As the Jefferson Scholars Foundation continues to prepare for its future, they’ll be able to consider the role a current public street may play in its built environment.
“JSF has been updating its long-range strategic plan, including evaluating what facilities it will need to support its current and future programs,” reads their application to buy a cul-de-sac off of Maury Avenue.
The Jefferson Scholars Foundation owns two parcels that are the only properties served by Clarke Court.
“As part of this process, JSF has determined that acquiring Clarke Court and consolidating it with the Parcels (thereby vacating the public rights-of-way) would have several benefits,” the application continues.
On November 3, Council held a public hearing on the request and voted 3 to 2 to move forward with negotiations.
“The focus of the negotiations for vacating the right of way was first of all, the securing of easements that are necessary for utilities passing through the area, being able to access those in the future if needed, as well as appropriate compensation for the loss of city street and five parking spaces that go along with the use of it as a public right of way,” said City Attorney John Maddux.
The city assessor calculated a valuation of $618,000 for the property and bumped up the city’s requested price to $750,000 to reflect the loss of five public parking spaces.
Councilor Michael Payne joined Councilor Natalie Oschrin in voting against the idea in November. He said there was nothing improper with the request but he thought it was odd that a private entity associated with the University of Virginia would be buying up public right of way.
“I will just remark on the oddness of that,” Payne said. “Again, just not saying anything not allowed or improper is happening. But it is very unique in terms of what I’ve seen on Council.”
Payne also the Jefferson Scholars Foundation bought land across the street in 2022 soon after Southern Development had obtained a rezoning for a 64-unit apartment complex.
In their application, the Jefferson Scholars Foundation said having control of the land will allow more flexibility in building future buildings and would allow for greater security and safety.
They pointed out Charlottesville would benefit as well.
“The city’s real estate tax revenue would increase annually as well, because the land currently occupied by the Clarke Court right-of-way, and any improvements constructed on that land, would become subject to local real estate taxes and revenue,” the application continues.
Before you go: Paid subscribers cover the cost of conducting research for this article which was originally published in the December 23, 2025 edition of Charlottesville Community Engagement. You can either subscribe through Substack, make a monthly contribution through Patreon, or consider becoming a sponsor. The goal of Town Crier Productions is to increase awareness about what is happening at the local, regional, state, and federal government levels. Please share the work with others if you want people to know things.
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