Many public hearings for land use changes in Albemarle County are well-attended by nearby residents concerned about the impact of new development on their properties. Already in 2026, decisions on two rezoning requests have been deferred after the planning commission was persuaded by arguments from neighbors.
On February 24, there was no opposition to a request from Piedmont Realty Holdings to rezone 3.2 acres to the Neighborhood Model District on 600 Rio Rd. W in order to build up to 153 new residential units. If constructed at the full level, the residential density would be 47.8 units per acre.
“This has been identified as a place where we want urban-style residential construction, and it is a key growth area, and densification of that part of our community is appropriately located,” said Planning Commissioner Nathan Moore…