Albemarle County PC to get update on second phase of Broadway Blueprint

One of the strangest land use quirks in the community is the 46 acres of Albemarle County on the western side of the Rivanna River within Charlottesville. In recent years, Albemarle’s economic development department has identified the land along Broadway Street as a key location for future business growth. A first phase of the Broadway Blueprint was conducted in 2019 but full implementation was affected by the pandemic.

A survey was opened for a second phase last year, as I reported at the time. 

“Phase 2 is focused on developing actionable recommendations for physical improvements to the corridor and business development and retention efforts but will also provide recommendations related to land use,” reads the staff report for the Albemarle County Planning Commission meeting that begins at 6 p.m. tonight in Lane Auditorium. (meeting info)

The county has hired two firms to work on the study. They are 3TP Ventures and Line and Grade. The project lead for 3TP Ventures is Rachel Falkenstein, a former county planner. 

One of the items in the packet is a prescriptive look at potential transportation improvements. How long has it been since the Charlottesville and Albemarle Planning Commissions have met? What sort of coordination exists between the two planning departments? 

There will also be a public hearing for a special use permit for outdoor display for the new Home Depot proposed at Fashion Square Mall. (staff report)

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