On the recordJanuary 17, 2019
Today, I rise to speak about a pressing local safety concern in my home county of Nelson. Wintergreen Resort is facing major fire safety issues. Last week, I spoke with the local fire chief, who pointed out that having only one exit from the Wintergreen Resort creates the potential for a major public safety crisis. In the case of an emergency, such as a fire blocking the main exit, there would be no way to leave the resort. I have called the National Park Service and asked that they help me mitigate this situation by allowing a secondary exit that will allow people to go from the resort, through the national park, and to the Blue Ridge Parkway in the case of a fire or emergency. This simple step, 450 feet, would safeguard the community against a potential disaster. Government, when necessary, should be here to assist, not interfere. Guidelines that don't make sense need to be changed so that common sense prevails. ____________________





