SR 179: A Route Through Onancock and Onley
State Route 179 (SR 179) serves as a vital connector in the Eastern Shore region, linking the historic waterfront of Onancock with the town of Onley. This roadway traverses a landscape rich in local history and essential community services, providing a direct path through the heart of these coastal communities.
Route Overview and Path
The journey of SR 179 begins at the Onancock Wharf in the town of Onancock. This starting point is marked by the presence of the historic Hopkins and Brother Store. At the head of the peninsula—situated between the North and Central branches of Onancock Creek—the road curves back to the east, transitioning into SR 1023, known locally as King Street.
As it moves through the town, SR 179 is designated as Market Street. This section of the highway is a two-lane undivided road that passes the historic Cokesbury Church, a landmark of the area's heritage.
Connecting Onancock to Onley
Continuing eastward, the highway reaches the eastern edge of Onancock, where it meets the western terminus of SR 126, also known as Fairgrounds Road. As the route progresses further east, it passes to the north of the Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital, ensuring accessibility to regional healthcare.
The highway eventually reaches the town of Onley. On the outskirts of town, SR 179 intersects with US 13, the Lankford Highway. From this intersection, the route curves south, becoming Main Street, before reaching its southern terminus at US 13 Business, known as Coastal Boulevard, in the center of Onley.
Key Facts
- Starting Point: Onancock Wharf, Onancock.
- Ending Point: US 13 Business (Coastal Boulevard), Onley.
- Major Intersections: US 13 (Lankford Highway) and SR 126 (Fairgrounds Road).
- Local Names: Market Street (Onancock) and Main Street (Onley).
- Key Landmarks: Hopkins and Brother Store, Cokesbury Church, and Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital.
| Segment/Location | Local Name/Identifier | Key Landmark/Intersection |
|---|---|---|
| Onancock Start | Onancock Wharf | Hopkins and Brother Store |
| Onancock Town | Market Street | Cokesbury Church |
| Eastern Onancock | SR 179 | SR 126 (Fairgrounds Road) |
| Between Towns | SR 179 | Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital |
| Onley Entry | SR 179 | US 13 (Lankford Highway) |
| Onley Terminus | Main Street | US 13 Business (Coastal Boulevard) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does SR 179 begin?
SR 179 begins at the Onancock Wharf in the town of Onancock, near the historic Hopkins and Brother Store.
What are the local names for SR 179?
The highway is known as Market Street while passing through Onancock and as Main Street as it enters the center of Onley.
Which major highways intersect with SR 179?
SR 179 intersects with US 13 (Lankford Highway) and terminates at US 13 Business (Coastal Boulevard). It also meets SR 126 (Fairgrounds Road) at the eastern edge of Onancock.
What landmarks can be found along the route?
Notable landmarks include the Hopkins and Brother Store, Cokesbury Church, and Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital.
How is the road structured through Onancock?
Through the town of Onancock, SR 179 is a two-lane undivided road.