New Signs Announce Naming of Leonard Sandridge Road

Street sign pointing to Massie Road and Leonard Sandridge Road

A sign on the North Grounds at the intersection of Massie Road and Sandridge Road (formerly the North Grounds Connector).

Dec. 17, 2006 -- On Thursday, Dec. 14 and Friday, Dec. 15, employees of the Virginia Department of Transportation erected signs with the new name of the former North Grounds Connector – now known as Leonard Sandridge Road, named for the executive vice president and chief operating officer of the University.

The road, which opened in January 2006 – five months ahead of schedule – is the main entrance to the North Grounds of the University and the new John Paul Jones Arena.

The Board of Visitors announced the renaming of the half-mile road connecting Massie Road with the U.S. 250 Bypass on Sept. 30, during the kickoff of the University’s $3 billion campaign. At the kickoff dinner, Thomas F. Farrell II, rector of the Board, introduced a resolution honoring Sandridge for his long career of service and dedication to the University.

At the time of the announcement, Farrell said, “Anyone who has been involved in University activities knows that for the last 30 years one individual has made a significant difference in the lives of faculty, staff, students and alumni . . . This individual shies away from the spotlight at all costs,” said Farrell, who added, “Well, the board has had enough of that and we decided to call him to account in a very public way.”

The board resolution introduced by Farrell stated, in part:

"Whereas, Mr. Sandridge is known and respected throughout the University for his hard work, his fair mindedness and his devotion above all to the good of the institution . . .the Board joins the entire community in thanking him for all he has done, and continues to do, for the University of Virginia.”

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