FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: Does Windy Gap Mountain Village have a homeowners’ association?
A: Yes. As a resident of Windy Gap Mountain Village, you are automatically a member of the Windy Gap Property Owners Association (WGPOA). The Association is managed by a volunteer, three-member Board of Directors, all of whom are property owners. Board officers include a Secretary and Treasurer.

Q: What are the association dues?
A: As of 2020–2021, annual dues are $185 per lot with a home, due each year on September 1.

Q: Are there any amenities available to homeowners?
A: Yes! WGPOA provides several amenities for residents to enjoy:

  • Picnic Pavilion: Located at the top of Windridge Parkway, this scenic pavilion is available free of charge for residents. It includes picnic tables and a large built-in grill, though there is no water or electricity.
  • Tennis Courts & More: Adjacent to the pavilion are two tennis courts, along with a basketball goal and shuffleboard markings.
  • RV Storage Lot: A secure, lighted lot off Route 116 (just north of the entrance) is available for storing registered and operable boats, trailers, and recreational vehicles.
  • Hiking Trails: Three cleared and marked trails wind through the surrounding wooded areas, maintained by community volunteers.

Q: What services are provided to residents?
A: Here are a few key services and resources:

  • Trash Pick-up: WGMV is not served by county trash collection. Residents may use a nearby public dumpster site (2 miles south off Route 116) or contract with a private trash service.
  • Internet & TV: Shentel recently ran fiber internet to our neighborhood allowing for high speed internet. DSL may also be available to established homes through Verizon, though it’s not typically offered to new installations. Alternatives used by residents include mobile hotspots, HughesNet, and Seiontec. Cable TV is now available via Shentel, but many use satellite providers or roof antennas for local stations.
  • Recycling: Recycling drop-off locations are available at Burnt Chimney (Routes 116 & 122) and other county sites.

Q: Is WGMV on a public water system?
A: No. Each home has its own septic system, but water is supplied by Aqua Virginia via a community well system and storage tank located at Windridge Parkway & Turtleback Path.

Q: Does the community maintain its roads?
A: No—and that’s a good thing! Our roads were built to Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) standards and are fully maintained by VDOT, including snow removal.

Q: Can I become involved in the community?
A: Absolutely! Windy Gap thrives because of resident involvement. In addition to running for the Board, you can volunteer with one of our committees: Trails, Firewise, Environmental Protection.. It’s a great way to contribute and get to know your neighbors.

Q: Are there wild animals in WGMV?
A: Yes. Living in a mountain village means sharing the space with nature. You’ll likely see deer (who love our gardens!), and on rare occasions, black bears. Follow Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources guidelines to safely coexist. The area is also home to snakes—including two venomous types: rattlesnakes and copperheads—though sightings are infrequent. Black snakes are common, harmless, and even helpful.

Q: Is Windy Gap Mountain Village a social community?
A: Yes! Social activities are an important part of life here. The Social Committee organizes events like a catered picnic, community yard sale, holiday parties, trail walks, and trick-or-treating. Residents are encouraged to start groups based on shared interests such as book clubs, tennis, or cooking.

Q: What is the history of Windy Gap Mountain Village?
A: WGMV was developed in the mid-1970s by Billy Branch, who envisioned a mountain community with minimal environmental impact. Over the years, roads were brought to VDOT standards, underground utilities were installed, and amenities like the tennis courts, pavilion, and trails were added—many through volunteer efforts. In 1996, neighboring Belden Woods Estates was created by developer Jim Petrine, and the two communities often collaborate on events. WGPOA later purchased 10 additional acres along Route 116 to preserve privacy and open space.