07SN0333
August 21, 2007 CPC
September 18, 2007 CPC
September 26,2007 BS
STAFF'S
REQUEST ANALYSIS
AND
RECOMMENDATION
07SN0333
Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors
Midlothian Magisterial District
Davis Elementary; Providence Middle; and James River High Schools Attendance Zones
Southwest quadrant of Midlothian Turnpike and Chippenham Parkway
REQUEST: Rezoning from Residential (R-7), Neighborhood Business (C-2), Community
Business (C-3), Regional Business (C-4) and General Business (C-5) to Regional
Business (C-4) with Conditional Use to permit multifamily and townhouse uses
plus Conditional Use Planned Development to permit exceptions to Ordinance
requirements.
PROPOSED LAND USE:
A mix of commercial, office and residential uses, including multi-family,
townhomes and detached single family dwellings, is planned. Specifically, a
maximum of 750 residential dwelling units (Textual Statement III.A.3) and a
minimum of 200,000 square feet of commercial and office uses may be
developed. (Textual Statement III.A.4)
PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
ON SEPTEMBER 18, 2007, THE COMMISSION DEFERRED CONSIDERATION OF THIS
REQUEST TO OCTOBER 16, 1007. THEREFORE, IT WOULD BE APPROPRIATE FOR
THE BOARD TO DEFER THIS REQUEST TO OCTOBER 24,2007.
ST AFF RECOMMENDATION
Should the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors determine that this proposal supports
the revitalization efforts along the eastern Midlothian Corridor, approval of this request would be
appropriate.
Providing a FIRST CHOICE community through excellence in public service
(NOTE: CONDITIONS MAY BE IMPOSED OR THE PROPERTY OWNER(S) MAY
PROFFER CONDITIONS. THE CONDITIONS NOTED WITH "STAFF/CPC" WERE
AGREED UPON BY BOTH STAFF AND THE COMMISSION. CONDITIONS WITH ONLY
A "STAFF" ARE RECOMMENDED SOLELY BY STAFF. CONDITIONS WITH ONLY A
"CPC" ARE ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS RECOMMENDED BY THE PLANNING
COMMISSION.)
CONDITION
(STAFF)
The Textual Statement dated August 6,2007, shall be considered the Master Plan.
(P)
GENERAL INFORMATION
Location:
Southwest quadrant of Midlothian Turnpike and Chippenham Parkway, also north line of
Cloverleaf Drive and the northern terminus of Starview Lane. Tax IDs 764-705-3864,
6668 and 8227; 764-706-3159-00001 and 00002 and 8861-00001 and 00002; 764-707-
6112-00001 and 00002; 765-704-2693; 765-705-4651, 5781, 7651 and 7962; 765-706-
1010-00001 and 00002,4170,6964,8068 and 8842; and 765-707-6600.
Existing Zoning:
R-7, C-2, C-3, C-4 and C-5
Size:
83.0 acres
Existing Land Use:
Commercial or vacant
Adiacent Zoning and Land Use:
North - C-3; Commercial or vacant
South - C-4, 0-2 and R-7; Commercial, office, residential or vacant
East - C-5 and R-7; Residential, vacant, Chippenham Parkway (Route 150) and the
City of Richmond
West - C-5, A and R-7; Commercial, residential or vacant
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UTILITIES
Public Water System:
The public water system is available to serve this site. There is an existing twelve (12) inch
water line extending from north to south along the western side of the request site from an
existing twelve (12) inch water line on the north side of Midlothian Turnpike, and
connecting to a twelve (12) inch water line in Cloverleaf Drive. Use of the public water
system is proposed. (Textual Statement III.A.7)
Public Wastewater System:
The public wastewater system is available to serve this site. There is an existing twelve (12)
inch wastewater trunk line extending from the north side of Midlothian Turnpike and
continuing along the western side of the request site. Use of the public wastewater system is
proposed. (Textual Statement III.A.7)
ENVIRONMENT AL
Drainage and Erosion:
The subject property drains in two (2) directions. The maJonty of the currently
developed property and the undeveloped property drains to the south under Cloverleaf
Drive and Starview Lane to the ponds at Cloverleaf Lake Apartments and then under
Chippenham Parkway. A small portion of the developed property drains to the east,
directly under Chippenham Parkway.
There are currently no on-site drainage or erosion problems and none are anticipated after
development. There are no known off-site erosion problems; however, Cloverleaf Lake
Apartments have, since the mid 1970s, experienced flooding of several of the units within
at least one of the buildings. With this re-development, an opportunity exists to re-direct
some of the runoff from existing impervious areas away from Cloverleaf Lake
Apartments, thereby, reducing the impacts of current flooding of the apartments (Textual
Statement III. A. 16). However, due to the larger upstream drainage area, this will not
eliminate the flooding of Cloverleaf Lake Apartments. The language of the condition,
however, states that such drainage will be redirected as much as "practicable" from
existing impervious areas, but does not identify who will make that determination. Staff
suggests that language be added to state that the Environmental Engineering Department
will make such determination. Small areas in the southern and eastern portions of the
request property are currently wooded and, as such, should not be timbered without
obtaining a land disturbance permit from the Department of Environmental Engineering
and the appropriate devices installed. (Textual Statement III. A. 17)
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Water Quality:
With re-development, the Chesapeake Bay Ordinance will reqUIre a reduction III
phosphorous runoff.
PUBLIC FACILITIES
The need for fire, school, library, park and transportation facilities is identified in the Public
Facilities Plan, the Thoroughfare Plan and the Capital Improvement Program, and further
detailed by specific departments in the applicable sections of this analysis.
Fire Service:
The Public Facilities Plan indicates that fire and emergency medical service (EMS) calls
are expected to increase forty-four (44) to seventy-eight (78) percent by 2022. Six (6)
new fire/rescue stations are recommended for construction by 2022 in the Plan. In
addition to the six (6) new stations, the Plan also recommends the expansion of five (5)
existing stations.
Based on 750 dwelling units, this request will generate approximately 257 calls for fire
and emergency medical service each year. The impact of this development on Fire and
EMS services is addressed in the "Fiscal Impact" section of this analysis.
The Buford Fire Station, Company 9, and Forest View Volunteer Rescue Squad currently
provide fire protection and emergency medical service. When the property is developed,
the number of hydrants, quantity of water needed for fire protection, and access
requirements will be evaluated during the plans review process.
Schools:
Approximately 398 (Elementary: 172, Middle: 98, High: 128) students will be generated
by this development. Currently, this site lies in the Davis Elementary School attendance
zone: capacity - 664, enrollment - 691; Providence Middle School zone: capacity -
1,089, enrollment - 926; and James River High School zone: capacity - 2,050, enrollment
- 2,065. The enrollment is based on September 29, 2006 and the capacity is as of 2006-
2007.
This request will have an impact at the elementary and high school levels. There are
currently two (2) trailers at Davis Elementary and three (3) at Providence Middle. This
case, combined with other residential developments and zoning cases in the area, will
continue to push these schools to capacity, necessitating some form of relief in the future.
The impact of this development on school facilities is addressed in the "Fiscal Impact"
section of this analysis.
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Libraries:
Consistent with the Board of Supervisors' policy, the impact of development on library
services is assessed county-wide. Based on projected population growth, the Public
Facilities Plan identifies a need for additional library space throughout the County.
Development of the request property could affect the existing Bon Air Library or the La
Prade Library. The impact of this development on library facilities is addressed in this
"Fiscal Impact" section of this analysis.
Parks and Recreation:
The Public Facilities Plan identifies the need for three (3) regional, seven (7) community
and twenty-nine (29) neighborhood parks by 2020. In addition, there is currently a
shortage of community and neighborhood park acreage in the county. The Public
Facilities Plan identifies a need for 354 acres of regional park space, 252 acres of
community park space and 199 acres of neighborhood park space by 2020. The Plan also
identifies the need for linear parks and resource based-special purpose parks (historical,
cultural and environmental) and makes suggestions for their locations. The Plan also
addresses the need for additional recreational facilities to include sports fields, trails,
playgrounds, court games, senior centers and picnicking area/shelters at existing parks to
complete build-out. Co-location with middle and elementary schools is desired. The
Plan also identifies the need for water access to James and Appomattox Rivers and their
major tributaries, Swift and Falling Creeks. The impact of this development on park
facilities is addressed in the "Fiscal Impact" section of this analysis.
Police Department:
A portion of this project will be occupied by high density residential uses. With the
support of the County Administration, the Police Department seeks to have developers of
new high density residential projects implement its recommendations for Crime
Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) which are planning and designing
principles that constitute proactive crime prevention tools. Through CPTED principles,
proper design and effective use of the environment can lead to a reduction in the fear and
incidence of crime. In addition, the Police Department recommends that high density
residential projects either enter into a contract for the permanent presence of a police
officer on the premises or annually submit a security plan to the Police Department for
review and approval. The Police Department's security concerns have been addressed.
(Textual Statement III. A. 15)
Transportation:
The property (83 acres) lies within Eastern Area Plan. One of the Plan goals is to "Ensure
Eastern Midlothian functions as an economic center for the region" by encouraging
investment in the area for new business development and redevelopment. Additionally, in
the "Purchase and Sale Agreement" for the property, the county has agreed that the
purchaser may reject conditions or proffers to the approved zoning that render the project
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financially infeasible, such as: 1) payment of any impact fees or fees of a similar nature;
and 2) payment for all or any portion of off-site improvements, or offsite road
reconfiguration or widening. Therefore, Staff has reviewed this rezoning request from the
same perspective as zoning requests within the Jefferson Davis Enterprise Zone (i.e., to
aid in redevelopment of the area, Staff has not evaluated the specific traffic impact of this
proposed development and the developers have not been requested to provided customary
infrastructure improvements or limit the density to achieve an acceptable Level of
Service). This request also does not address the traffic impact of this proposed residential
development in accordance with the Board of Supervisors' Cash Proffer Policy.
Most of the property is currently zoned for commercial uses with very few zoning
conditions that would limit/restrict development of the property. The applicant is
requesting rezoning to Regional Business (C-4) with a Conditional Use to permit
multifamily and townhouse uses. The Textual Statement includes a maximum density
condition that will limit development to 450,000 square feet of shopping center, 150,000
square feet of general office, 350 apartments, 300 condominiums and townhouses, and 60
single-family units, or equivalent traffic generation (Textual Statement Condition 5).
However, Condition 5 would allow the Planning Commission to approve a higher density
of development. Based on the maximum density outlined in this condition, development
could generate approximately 24,500 average daily trips (approximately 990 of these
trips will occur in the morning peak hour and approximately 2,340 trips will occur in the
evening peak hour).
Most of these vehicles will be initially distributed along Midlothian Turnpike (Route 60).
Based on the most recent data from the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT),
the section of Route 60 from Chippenham Parkway to Providence Road was carrying
59,295 vehicles per day (VPD) in 2006. The capacity of this six and eight lane divided
section of Route 60 is acceptable (Level of Service D) for the volume of traffic it carries.
As development continues in this area, traffic volumes on area roads will substantially
increase. No road improvement projects in this part of the county are included in the Six-
Year Improvement Plan.
The property would be redeveloped with the same vehicular access as the eXIstmg
development (Cloverleaf Mall). The Textual Statement includes a condition that will
limit direct vehicular access from the property to Route 60 to the three (3) existing access
locations and to Cloverleaf Drive to the one (1) existing access. (Textual Statement
Condition 9)
Staff routinely recommends that all of the main streets in residential developments be
accepted into the State Highway System. Having these streets accepted into the State
Highway System will insure their long-term maintenance. The Textual Statement does
include a condition that all of the streets that will accommodate general traffic circulation
will be designed and constructed to State (i.e., the Virginia Department of
Transportation) standards and taken into the State System. (Textual Statement Condition
8)
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The Virginia Department of Transportation's (VDOT) "Chapter 527" regulations, dealing
with development Traffic Impact Study (TIA) requirements, has recently been enacted.
Staff has been meeting with VDOT to attempt to understand the process and the impact
of the regulations. For redevelopment, the regulation states "trips currently generated by
existing development that will be removed may be deducted from the total site trips that
are generated by the proposed land use". VDOT has indicated that a "Chapter 527" TIA
may not be required, but a "non-Chapter 527" TIA may be required in order to determine
the impacts generated by the site. At this time, it is uncertain what impact VDOT's
regulations will have on the development process or upon zonings approved by the
county.
Financial Impact on Capital Facilities:
PER UNIT
Potential Number of New Dwelling Units 750* 1.00
Population Increase 2,040 2.72
Number of New Students
Elementary 174.45 0.23
Middle 97.50 0.13
High 126.75 0.17
TOTAL 399.00 0.53
Net Cost for Schools $4,011,000 $5,348
Net Cost for Parks 453,000 604
Net Cost for Libraries 261,750 349
Net Cost for Fire Stations 303,750 405
Average Net Cost for Roads 6,706,500 8,942
TOTAL NET COST $11,736,000 $15,648
*Based on the textual statement (Textual Statement III.A.3.). The actual number of dwelling
units and corresponding impact may vary.
As noted, this proposed development will have an impact on capital facilities. Staff has
calculated the fiscal impact of every new dwelling unit on schools, roads, parks, libraries, and
fire stations at $15,648 per unit. The developer has been advised that a maximum proffer of
$15,600 per unit would defray the cost of the capital facilities necessitated by this proposed
development. No proffered conditions have been offered that address the development's impact
on capital facilities.
This proposal represents a joint effort between the private and public sector for redevelopment of
a key gateway to the County. The real estate assessments on the subject property, and
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corresponding revenues, have declined significantly over time and the proposed project is
designed to reverse that trend with new investments. The County has initiated this zoning
request, recognizing the importance of revitalizing a distressed area.
The Economic Development Authority (ED A) of the County and the County have entered into
an agreement with a developer for the purchase of the mall property. Terms of the agreement
stipulate that the EDA and the County agree that the developer may reject conditions or proffers
that require the developer to pay any impact fees or fees of a similar nature that reasonably
render the project financially infeasible. The developer has advised county staff that payment of
cash proffers would render the proj ect financially infeasible. Staff believes that payment of cash
proffers on this project negatively impacts the financial feasibility of the project but cannot
conclude with absolute certainty that any level of cash proffer payments would render the
proj ect, financially infeasible.
Note that circumstances relevant to this case, as presented by the developer, have been reviewed
and it has been determined that it is appropriate, if desired, to accept the maximum cash proffer
in this case. The Planning Commission and the Board of Supervisors, through their consideration
of this request, may determine that there are unique circumstances relative to this request that
may justify acceptance of proffers as offered for this case. This project represents a significant
revitalization initiative in a key area of the county. Furthermore, the proposal includes substantial
upgrades to the existing conditions.
OFFICE OF REVITALIZATION
In 2004, the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors purchased the Cloverleaf Mall and
surrounding lands in order to redevelop this key site and revitalize the Eastern Midlothian
Corridor and surrounding residential areas. The County strategy is to spur additional investment
and improvement in the surrounding area and overturn recent blighting forces.
This County decision was based on advice from national and local real estate experts. Howard
Kohn, a national retail expert, was hired to conduct a market analysis for the site and recommend
a strategy for the local government. In addition, a group of the best development experts in the
Richmond region were brought together through the Richmond District of the Urban Land
Institute (ULI) to advise the County.
Both groups determined that the future of the site was no longer as a shopping mall and that the
County government must play a lead role in the redevelopment of the site. The private sector
could not do it alone. The ULI Report stated:
"Chesterfield County should be an active participant in the redevelopment of the study
area instead of acting in its traditional capacity as the approving agency. The County
should limit its risk to the public areas, supporting infrastructure, and demolition expense
and property ownership."
After working with a previous developer during 2005, Chesterfield County signed an agreement
with Crosland Inc, headquartered in Charlotte, NC, to redevelop the Cloverleaf Mall.
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Particularly attractive to county officials was Crosland's ability to handle all aspects of mixed-
and multi-use development within its company through its retail, land development, office,
apartments and contracting divisions and the quality of their development projects.
On January 24, 2007, the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors approved a purchase and
sale agreement with Crosland LLC subject to several sales contingencies including rezoning of
the property and public financial support.
The county's purchase and redevelopment of the Cloverleaf Mall site is part ofa broader strategy
to revitalize the Eastern Midlothian Turnpike Corridor and nearby neighborhoods. The county
strategy is to create an attractive, economically successful, mixed use, redevelopment project at
the Cloverleaf Mall site. The size and location of this proj ect is of such significance to encourage
business and residential investment and improvement in surrounding properties.
LAND USE
Comprehensive Plan:
Lies within the boundaries of the Eastern Midlothian Plan which suggests the property is
appropriate for regional mixed use to include a mixture of integrated office, shopping
center and light industrial parks. Further, the Plan states that where appropriate,
community scale mixed uses, such as shopping centers, other commercial uses or offices,
but not residential uses, may be appropriate.
The Plan recognizes the strategic regional location and importance of the Eastern
Midlothian Corridor to Chesterfield County and recommends that a balance of land uses
be provided to promote healthy neighborhoods and employment growth. While the Plan
encourages continued efforts for business growth and suggests regional retail and
employment opportunities for properties in proximity to Chippenham Parkway, the Plan
identifies challenges for the area noting that market trends may diminish
commercial/retail uses as the dominant land use. Specifically, the Plan suggests that a
shift in demand for goods and services would likely impact retail space allocations in the
area and that Cloverleaf Mall may be impacted by these changes or increased competition
from outside of the area.
The vision of the Plan is a sustainable community with stable, healthy businesses and
residential neighborhoods. Goals of the Plan include the creation of an inviting
atmosphere where people want to work, play, shop and live; strengthen neighborhoods
and communities by increasing home ownerships, promoting a balance of housing types
and providing services and facilities to support neighborhoods; and to ensure that the
Corridor functions as an economic center for the region.
Major concerns during the Plan's development included the existence of a high
percentage of non-owner occupied residential units in the geography. The Plan attempts
to discourage further residential development in areas designated for community and
regional mixed use and to reserve these areas for future economic development
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opportunities. The Plan does acknowledge retail demand changes in the Corridor, but
suggests that other economic development opportunities such as office and light
industrial uses are opportunities that should be available for future development. The
Plan even suggests that more intense non-residential uses may be appropriate in these
areas if their impacts on surrounding uses as well as special design criteria are addressed.
As a caveat, the Plan suggests that should it be determined under any circumstances that
residential uses may be appropriate, such uses should be of high quality and upscale
design and subsidiary to, and integrated within, office, commercial or light industrial
proj ects.
Area Development Trends:
Development along this portion of Midlothian Turnpike is characterized by commercial
zoning and land uses. A few properties to the south, east and west are occupied by
residential uses or are vacant. The area, to include the subject property, has experienced
a decline in retail demand and property values and as a result has experienced an overall
decline and high vacancy rates.
Hi story:
Cloverleaf Mall opened on a portion of the request property in 1972 with nearly 700,000
square feet of retail space and offering a wide variety of retail tenants. In February, 1986,
and May, 1999, the Board of Supervisors approved rezoning (Cases 86S021 and
91SN0141) of additional land for parking and a cinema adjacent to the mall. In June,
1998, a Substantial Accord approval was granted for a Chesterfield County Community
Policing office.
In 2004, the Board of Supervisors initiated the County's purchase of the Mall and
surrounding parcels as an active public redevelopment project. The County has obtained
a development partner, Crosland, to undertake the redevelopment of the subject property.
This effort is further described in the "Revitalization" section of this analysis.
Site Design:
The eighty-three (83) acre request property is proposed for Regional Business (C-4)
zoning with Conditional Use to permit multi-family and townhouse uses plus Conditional
Use Planned Development to permit exceptions to Ordinance requirements. A mixed use
project consisting of commercial, office and residential uses is planned. A variety of
residential uses are proposed including multi-family condominium and non-condominium
uses and attached and detached single family residential units on a variety of lot sizes.
The development will have design features which include pedestrian access, street trees,
open spaces, decorative lighting, buildings and parking areas located close to roadways
and recreational areas. While it appears the intent is to develop a new urbanism type
development, the Textual Statement fails to insure such a design. As submitted, the
project could also be developed as a traditional suburban type development which
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includes design elements such as sidewalks and street trees. It would even be possible for
the existing structure to remain and be renovated.
A Zoning Plan submitted with the application divides the property into two (2)
development tracts, one designated as a commercial mixed-use area and the second as a
residential mixed-use area. The boundaries and sizes of tracts may be modified provided
townhouse or single family residential uses are located in the southeast corner of the
property adjacent to existing single family residential uses (Textual Statement I).
Otherwise, there is no limitation on the manner in which the tract boundaries may be
adjusted. The mixing of uses within each Tract (for example, single family and
townhouse uses may be located adjacent to each other or single family uses may be
located adjacent to commercial uses) may be permitted upon consideration of
compatibility of uses and appropriate transitions and with the approval of a Conceptual
Plan. (Textual Statement III.A.2)
The Conceptual Plan may be approved by either the Planning Commission or Planning
Department at the election of the developer and the plan may be appealed in accordance
with the provisions for site plan appeal. Staff notes that appeals would be limited to the
applicant for the conceptual plan or any "aggrieved person" (an aggrieved person is
defined as an owner or leasee of adjacent property or property nearby who will be
adversely affected by the approval in an immediate and substantial manner not shared by
the public generally.) Given these circumstances, it may be more appropriate for the
conceptual plan to be approved by the Planning Commission, thereby allowing greater
public input into the conceptual plan review and approval process.
Unless specifically regulated by the Textual Statement, the development of all Tracts
must comply with the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance for Post Development
Districts for Regional Business (C-4) uses. The purpose of the Post Development District
standards is to provide flexible design criteria that ensures continuity of development and
promotes renovation and improvement of developed areas. Such standards address
access, parking, landscaping, architectural treatment, setbacks, signs and screening.
Uses Permitted Within Certain Tracts:
As previously noted, the development is separated in to two (2) development tracts or use
areas: Commercial Mixed Use Area (Area I) and Residential Mixed Use Area (Area II).
Uses permitted within these areas and minimum development standards for each use are
outlined in the Textual Statement and further described herein.
Commercial Mixed Use Area: (Area I)
Area I consists of approximately seventy (70) acres. As previously noted, the
tract boundaries may be adjusted resulting in an encroachment into the residential
mixed use area. This area could be developed for a mix of commercial and
residential uses (Textual Statement II. A). Specifically, Regional Business (C-4)
uses plus townhouse and multi-family dwellings, to include over-shop housing,
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would be permitted. As previously noted, development would be required to meet
Post Development District standards for Regional Business (C-4) uses, except as
provided in the Textual Statement for residential uses and certain design criteria
for the non-residential uses such as landscaping along Midlothian Turnpike.
(Textual Statement III.D and III.E)
Residential Mixed Use Area: (Area 2)
Area 2 designated as a Residential Mixed-Use Area is comprised of
approximately thirteen (13) acres. As previously noted, the tract boundary may
be modified without limitation with respect to size. Such adjustment may result
in the residential mixed use area encroaching into the area designated for
commercial mixed use.
Uses permitted by right or with restrictions in the Residential Townhouse (R-TH)
District and single family detached dwellings on lots with a minimum area of
5,000 square feet are proposed in this area (Textual Statement II.B and C).
Development of single family detached units within this area would conform to
the requirements of the Residential (R-9) Zoning District unless otherwise
provided for in the Textual Statement (Textual Statement III.B). Townhouse
units within this area would comply with the standards set forth in the Textual
Statement (Textual Statement III. C). As previously noted, the entire property
would be subject to Post Development requirements unless otherwise specified.
Therefore, except as specified in the Textual Statement, the townhouses will be
subject to Post Development requirements. Staff would suggest that the Textual
Statement be revised to clarify whether the townhouse developments will meet
Post Development District standards or the Residential Townhouse (R- TH)
District standards except as specified in the Textual Statement.
The Textual Statement establishes minimum dwelling sizes for the single family
detached and townhome units. The Textual Statement ties house sizes to the
recordation of a cumulative number of townhouse or single family units. (Textual
Statement III.B.8 and III.C.12). A minimum standard for dwelling sizes should
be established without restrictions and for recordation of fewer than thirty (30)
units. Standards for the townhouses and single family units address minimum
square footages, provided a cumulative number of thirty (30) lots or more are
recorded within the entire project for either townhouses or single family. If
twenty-nine (29) or less lots are recorded, there will be no minimum square
footage requirements. It should be noted that unless the entire residential area is
recorded (either townhouses or single family) at the same time, the cumulative
number may not initially be reached, but may through subsequent recordations.
This creates tracking and enforcement issues. As previously noted, the Plan states
that if residential development is to be allowed, it should be of high quality, up-
scale design. Staff notes that such criteria can be achieved through other means
than minimum square footage requirements; however, square footage is one mean
to address quality and up-scale design.
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Phasing of Uses and Mix of Uses:
The Textual Statement addresses the amount of residential and commercial uses
to be planned, as well as the timing of construction of these uses for the entire
development. (Textual Statement III.A.4)
A phasing requirement has been offered. As noted, the condition requires that a
minimum of 300,000 gross square feet of commercial or office use be planned for
the entire property. The criteria does not require construction of the 300,000
square feet, but does require that the conceptual plan provide for that square
footage. This requirement would be reduced to 200,000 square feet after eighteen
(18) months from the issuance of the first building permit for commercial or
office use. The potential exists for a small commercial or office square footage to
obtain a building permit, and after eighteen (18) months the square footage of
commercial would be reduced to 200,000 square feet.
It is important to note that a minimum of 160,000 gross square feet of commercial
or office space must have obtained a building permit before any building permits
can be issued for a residential use unless the residential use is located above the
first floor of a non-residential use. The condition only requires release of the
office or commercial building permit, but does not require the construction or
occupancy of the non-residential uses. Once the commercial or office building
permit is issued, all of the 750 dwelling units may be constructed. The condition
does not obligate the developer to construct office or commercial space.
Based upon countywide averages of 8,000 gross square feet of commercial space
per acre, 300,000 square feet would occupy approximately 37.5 acres of the
Commercial Mixed Use Area (Area I - 70 acres) allowing the remaining 32.5
acres to be occupied by other permitted uses such as multifamily and townhouse
uses. By comparison, the 160,000 gross square feet of commercial and office
space could occupy approximately twenty (20) acres resulting in approximately
fifty (50) acres being available for residential uses. Such adjustments would be
possible with the ability to adjust tract boundaries.
Commercial Uses:
The Textual Statement requires a minimum of 300,00 gross square feet of
commercial or office uses be planned for the development, but reduces
that requirement of 200,000 gross square feet under certain circumstances.
Residential Units:
A maximum of 750 residential units would be permitted. (Textual
Statement III.A.3). In addition, the Textual Statement limits non-
condominium multi-family residential units which are not age-restricted or
located within the upper story of a commercial or office building to a
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maximum of 350 units. (Textual Statement III.E.2) This requirement is
intended to address concerns of the Plan with respect to the amount of
non-owner occupied units in the area. It should be noted that zoning does
not allow restrictions which require owner-occupied units, nor limit the
ability to rent individual dwelling units. It is also important to note that
there would be no limitation on the number of non-condominium, age
restricted units or the number of such units that are located on the upper
floors of commercial or office uses.
With the ability to age restricted residential units as well as above shop
housing, the number of potential multi-family units could approach the
total 750 dwelling unit limitation.
If age restricted units are to be developed, a standard should be included
that requires any housing units designed for occupancy by seniors to be
grouped together and identified on plans to better track the long term
enforcement of the occupancy restrictions.
Site Parking Requirements:
All Uses: It is requested that on-street parking be allowed to count towards the required
number of parking spaces for all uses (Textual Statement III. A. 14). Given the intended
urban character of the development, Staff supports such exception. Staff would suggest
that the provision be modified to delete the credit for "nearby uses". Staff is unsure the
definition of "nearby uses" and would suggest that the requirement apply to the entire
proj ect.
Commercial and Office Uses: Except for the provision of counting on-street parking as
discussed above, parking for these uses will be calculated based on Zoning Ordinance
requirements.
Residential Uses: The Ordinance requires the provision of two (2) off-street parking
spaces for each dwelling unit. An exception is requested to permit parking within
garages to be credited towards this minimum requirement (Textual Statement III. A. 10).
While staff supports such exception since it reduces the amount of impervious area and
furthers the intended new urbanism theme. The developer and future owners should be
cautioned that it will not be possible in the future to convert garages into living space.
As noted above, the Ordinance requires the provision of two (2) off-street parking spaces
for each residential single family, multifamily and townhouse unit, except age restricted
multifamily dwellings which require a minimum of 1.2 parking spaces for each such unit.
Provision of 1.5 spaces for each multi-family unit regardless of age-restriction is
proposed. (Textual Statement III.D.3 and III.E.5). With no data to substantiate reductions
in these parking requirements for non-age restricted units, staff does not support these
exceptions.
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07SN 0333-SEP26- BOS- RPT
Other Residential Standards:
The requirements offered for the project (such as setbacks for front loaded garages, street
trees and sidewalks on both sides of roads where uses front the streets) where exceptions
to Ordinance development standards (i.e. minimum setbacks and lot areas) are requested
are consistent with those typically required by the Planning Commission and Board of
Supervisors on similar residential projects recently approved (Textual Statement III.A.ll
and III.B.9 and III.E). It is, however, important to note that the requirements for such
amenities will be based upon "industry standards". Typically, such requirements are per
the Zoning or Subdivision Ordinance or as may be determined by the Planning
Department at the time of plans review. Staff is unclear of the meaning of "industry
standard". In addition, the application does not address whether hardscaped driveways
and alleys will be provided which is a typical requirements in such projects.
For the townhouse units, front loaded garages may be two (2) feet closer to the street than
the front fa<;ade of a dwelling unit. This is not consistent with the Commission's policy
which requires that front loaded garages to be no closer to the street than the fa<;ade of the
dwelling unit.
Recreation Areas:
A minimum of 40,000 square feet of open space is proposed throughout the development
(Textual Statement III. A. 13). A minimum of 15,000 square feet is proposed within the
Commercial Mixed Use Area for open green space and outdoor public activities with
uses located around the open area and oriented to face the area in a central place to serve
as a focal point for the entire development. Within the residential area, one-half of an
acre (0.5) will be provided with part of such area having benches or other amenities to
accommodate and facilitate gatherings. The application does not address the timing of
the construction nor completion of such areas. Further, in the area designated for
Commercial Mixed Use (Area 1), while the Textual Statement addresses provision of
open space with uses surrounding that space, such uses could be residential versus
commercial. Staff believes that the intent was to create open space surrounded by non-
residential uses thereby creating synergy within the commercial component. However,
given the ability to adjust tract boundaries and the ability to have residential uses in this
area, such design is not guaranteed.
Building Height:
The maximum building height for the development would be twelve (12) stories.
(Textual Statement III.A.6)
Landscaping and Sidewalks Along Midlothian Turnpike:
Landscaping and sidewalks are proposed along Midlothian Turnpike in accordance with
the Zoning Ordinance requirements for Landscaping H (Textual Statement III. A. 12).
Staff suggests Landscaping J be provided along Midlothian Turnpike. Landscaping J
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07SN 0333-SEP26- BOS- RPT
would address one of the goals of the Plan to minimize the visibility of parking areas
from the corridor. Landscaping J requires a hedgerow, low shrubs and ground cover and
one (1) large deciduous tree every thirty-five (35) feet rather than just one (1) large
deciduous tree every fifty (50) feet which is the standard of Landscaping H. The
additional landscaping would assist in reducing the visual impact of paved areas and be a
visual enhancement for this area.
Architectural Conditions for Commercial. Office and Mixed Use Buildings:
Minimum standards for architectural treatments and permitted materials are required.
(Textual Statement III. A. 18)
Restrictive Covenants for Residential Uses:
Textual Statement III.F. requires restrictive covenants be recorded which at a minimum
establish architectural guidelines and an architectural review committee for the multi-
family and townhome portion of the development. It is important to note that the County
will only ensure the recordation of the covenants and will not be responsible for their
enforcement. Once recorded, the covenants can be changed. The County will have one
representative appointed by the Board of Supervisors and one member of the
Revitalization Office on the Review Board. The proposed covenant does not address the
total number of Review Board members and therefore, the ability of governmental
representatives to influence final decisions is limited. The Restrictive Covenants,
therefore, carry no guarantee of a quality, up-scale residential development, consistent
with the recommendations of the Plan.
CONCLUSIONS
Should the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors determine that the proposal supports
the revitalization efforts along the eastern Midlothian corridor, approval of this request would be
appropriate. The application provides the County's development partner with maximum
flexibility to respond to market demands which has the potential to result in new development
that could have a positive impact on the surrounding area. While there are limited guarantees
relative to the ultimate development of a mixed use project with a primary focus on non-
residential development and where the ultimate design has not been well defined, consideration
should be given to the importance of this revitalization effort.
CASE HISTORY
Planning Commission Meeting (8/21/07):
At the request of the applicant's representative, the Commission deferred this case to
their September 18, 2007, public hearing.
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07SN 0333-SEP26- BOS- RPT
Staff (8/22/07):
The applicant's representative was advised in writing that any new or revised information
should be received no later than August 27, 2007, for consideration at the Commission's
September 18,2007, public hearing.
The Applicant's Representative Development Partner, Midlothian and Clover Hill Districts
Planning Commissioners, Midlothian District Supervisor, Staff, and Area Citizens (9/6/07):
A meeting was held to discuss the request.
Staff (9/7/07):
No new or revised information has been received.
Staff (9/7/07):
If the Commission acts on this case on September 18, 2007, it will be considered by the
Board of Supervisors on September 26,2007.
Planning Commi ssi on Meeting (9/18/07):
On their own motion, the Commission deferred this request to October 24,2007.
The Board of Supervisors, on Wednesday, September 26,2007, beginning at 6:30 p.m., will take
under consideration this request.
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07SN 0333-SEP26- BOS- RPT
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Chil!)lenham Place Textual Statement
Revised August 6, 2007
All property subject to this rezoning ("the Property") shall be zoned Regional
Business (C-4) with a Conditional Use to permit townhouse and multi-family uses in
accordance with the requirements specified herein, and with Conditional Use Planned
Development to permit use and bulk exceptions as specified herein.
I. Specification of Areas within the Property
The Property is shown on the Zoning Plan prepared by Land Design dated July 5, 2007
("Zoning Plan"), which delineates the general location of the Commercial Mixed Use
Area and the Residential Mixed Use Area referred to in this Textual Statement. The
boundary between these two Areas may be adjusted, provided that only townhouse or
single-family uses shall be permitted in the southeast corner of the Property, within one
hundred (100) feet of Tax IDs 7657054933,7657056518, and 7657054309.
II. Permitted Uses
A. Within the Commercial Mixed Use Area, the following uses shall be
permitted, subject to the requirements stated in this Textual Statement:
1) Uses permitted in the Regional Business (C-4) District;
2) Multi-family;
3) Townhouses; and
4) Multi-family uses located on upper stories above uses permitted in
the C-4 District.
B. Within the Residential Mixed Use Area, the following uses shall be
permitted, subject to the requirements stated in this Textual Statement:
1) Townhouses and other uses permitted by right or with restrictions
in the R-TH Residential Townhouse District; and
2) Single-family detached dwellings.
III. Reauired Conditions
A. Conditions Applicable to Entire Property
1) Master Plan. The Zoning Plan and this Textual Statement shall be
considered the Master Plan.
2) Mixing of Uses A conceptual plan addressing land use
compatibility and transition within the property and with adjacent
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properties will be submitted for review and approval.
Consideration of land use compatibility and transition may include,
but not be limited to, the exact location of uses, site design, and
appropriate use transitions. The conceptual plan shall be reviewed
and approved by the Planning Commission or the Planning
Department, at the election of the developer, and such review shall
be subject to appeal in accordance with the provisions of the
zoning ordinance for site plan approval.
3) Residential Unit Maximum The total number of residential
dwelling units on the property shall not exceed 750 dwelling units.
4) Phasing. A minimum of 300,000 gross square feet of commercial
or office uses shall be planned for development within the Property
as submitted and approved on the required Conceptual Plan. Such
development may be phased, provided that, prior to issuance of a
building permit for any residential unit except one located on an
upper story of a building in which the ground floor will be a
commercial or office use, building permits shall have been issued
for a minimum of 160,000 gross square feet of commercial or
office uses within the Property.
After eighteen months from the issuance of the
first building permit for commercial or office
use, the developer's obligation to develop a
minimum of300,000 gross square feet of
commercial or office use shall be reduced to
200,000 square feet of commercial or office use.
.il Maximum Density. The maximum permissible density shall be
450,000 square feet of shopping center, 150,000 square feet of general office,
350 non-condominium multi-family units, 200 condominium units, 100
townhouses, and 60 single-family dwellings, or equivalent traffic generation as
determined by the Transportation Department. At the election of the developer,
higher densities may be approved by the Planning Commission if the other
requirements of zoning are met.
6) Building Height. The maximum building height shall be twelve
(12) stories.
7) Public Water and Wastewater. The public water and wastewater
systems shall be used.
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8) Public Streets. All roads that accommodate general traffic
circulation through the development, as determined by the
Transportation Department, shall be designed and constructed to
VDOT standards and taken into the State System. Such roads shall
be considered special access streets. Except as otherwise specified
herein, setbacks from such streets may be reduced or eliminated in
accordance with S 19-505(b) of the Zoning Ordinance
9) Vehicular Access. Direct vehicular access from the Property to
Midlothian Turnpike shall be limited to the three (3) existing
access locations, and direct vehicular access from the property to
Cloverleaf Drive shall be limited to the one (1) existing access
location.
Development of the Property shall include the potential for
vehicular access from the Property to the west, south, and east, as
shown conceptually on the Zoning Plan. The exact location and
number of such future accesses shall be approved by the
Transportation Department. Any modifications of these accesses
shall be approved by the Transportation Department.
10) Parking. If residential units have garages, one parking space
within garages shall be counted toward the minimum parking
requirements
11) Sidewalks, Street Trees and Decorative Lights. Sidewalks, street
trees and decorative lights with spacing appropriate for the
adjacent use according to accepted industry standards shall be
provided along both sides of those portions of internal public
streets that have uses fronting the street and where necessary to
provide pedestrian connections among the various uses within the
Property.
12) Landscaping and Sidewalks Along Midlothian Turnpike. Along
Midlothian Turnpike, sidewalks and landscaping in accordance
with the requirements for Landscaping H under the Zoning
Ordinance shall be provided, except that an alternative landscaping
and sidewalk plan may be used if requested by the Developer and
approved by the Planning Department provided such alternative
meets the spirit and intent of Landscape Standard H.
13) Recreation Areas. Area(s) conveniently accessible to and included
within the development totaling not less than 40,000 square feet
shall be provided for suitable recreational use by the various uses
within the Property. These areas shall include: (a) a minimum of
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15,000 square feet within the commercial and office portion of the
development, which shall be designed to provide open green space
and for outdoor public activity, with uses located around the
perimeter of such open area and oriented to face toward such area
in a visible central place to serve as a focal point for the entire
development; and (b) recreation area(s) with a minimum of 0.50
acres within the residentially developed portions of the Property.
Part of such residential recreation area shall have benches or other
amenities that accommodate and facilitate gatherings.
14) On Street Parking Designated on street parking is to be counted
towards the parking space requirement of nearby uses.
15) Residential Multi-Family and Townhouse Security. The owner or
its successor shall meet the Crime Prevention through
Environmental Design (CPTED) standards, whenever practicable,
in the design of a multi-family or townhouse project as approved
by the Chesterfield County Police Department.
If the project experiences Group A crime incidents
above the County average for a year or longer, then
the owner or successor shall submit a security plan
to the Chesterfield County Police Department for
review and approval.
16) Drainage The developer will re-direct as much stormwater runoff
as practicable from the existing impervious area that drains to the
south.
17) Timbering With the exception of timbering that has been approved
by the Virginia State Department of Forestry for the purpose of
removing dead or diseased trees, there shall be no timbering until a
land disturbance permit has been obtained from the Environmental
Engineering Department and the approved devices have been
installed.
18) Architectural Conditions for Commercial. Office, and Mixed Use
Buildings
Buildings shall be constructed of modern materials with design
elements consistent with the Colonial Revival Style of the late
nineteenth and early twentieth centuries
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Building materials are to consist of masonry
(brick, stone, or split faced block),
cementitious siding (hardi siding), EFIS,
precast stone, or similar materials
Architectural trim materials shall be constructed of
architecturally complimentary materials
Painted block may be used on facades in
service areas that are not visible from areas
generally accessible to the public.
B. Conditions for Single-Family Detached Units
Shall meet the requirements of the R-9 Zoning District except as
follows:
1) Lot area and width. Each lot shall have an area of not less than
5,000 square feet and a lot width of not less than 40 feet.
2) Percentage of lot coverage. No maximum
3) Front yard Minimum of 5 feet in depth. Minimum setbacks shall
be increased where necessary to obtain the required lot width at the
front building line.
4) Side yard Two side yards, each with a minimum of 5 feet in width.
5) Corner side yard Minimum of 10 feet.
6) Rear yard Minimum of 20 feet in depth.
7) Setbacks for Accessory Structures
Side: 5 feet minimum
Corner Side: 10 feet minimum
Rear: 2 feet minimum
8) A minimum of 20% of lots shall be designated for homes of 2200
gross square feet or larger if a cumulative total of more than 30 lots
are recorded within the entire project property for single family
detached units.
9) Front loading garages shall be located no closer to the street than
the front fa<;ade of the dwelling unit.
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C. Conditions for Townhouse Units
1) Lot area and width. Each lot shall have an area not less that 1800
square feet and a lot width of not less than 18 feet.
2) Percentage oflot coverage. No maximum. No accessory building
on any lot except for a private garage shall cover more than 225
square feet.
3) Front yard. Minimum of 5 feet in depth. Minimum setbacks shall
be increased where necessary to obtain the required lot width at
the front building line.
4) Side yard. A side yard of not less than 2.5 feet in width shall be
provided for each end residence in townhouse groups.
5) Corner side yard. Minimum of 10 feet.
6) Rear yard. Minimum of 10 feet in depth.
7) Driveways and parking areas. All roads and parking areas shall
have concrete curbs and gutters.
8) Group or row design. The total number of lots within each attached
group or row of townhouses shall be varied, but in no case exceed
fifteen (15), and shall be designed and sited as outlined herein.
9) Setbacks for Accessory Structures
(a) Front: greater than principal structure
(b) Side: 2 feet minimum
(c) Corner Side: 10 feet
(d) Rear: 2 feet
10) Common Areas Between Buildings
A minimum common area of ten feet in width shall
be provided for each exposed side, front, and rear of
all lots of a block, except the side, front, and rear of
any lot or lots fronting or abutting a public street
11) Front loading garages shall be located no more than 2 feet closer to
the street than the front fa<;ade of the dwelling unit.
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12) A minimum of 20% of the lots shall be designated for townhomes
of 1700 gross square feet or larger if a cumulative total of more
than 30 lots are recorded within the entire project property for
townhouse units.
D. Conditions for Residential Condominium Units
1) Condominium Requirements. All such units must comply with the
requirements of the Virginia Condominium Act.
2) Integration of Uses. Any residential condominium units shall be
integrated with commercial and office uses by locating the units
adjacent to a commercial or office use. Vertical integration of
commercial, office, and residential units shall be permitted.
3) Parking. The minimum number of off-street parking spaces shall
be 1.5 spaces per dwelling.
E. Conditions for Non - Condominium, Multi-Family Units
1) Integration of Uses. Any non-condominium, multi-family units
shall be integrated with commercial and office uses by locating the
multi-family use adjacent to a commercial or office use. Vertical
integration of commercial, office, and residential units shall be
permitted.
2) Number of Non-Condominium, Multi-family Units. The
maximum number of non-condominium, multi-family units located
on the Property shall be 350; provided that such total shall not
include those units that comply with the Virginia Condominium
Act, those located on the upper story of a building in which the
ground floor is a permitted C-4 use, or those permitted as "housing
for older persons" in which residents under the age of 19 are not
permitted.
3) Setbacks. Buildings shall be setback a minimum of five (5) feet
from rights of way.
4) Building Separation. Buildings shall be separated by a minimum
distance of fifteen (15) feet.
5) Parking. The minimum number of off-street parking spaces shall
be 1.5 spaces per dwelling.
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F. Restrictive Covenants
Prior to the approval of the site plan for the condominium and non-condominium
multi-family residential project or the recordation of the initial subdivision plat for the
townhouse project, restrictive covenants shall be recorded that provide for the following:
1) An architectural review committee (ARC), that, until such time as the multi-
family and townhouse projects are completed, shall include one member
appointed by the Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors and one member of
the Chesterfield County Revitalization Office. The remaining members of the
ARC shall consist of developer representatives and property owners.
2) The restrictive covenants shall be filed and copy sent to the Chesterfield County
Planning Department to include the Architectural Guidelines listed in Exhibit A.
The Architectural Guidelines shall not be changed except by a unanimous
decision of the ARC.
Exhibit A Architectural Guidelines for Multi-Family and
Townhouse Projects
These guidelines apply to condominium and non-condominium multi-family and
townhouse projects that are not vertically mixed in a building with commercial, office, or
other nonresidential uses.
Building Design Style: Buildings shall be constructed of modern materials with design
elements consistent with the Colonial Revival Style of the late nineteenth and early
twentieth centuries. Design is to be consistent with the following principles:
A. An orderly, symmetrical relationship between the windows, doors, and building
mass, and
B. Building design style shall be similar to the style illustrated on the attached
drawings.
Building Materials: Masonry (brick or stone or similar materials), cememtitious siding
(hardi siding), EFIS, and precast stone; trim or accent elements can be constructed of
materials architecturally complimentary to the primary building materials.
Building Arrangement: Buildings are to front on streets as much as practicable in an
urbanist style. Streets cape improvements (including street trees and pedestrian scale
decorative lights) shall be continued along buildings that front parking lots. Open space,
as provided for in the Required Zoning Conditions, shall be located in a visible central
place to serve as a focal point for the residential neighborhood,
8
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Archi tectural Features:
I. The side elevation of building units shall have architectural details
and exterior finish materials consistent with the front elevation,
II. Windows shall be constructed of wood, vinyl, or polymer. Window
constructed of wood may be clad in vinyl or PVC,
III. Clear glass shall be used in all windows and doors. Stained, frosted
and tinted glass is not permitted.
IV. Doors shall typically have six raised panels and may incorporate sidelights and
transoms,
V. Roof penetrations (vents, flues, attic ventilators, etc.) shall be painted to match the
color of the roof. Penetrations shall be placed on the rear of the primary ridge
when possible,
VI. Front porches/balconies and street porcheslbalconies shall be open. Screened or
enclosed porches are not permitted. Minimum porch/balcony depth shall be six
feet. Urban style metal balconies Guliettes) shall be permitted.
1431549v4
9
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