What is AC44?
The County of Albemarle explains -
“The updated Comp Plan is expected to be completed in 2024 and will establish a 20-year vision for Albemarle County. This name celebrates the shared future that we will be working to shape by the year 2044.” AC44
Why did you send me this email?
Opportunities for you to share your opinions and ask questions occur at Open Houses at various locations throughout the county. (See below)
We think there are some key points we, who live in the Village of Rivanna Development Area, need to ask, and expect to receive some serious answers.
How is the Comprehensive Plan going to address the lack of adequate infrastructure, particularly roads to handle the additional planned development? Is development going to be linked to traffic needs that will be adversely affected by the addition of new residences on overburdened roads?
Is the effect and disruption in long established neighborhoods going to be mentioned for consideration in the Comprehensive Plan when up-zoning is considered in the name of equity?
The Board of Supervisors has shown a lack of respect for the Comprehensive Plan and Master Plans in considering certain projects recently. The reason usually cited has been “Well, it is only a plan, not a statute.” Doesn’t this make residents skeptical that projects will be reviewed fairly?
What can I do?
If you are able, attend one of the meetings and ask the above questions. We would love to share the answers you receive with our 950 followers.
There are currently only a few of us providing information. We need all the help we can get to provide accurate, current information affecting Where We Live.
Below is an invitation from Albemarle County for you to attend.
Join Us at an Upcoming Open House!
The purpose of the Open Houses is to share background information and specific concepts about this phase of the Comprehensive Plan Update. We’ll ask for your input on ways we can implement the AC44 Framework for an Equitable and Resilient Community, focusing on centers of activity that foster a sense of community and developing recommendations to plan for future growth.
The project team will be on-site during each event to guide you through several topics associated with this phase of the project. Each Open House will include the same content. Topics will include:
· Activity Centers in the Development Areas
· Draft Criteria for Development Areas Expansion
· Rural Interstate Interchanges
· Rural Crossroads Communities
The Open Houses are designed for you to drop in, take a self-guided tour of the topic stations, ask questions, and share your feedback.
Open House Events:
· Wednesday, May 24 from 5:30 - 7:30 pm at Journey Middle School (Cafeteria) 210 Lambs Lane, Charlottesville, VA 22901
· Tuesday, May 30, from 5:30 - 7:30 pm at Stone-Robinson Elementary School (Library) 958 N Milton Road, Charlottesville VA 22911
· Tuesday, June 6, from 5:30 - 7:30 pm at Walton Middle School (Cafeteria) 4217 Red Hill Road, Charlottesville VA 22903
· Monday, June 12, from 5:30 - 7:30 pm at Murray Elementary School (Cafeteria) 3251 Morgantown Road, Charlottesville VA 22903
About Phase Two of AC44
In Phase Two, we will review and update the 2015 Comprehensive Plan Goals and Objectives and design "planning toolkits" for more detailed recommendations on coordinated transportation and land use planning. The goals and objectives developed in Phase Two will inform the strategies (action steps) that will be drafted in Phase Three.
About The Comprehensive Plan Update and a Recap of Phase One
The Comprehensive Plan (or 'Comp Plan'), is a guiding document for growth, development, and investment in the county. The Plan includes recommendations for how and where the county should grow and serves as a guide to support local businesses and industry, protect and enhance natural resources, provide transportation options for walking, biking, taking transit, and driving, and allow and encourage a variety of housing types.
The Comprehensive Plan is used to guide decisions on public infrastructure and funding, plans, and programs, and review of some development applications. We are updating the Plan because it is required by the state and it's a way to respond to the changing needs of our community.
During Phase One we learned that there are a wide variety of perspectives on how to accommodate a growing community. We listened at community events, reflected on questionnaires, and ultimately created the Framework for an Equitable and Resilient Community which will serve as a guide to Phase Two and Three work.
We hope you'll join us during Phase Two of the project! Please consider joining us at our events and sharing this information with friends and neighbors.
We have a podcast! The Let’s Talk Albemarle podcast seeks to foster community participation through the exploration of important topics in Albemarle County. Listen free on Apple Podcast, iHeart, Spotify, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, or our website.