“I never thought we’d say this…” Planning Commission Chair Marcia Joseph paused and a smile pursed her lips. “…but can we turn up the volume on Mr. Cox?” Laughs scattered throughout Lane Auditorium. The subject of Joseph’s jab was architect Frank Cox, who came to represent the New Era Properties investment group (rumored to include Coran Capshaw and Biscuit Run developer Hunter Craig). Last time he came before the commission for this project, he and attorney Steven Blaine were berated for its lack of detail. This time, Cox played along: “Do you mind if I bend over?”
Many on the southern side of Charlottesville have clamored for retail space of their own—this is what they might get, just north of I-64.
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The work session concerned a rezoning of an 87 acre land parcel for use as a shopping center, located just south of the Charlottesville city limits. The only structure currently on the parcel, which once contained the City dump, is the former Grand Piano warehouse building.
Cox walked the commission through a slide presentation of the project that includes approximately 474,341 square feet of commercial space, principally for a home improvement store, a grocery store and a “major retail store.” Cox emphasized the need for a connector road that would link Fifth and Avon streets. “Despite the landfill, the road is buildable,” he said.
Cox also pointed to planned trail systems—including a connection to the Rivanna Trail—as well as sidewalks that would offer already developed neighborhoods opportunities for pedestrian travel. “What is the concept you’d like to see with the Greenway Trail and Stream Valley Park?” he asked, before offering to work on the erosion that already exists along Moores Creek.
“I’ve heard from several people eager for retail space,” Commissioner Eric Strucko responded. “But I’ve also heard requests for active recreation space. Is it possible for [something] like a soccer field?” Cox assured him it was.
The commissioners—Bill Edgerton in particular—wanted to know what would happen to all the existing trees. “It’s not going to be possible to preserve the trees within the primary development zone,” Cox replied.
After taking in their comments, Cox thanked the commission. “I look forward to seeing you on January 23,” he said, referring to the next work session on the project.
