Lake Anna residents have spoken, and their message is clear: access to healthcare is a top priority. The results from the first-ever Wavemakers community survey reveal a growing demand for medical services closer to home, reinforcing the need for action. With emergency healthcare facilities located 45-60 minutes away, residents see the urgent need for a local solution.

The Wavemakers survey, led by Lake Media Group and Co-Creation Labs in collaboration with members of the Lake Anna Civic Association (LACA), was designed to assess the needs of Lake Anna’s tri-county region—Louisa, Spotsylvania, and Orange. With more than 400 residents participating, the survey highlighted the key issues affecting the community and provided valuable insights into what improvements locals want to see.

The Million Dollar Question

We asked, “if you had a 1 million dollar budget for community improvements, how would you spend it?” Here’s what you said:

Protecting Our Natural Treasure: Let’s talk about the community’s top priority: that’s the lake itself. A whopping 31% of residents would direct funds toward environmental protection and lake health. And who can blame them? With concerns about Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) making headlines, residents are ready to tackle water quality head-on. They’re thinking about erosion control, water monitoring, and keeping our shorelines beautiful for years to come.

Healthcare: It’s Time for Change: Here’s a stark reality that Lake Anna residents face: when medical emergencies strike, they’re looking at a 45-60 minute drive to the nearest hospital. That’s why 23% of residents want to put their hypothetical million toward healthcare facilities. An urgent care center tops many wish lists, and honestly, who wouldn’t want healthcare closer to home?

Building Community Connections: What about having more places to gather, play, and connect? That’s exactly what 19% of residents are thinking about. They’re dreaming of new parks, walking trails where neighbors can chat while getting their steps in, and community centers where families can come together. It’s about creating spaces that make our lake life even better.

Making Every Dollar Count: Now, let’s be real – a million dollars doesn’t go as far as it used to. Many residents pointed out that these big dreams might need additional funding sources. But here’s what’s impressive: instead of spreading the money thin, they’re focusing on meaningful, lasting improvements.

Looking Ahead: What stands out in all these responses is how thoughtfully Lake Anna residents approach their community’s future. They’re not just thinking about quick fixes or flashy additions. They’re prioritizing the fundamentals: a healthy lake, accessible healthcare, and strong community bonds. It’s about keeping Lake Anna special while making it even better for everyone who calls it home.
That’s what you call smart spending, Lake Anna style. And honestly, who wouldn’t want to invest in a future like that?

Stay tuned for our community meeting in which we unveil all of the findings – your answers – from the Wavemaker Survey, plus opportunities to step up and help bring the change.