City council approves one set of condos but punts on Tobacco Row hi-rise vote

The Libby Hill view will not be blocked at least for now.

July 15, 2014; 9:42 AM • by Richard Hayes

The one constant in Richmond politics is that contentious issues either sneak through like greased lightning (aka Redskins Training Center) or get stuck in a La Brea Tar Pit.

The RTD is reporting that the city approved rezoning for two sets of apartments one in Jackson Ward and the Lorillard building mentioned below.

The council also approved a rezoning near Tobacco Row that will allow the historic Lorillard building, in the 2300 block of East Main Street, to be converted into 71 apartment units. The developer, Charles S. Macfarlane, had intended to use the building for creative office space, but a lack of demand prompted him to seek a rezoning for residential use.

The building is on the south side of Main Street, across the street from Farm Fresh and the 23rd & Main Taproom.

The Pear Street condo at the end of tobacco row was also up for vote but Councilwoman Cynthia I. Newbille requested a delay so that more information can be gathered. The delay will be until at least September because despite switching to a once a month meeting schedule the City Council has decided to take the month of August off.

From RTD.

“There are a variety of questions and concerns that have come even subsequent to the last meeting,” Newbille said.

Church Hill residents and preservationists have opposed the project, saying it would mar vistas from Libby Hill Park and stand out from its much-shorter surroundings.