Church Hill Association Urges Residents to Speak Up On Riverfront Plan

June 29, 2012; 11:50 AM • by Church Hill People's News

It’s not so much about the plan but rather what isn’t in the plan. The stretch from Dock Street between Chapel Island and Rocketts Landing is not part of the plan and could have a dramatic affect on Church Hill views and quality of life. Beyond the narrow view of what’s good for Church Hill the Riverfront Plan should take a look at all of the river in RVA not just the stretch that is convenient. Much more including how to make sure your voice is heard this Monday when the city meets to adopt the Riverfront Plan from the Church Hill Association email.

The Richmond City Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Monday, July 2, 2012, at 1:30 pm in the 5th floor conference room of City Hall, 900 East Broad Street. This meeting will encompass adoption of the Richmond Riverfront Plan and amendment to the Master Plan and Downtown Plan for the city to incorporate the recommendations contained within the Richmond Riverfront Plan.

The plan is described in this link: Riverfront Plan. Church Hill is most adversely affected by the plan in an area which the plan does not address; a vast stretch of real estate on Dock Street between Chapel Island and Rocketts Landing.

If you wish to express your views on the plan you may address the Planning Commission during a period of public comment. You may also submit written comments to James Hill, Principal Planner, via email to: James.Hill@richmondgov.com. Mr. Hill will coordinate with the Secretary to the Planning Commission to ensure the commission members receive your remarks.

Perhaps you, like many of us in Church Hill, value this viewshed and what it represents to Richmond, “the view that named Richmond.” I therefore encourage as many residents of the city as possible attend this meeting! Please forward this message and let everyone know how vital the view of the James is to the city.

Attendance at this hearing will be crucial to establish that we, the affected residents and business, are not opposed to responsible development. And that we encourage thoughtful consideration of this historic area. Establishing green spaces and public access to the James will embolden and inspire the redefining of this long underutilized area of Richmond.

We can do this if we all pitch in and lend the benefit of our collective experiences, knowledge and wisdom.

If you need more information please do not hesitate to reach out to Eugenia Anderson-Ellis via email to: eandersonellis@gmail.com, or by calling 804.643.3915

Jon Ondrak
President | CHA