The Albemarle County Planning Commission meeting on December 5 was a testament to the power of the individual—or at least a persuasive argument for citizen vigilance.
On the docket for a work session were two matters concerning additions to the Hollymead Town Center, which includes Target off Route 29 in northern Albemarle. The commission was first asked to address the nature of the buildings that will line “Meeting Street,” conceived as the main street for the new “village.” Project Director J.P. Williamson proposed four-storey condominiums along Meeting Street, but the commission thought the street should resemble famous mixed-use areas like Georgetown in Washington, D.C.
“I like the idea of main street as the center of commerce with residential units within walking distance,” said Commissioner Eric Strucko. The Hollymead addition is scheduled to include 1,014 new residential units and 450,000 square feet of retail, office and hotel space.
The focus then shifted to a proposal to alter the plan for an area located behind Meeting Street on what will be known as Lockwood Drive, originally zoned for 14 townhouses with some surface parking. The owner of the parcel instead wanted a three-level parking deck with 202 parking spaces. Katurah Roell, representing the Post Office Land Trust, even raised the possibility of more than three levels.
Staff recommended approval, and the commission appeared in favor when the matter was put before the public. Ellen Newberry explained that she owns one of the prospective townhomes that will line Lockwood, opposite the proposed parking deck.
“Now instead of residential across from us there will be a massive parking garage,” she said, incredulously. “You’re talking about blocking our mountain view or our view of the sky. It will be like living across from a factory.”
Newberry also wanted to know the effects of increased traffic and closed with the argument: “It’s kind of misleading when you buy property and you’re told something that you rely on [that is altered]. …It’s just not right.”
The commission was obviously moved. “Is the proposed use appropriate for the site?” asked Chair Marcia Joseph and Strucko was immediate with his response: “In light of Mrs. Newberry, no.” Though Roell tried to persuade the commission, his request was ultimately denied. With the last “no” ringing in his ears, Roell gave a perfunctory “Let’s go,” and he and his cohorts stormed out.