Vineyard Square downtown project officially dead—new vision ahead

By Valerie Cury

After more than 15 years without progress on a deeply unpopular proposal for a six-story building with first floor commercial space and 40 apartments in the heart of Purcellville’s historic downtown, the project’s approvals have finally run their course. The developer’s Certificates of Design Approval, previously extended three times, have now officially expired.

The Purcellville Planning Department has confirmed that the site plan for the Vineyard Square project (TP-14-13) expired on July 1, 2025. The extended timeline had been granted under a temporary statewide provision related to the COVID-19 pandemic, which allowed certain development plans to remain valid longer than usual. However, that grace period has now ended, and in this case, no further extensions are allowed under local regulations.

If the developer intends to move forward with any new version of this project, they will be required to submit a completely new site plan that complies with all current zoning rules, design standards, and review procedures.

This marks a long-overdue reset and a new opportunity for more thoughtful, community-supported planning in downtown Purcellville.

Mayor Chris Bertaut said, “This is an exciting moment for Purcellville. With the expiration of a project proposal that was never the right fit for our historic downtown—we now have the opportunity to reimagine this important part of 21st Street.

“I look forward to working closely with the developer and the community to create a project that truly reflects the charm, scale, and values of our town. Ending the era of a proposal that never aligned with Purcellville’s Comprehensive Plan or zoning was a key goal for me, Vice Mayor Ben Nett, and Council Members Susan Khalil and Carol Luke. We’re eager to see these 2.5 acres become a vibrant hub for retail, commercial, and office space that enhances the character of our town.”