate Charles B. Rouss’ birthday on Feb. 11th

Feb 05, 2014

On February 11, 2014, the City of Winchester will honor one of Winchester’s most generous citizens, Charles Broadway Rouss. 
Activities for 2014 include:
All February long – C.B. Rouss display (Handley Library Archives)
February 11th
11:30 am – Wreath Laying at C.B. Rouss’ Mausoleum (Mt. Hebron Cemetery, meet at entrance gate)
1:00-2:00 pm – Birthday Cupcakes with Mayor Minor (Rouss City Hall, main floor)
5:15 pm & 6:00 pm – Guided Historical Tours of Rouss City Hall by Tim Youmans

Care Bags to be Handed Out to Homeless

Feb 05, 2014

A Winchester philanthropy group wants to ensure area homeless residents are not going without some essential care items. 
The group donated 80 bags to the Winchester Police Department for officers to hand out to residents they come in contact with who are without a roof over their heads.  The bags contain water, crackers, a flashlight, a pair of socks, hand warmers, personal hygiene items, and a contact sheet with local resources listed.  Students at the Boys and Girls Club made cards that have inspirational messages to include in the bags.