Family Cemetery in Direct Path of Route 29 Western Bypass - NBC29 WVIR Charlottesville, VA News, Sports and Weather

Preparations for the Western Bypass have uncovered an African-American family cemetery. The cemetery is in the direct path of the bypass.

Now VDOT must make a decision about what to do next. They have issued the following statement:

"VDOT is sensitive to the needs and concerns of the family members involved and we have procedures in place and right of way specialists to evaluate the significance of such cemeteries."

VDOT says it is not uncommon for small cemeteries or burial plots to be found during highway construction projects. It is working with the Virginia Department of Historic Resources to determine the appropriate action.