March 19, 2021

Operation Vaccinate the Peninsula Launches, Proposed FY22 Budget Presented, and Trolley Back in Service

“Operation Vaccinate the Peninsula” Collaborative Effort Announced
On Monday, a partnership was announced between the Peninsula and Hampton Health Districts, Peninsula localities, and Health Systems—Bon Secours, Riverside, and Sentara.  Named “Operation Vaccinate the Peninsula,” the goal of this collaboration and creation of a unified command structure, is to speed up the vaccination process and provide community members with timely information that may help them make decisions about their health and well-being. The press release, issued by the Virginia Department of Health on behalf of all team member organizations and localities, is available to view on our COVID-19 Connection.

First Shredding Event of 2021 a HUGE Hit!
Last year, citizens requested additional shredding events, and York County made it happen! Now held in conjunction with the Household Chemical Collection/Computer Recycling event, 8,000 pounds of paper (that’s four TONS!) was dropped off by citizens at this first event. VPPSA, which operates the Household Chemical Collection/Computer Recycling event, received just over 500 cars, which is an increase of about 150 vehicles over the March average. The next shredding event in York County is Saturday, April 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. as part of the Drug Take Back, held at the Public Works offices, 105 Service Drive. Reminders will be shared prior to the event. The next Household Chemical Collection/Computer Recycling event in York County is scheduled for May 8.  As a reminder, member communities may attend any VPPSA drop-off. See the VPPSA website for additional dates in York County, Williamsburg/James City County, Hampton, and Poquoson.
 
Boaters, Take Note:  Rodgers A. Smith Boat Landing Repairs March 22-24
This popular boat landing, located at 705 Tide Mill Road, is closing a few days next week for required parking lot repairs.  A great alternative boat launch site is Back Creek Park, located at 3000 Goodwin Neck Road.  In addition to the boat launching, Back Creek Park has a canoe/kayak launch, picnic tables, a crabbing pier, and more. Small boat facilities, including kayak/canoe areas, are also available at New Quarter Park (1000 Lakeshead Drive) and Old Wormley Creek Landing (1110 Old Wormley Creek Road).  For complete details, visit the Parks & Facilities listing on our website.

Take a Ride on the Yorktown Trolley Returning March 26
With the arrival of spring, the Yorktown Trolley takes to the roads of the historic area transporting visitors to museums, shops, restaurants and the beach!  Beginning next weekend, the Trolley operates each day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and is a great way to get around town. Visitors to Yorktown know that parking can sometimes be a challenge along the waterfront. With the Trolley, your parking worries are alleviated!  For complete details and seasonal hours of operation, visit this week’s press release.  And, as you wait for the Trolley’s return, be sure to download the SPOT ETA app that tracks the route and lets you know when it arrives at your stop!  

Parks and Recreation Offers Camp for those with Special Needs, Adult Fitness Classes
Special Recreation Camp is a summer program designed to provide a variety of fun opportunities for youth with disabilities and/or special needs. This four-week camp runs from June 28 to July 23 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday. Campers can enjoy arts and crafts, special visitors, games, movies, and more!  Registration begins March 29.  Parks and Recreation also offers Adult Fitness Classes for all levels including Hi/Lo Combo, Zumba, ABS & More, Strength Training, Yoga, Interval Training, and more. Registration ends April 7. For complete details on camps and classes, visit the Parks and Recreation website. 
 
A Few More Notes for the Week…..The Yorktown Beach is getting a facelift to be ready for warmer days. Next week, the County is replenishing the sand, filling in drop-off areas along the sidewalk and building up some spots that have experienced erosion. This is a regular project performed prior to summer seasons.  Sprucing up your yard for the spring and summer? The VPPSA Compost Facility is being renovated.  During this time, some of the regularly stocked compost and mulch products may be limited or not available.  Call the facility for more information – (757) 898-5012.

Citizen News Weekly is compiled and published by York County Public Affairs each Friday to share news and events with our citizens and neighbors. This weekly newsletter is placed on our website and delivered directly to your inbox. Questions? Contact Gail Whittaker, Public Information Officer: (757) 890-3310 or whittgl@yorkcounty.gov.