The world may not be back to normal, but the future is what we create through a series of decisions. This week does not feature as many government meetings, but there will be some key conversations on our water supply, Greene County’s desire to attract new business, and the future of our transit system.
Albemarle County & the City of Charlottesville
The staff in PEC's Charlottesville office works with citizens to solve the many land use and conservation challenges facing the Charlottesville and Albemarle area.
On the Ground – Summer 2020
Updates from around the PEC region, organized by county. Albemarle: Comprehensive Plan Updates. Clarke: StoryMap & Upcoming Webinars. Culpeper: Land Use Update, Brandy Station and Cedar Mountain State Park Study. Fauquier: Fauquier Farm & Land Conservation, Tree Giveaway, Rezonings and Plan Amendments. Greene: Growth & Development, Stormwater Runoff Assistance. Loudoun: Community Farm Update, Zoning Updates, Project Threatens Historic St. Louis. Madison: Potential Communications Tower, Conservation & Stewardship, Potential Rural Resort. Orange: Land Use Update, Green Streets. Rappahannock: Clean Water, More Trees.
Take Action: Support the Monticello Connector Path
The proposal to design and build a shared-use path along Route 20 from Charlottesville to the newly reopened Saunders Monticello Trail faces a crucial test at the Wednesday, June 17, Albemarle Board of Supervisors meeting.
Connectivity Update / New Pedestrian Bridge Installed at Woolen Mills
Albemarle County took a significant step forward last week. On Tuesday, June 30, Brian Roy’s team at Woolen Mills lowered into place a new pedestrian bridge spanning Moore’s Creek, closing a critical gap in the Rivanna Trail. It brings what had been a little-used trail section back into service, providing everyday access to nature for nearby residents and opening the door to several enticing additional connections, including a pedestrian crossing of the Rivanna River, which is currently being studied.
Week Ahead for June 1, 2020 (Alb/Cville/Greene)
Protests continue across the United States of America against police brutality and the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis last week. These extended to Charlottesville, where peaceful protesters marched through downtown on Saturday afternoon. On Sunday afternoon, Albemarle High School Black Student Union hosted their own event outside the Albemarle County Office Building.
Week Ahead For May 26, 2020 (Alb/Cville/Greene)
A short week, but sometimes these are deceptively busy. This is one of those weeks. As we approach the summer, there will be no slowdown in government activity, particularly as we carve out a new normality as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. Charlottesville joins Albemarle this week in holding virtual meetings. There are also meetings of regional bodies that in many ways are more accessible than before. This week there are no major land use decisions in our area.
Week Ahead for May 18, 2020 (Alb/Cville/Greene)
As the pandemic enters its third month, many institutions of local government have managed to get public meetings going again. It is crucial for the public to have access to information to what is happening and to have context by which our decisions are made. The goal of this newsletter continues to help you know what is happening and to let you know how you can get involved.
Week Ahead for May 4, 2020 (Alb/Cville/Greene)
Even though the quarantine continues, local government is continuing to come back to life with actual meetings where matters are discussed and votes are taken. On April 22, the General Assembly ratified a budget amendment Governor Northam suggested that opened up meetings to more than just emergency business. That’s why we are beginning to see more appointed bodies meeting electronically, beginning this week with the first meeting of the Albemarle Planning Commission in nearly two months.
Self-Guided Public Art Bike Tour
Charlottesville (and urban areas of Albemarle County) has a rich collection of murals and large-scale sculptures that incorporate community perspectives, showcase the talents of regional and international artists, while contributing to the cultural and visual vibrancy of the city.
Week Ahead for April 27, 2020 (Alb/Cville/Greene)
The end of the month is in sight! This week is quieter than we can expect in the near future, as more appointed bodies are expected to begin operating online over the month of May. Virginia localities are still easing forward with governance in a virtual age, and we have a watchful eye to make sure you know what is happening.