A Hanover County 20-year growth plan, not very different from the current plan, was adopted by the Board of Supervisors on February 14, but more work remains to be done.

The Board voted 5-2 to adopt the 2017-2013 Comprehensive Plan update, but decided to refer the proposed “Active Living and Healthy Neighborhoods” section to the Board’s Community Development Committee.

“Active Living and Healthy Neighborhoods” was a new component of the Plan that developed from recommendations made by the Board’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Connectivity Engagement Committee.  It was meant to encourage amenities such as walking trails and bike paths where they are feasible, without being mandatory. The proposed new section was the subject of comments from citizens, both supportive and opposed, during the review process. 

The Community Development Committee, which consists of three Board members supported by staff, has the assignment of determining “the appropriate routes and paths needed to guide effective implementation.”  The next meeting of the Community Development Committee has not been scheduled.

The removal of the “Active Living and Healthy Neighborhoods” section from the Comprehensive Plan led Chickahominy District Supervisor, Angela Kelly-Wiecek and Ashland District Supervisor, Faye Prichard, to vote against the motion of Beaverdam District Supervisor, Aubrey M. Stanley, to approve the Comprehensive Plan update.

Board members were unanimous in agreeing to remove a proposed commercial designation in the Hylas area of Rockville after a number of residents expressed opposition.  The land is currently zoned agricultural and residents wanted to maintain that rural atmosphere.

In addition, a vote was unanimous to reduce housing densities in two zoning districts within the Suburban Services Area, which was beyond the recommendation by the Planning Commission.

The amended plan anticipates an average annual growth rate of 1.5% over the next 20 years.