ALBEMARLE COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
NEIGHBORHOOD MODEL
Albemarle County's Neighborhood Model is a guide for developing the County's designated Development Areas. It was appended to the Comprehensive Plan on May 16, 2001. Subsequent changes to the Land Use Portion of the Comprehensive Plan to reinforce the Neighborhood Model were adopted on July 10, 2002.
What is in the Neighborhood Model ?
The Neighborhood Model describes the more "urban" form of development desired for the Development Areas. It establishes the 12 Principles for Development that should be adhered to in new development proposals. These principles are:
Pedestrian Orientation
Neighborhood Friendly Streets and Paths
Transportation Networks and Interconnected Streets
Parks and Open Space
Mixed Uses
Neighborhood Centers
Buildings and Spaces of Human Scale
Relegated Parking
Affordability with Dignity
Redevelopment
Site Planning that respects terrain
Clear boundaries with the Rural Areas
The document illustrates the several different ways that each of these principles can be achieved in design of developments. It also describes how the master planning process should be used to set the context for new development.
What is the Neighborhood Model doing for the County?
The Neighborhood Model is providing direction for new land development in the County's designated Development Areas. It is the basis on which the master plan for the Community of Crozet was developed. And it is providing a "recipe book" of design solutions to some of the County's challenges for more urban development. It is also the basis on which ordinance revisions and community facilities planning are taking place.
What ordinance amendments have taken place so far to implement the Neighborhood Model?
Several ordinance amendments to implement the Neighborhood Model have been made or are in the public review process at this time. In January of 2002, alleys and shared driveways were made permissible by-right in subdivisions in the Development Areas. A new set of parking standards was adopted by the Board of Supervisors in February 2003. A new Neighborhood Model zoning district was adopted in March 2003. Other amendments to the Zoning & Subdivision Ordinance are under development. Click HERE to see the other Zoning Text Amendments that are being proposed for implementation of the Neighborhood Model.
How can I get a copy of the Neighborhood Model?
You may download it from the Neighborhood Model webpage. You may pick up a black and white version from the Department of Community Development for $8.00. Or you may send a check to the County for $8.50 for a copy to cover the printing and mailing. For more information, contact Elaine Echols at (434) 296-5832 ext. 3252.
Neighborhood Model Slide Show Presentation.
