Whitetop is a small community located in SW Virginia and is nestled between two mountains, Whitetop Mountain to the north and Pond Mountain to the south. At 5,520 feet, Whitetop is second highest (independent) elevation to only Mt. Rogers in Virginia, and the highest elevation accessible to vehicles.
Our community has a rich history of social events and opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the region. From the music festivals of the 30s (including a special appearance by Eleanor Roosevelt), to the Virginia Creeper railroad station, to the annual Maple Festival, and our huge Christmas tree industry, Whitetop has been a year-round vacation destination for more than 100 years. The area offers many opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the area, including hiking, camping, fishing, Grayson Highlands, the Virginia Creeper Trail (VCT) rails-to-trails biking experience, and the recently opened gravel traverse.
Last year, the county entered into a partnership with US Cellular to install a new microwave radio system to conduct all 911communications and new cellular and broadband wireless internet services in the central and western part of the county. Together they are building new towers in the western part of the county to deploy 5G cellular and internet services. The total cost of the project is $4.6 million dollars and is expected to be completed by July 2026.
A cell tower has been proposed for Old Park Road in the middle of the historic Whitetop/Park neighborhood.
Thanks to the strong feedback from community members, the July 15 Planning Commission meeting has been postponed. The county is now taking additional time to explore alternative locations. As part of this effort, our community has formally requested that the tower be relocated to the Mt. Rogers Fire and Rescue property. This alternative site would not only preserve the character of the Old Park Road area but would also provide much-needed rental income to support local emergency services.
Thank you to everyone who has spoken up and stayed involved—your engagement is helping shape the future of our community.
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