How global ideas from Rio are shaping the future of Main Street, the Waterfront, and our community.

When I boarded the plane to Rio de Janeiro for the C40 World Mayors Summit, I wasn’t just representing myself — I was representing Dumfries, Virginia, the oldest chartered town in the Commonwealth and one of its most forward-thinking.

Standing alongside mayors and city leaders from around the world, I saw firsthand how local governments are tackling global challenges: cleaner air, safer streets, cooler neighborhoods, and stronger economies. And what I realized is this — the same vision driving those global cities is already alive in Dumfries.

Sharing the Dumfries Story with the World

In Rio, I had the honor of sharing how Dumfries has transformed over the past few years — from closing a landfill early and turning it into a public park, to welcoming The Rose Gaming Resort, and launching new economic initiatives through our Economic Development Authority.

When leaders heard about the Luke and Clarice Torian Overlook Park — once a landfill, now set to open next year as a beautiful public space — it sparked real interest. Many were amazed that a small town like ours is modeling sustainable growth and environmental renewal in such a bold way.

Dumfries stood out because we’re not just talking about change — we’re living it.

Key Lessons from the C40 Summit

Here are three takeaways that hit home and align perfectly with our local priorities:

1. Cooler, Safer, More Connected Communities
   Cities across the world are designing “cool” communities — adding shade, tree canopy, and walkable streets that keep people safe and comfortable. These ideas will shape our Main Street Small Area Plan, where we’re reimagining the heart of our town to be more people-centered and vibrant.
2. Clean Air and Healthier Neighborhoods
   Initiatives like “Breathe Cities” reminded me that air quality is about more than the environment — it’s about family health. As we begin work on the Waterfront Small Area Plan, we’ll keep environmental stewardship at the core, ensuring Dumfries remains a place where clean air and community well-being go hand in hand.
3. Green Jobs and Local Opportunity
   Around the world, sustainability projects are creating new jobs. The same can happen here — whether through park maintenance, infrastructure upgrades, or eco-tourism at our future waterfront. A greener Dumfries is also a more economically resilient Dumfries.

What’s Next for Dumfries

Big changes are on the horizon:

• The Route 1 Widening Project is expected to begin construction in 2026, opening the door for safer travel, new design, and local control of our main corridor.
• Our Main Street and Waterfront Small Area Plans will guide how Dumfries grows — balancing development with history, community, and character.
• The Luke and Clarice Torian Overlook Park will soon open as a visible symbol of transformation and purpose — proof that what was once a challenge can become a community treasure.

These projects reflect what we’re learning globally: every action toward sustainability also builds pride, jobs, and belonging.

Bringing the Conversation Home

In the coming months, we’ll be inviting community feedback as we finalize both the Main Street and Waterfront Small Area Plans. Your ideas and voices will shape the Dumfries we’re building together.

I’m looking forward to continuing these discussions with our Town Council, regional partners, and residents as we take the next steps toward a more connected, sustainable, and thriving town.

In Rio, the world saw Dumfries as a symbol of what’s possible — proof that leadership doesn’t depend on size; it depends on vision.

And our vision is clear: to turn the oldest town in Virginia into the model town for tomorrow.