HomeMy WebLinkAboutSP201900004 Staff Report 2022-04-12COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE
TRANSMITTAL TO THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
SUMMARY OF PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION
AGENDA TITLE:
SP201900004 Virginia Institute of Autism Adult
Service Center
SU BJ ECT/PROPOSAL/REQU EST:
The Virginia Institute of Autism (VIA) is requesting
to use an existing building on a 1.71ac lot for office
and private school uses, for the purpose of an
Adult Service Center program. The program would
be a year-round, day program serving
approximately 52 adult participants and 69 staff
members. No building expansion is proposed.
Some on -site parking may be converted to open
space.
SCHOOL DISTRICT:
Woodbrook (Elementary); Jouett (Middle School);
Albemarle (High School)
AGENDA DATE:
October 2, 2019
STAFF CONTACT(S):
Benish, Nedostup, Gleason
PRESENTER (S):
Mariah Gleason
BACKGROUND:
At its meeting on August 20, 2019, the Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of
SP201900004 with conditions as recommended in the presentation by staff.
The Planning Commission's staff report, action letter, and minutes are attached (Attachments A, C, and
D).
DISCUSSION:
During the presentation, staff spoke to the previous conceptual plan, last revised on July 15, 2019 (Att.
A2), as well as a revised conceptual plan, last revised on August 6, 2019 (Att. B). The revised conceptual
plan was submitted prior to the Planning Commission hearing but after the staff report was written. The
revised conceptual plan addresses the following concerns and associated changes that had been
recommended in the staff report.
Concerns:
"Simulated auto -turn analysis for the full-sized buses entering and exiting the site demonstrated
that buses executing right turn movements out of the site would temporarily occupy a portion of
the dedicated left turn lane of opposing traffic."
Recommended Changes:
"The applicant will work with VDOT to make sure VDOT concerns regarding the ingress and
egress of buses providing regular drop off and pick up services to the site are addressed."
To address concerns highlighted in the staff report, the applicant invited VDOT to a joint site visit to
discuss design alternatives prior to the Planning Commission hearing. At the site visit, the applicant and
VDOT agreed that no changes to the existing parking configuration would be needed, provided that an
additional condition be attached to the approval of the special use permit (see below).
4. Signage must be provided onsite, near the point of egress, notifying buses that only a left turn
out is permitted.
This additional condition was included in staff's presentation during the Planning Commission hearing.
The Planning Commission voted 7-0 to recommended approval of the Special Use Permit SP201900004
Page 1 of 2
with the conditions recommended in the presentation by staff.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends that the Board adopt the attached Resolution to approve Special Use Permit
SP201900004 with conditions (Att. E).
ATTACHMENTS:
Att. A — PC Staff Report
Att. Al —Vicinity Map
Att. A2 — Conceptual Plan (revised July 15, 2019)
Att. A3 —Applicant Justification
Att. B — Conceptual Plan (revised August 6, 2019)
Att. C — PC Action Letter (revised September 16, 2019)
Att. D — PC Meeting Minutes
Att. E — BOS Resolution
Page 2 of 2
ALBEMARLE COUNTY PLANNING
STAFF REPORT SUMMARY
Proposal: SP201900004 Virginia Institute of
Staff: Mariah Gleason, Senior Planner
Autism Adult Service Center
Planning Commission Public Hearing:
Board of Supervisors Hearing:
August 20, 2019
October 2, 2019
Owner: Senior Center, Incorporated
Applicant: Lori H. Schweller, Williams Mullen
Acreage: 1.71 acres
Special Use Permit for:
Request to allow private school uses in accordance
with Sections 18-22.2.2(6) and 18-18.2.2(5) of the
Zoning ordinance. Proposed office uses are allowed
By Right by Section 18-22.2.1 b 1 .
TMP: 061 W00200002A1
By -right use: C-1 Commercial — retail sales and
Location: 491 Hillsdale Dr, Charlottesville, VA
service; residential by special use permit (15 units/
22901
acre
Magisterial District: Rio
Conditions: Yes EC: No
Proposal: The Virginia Institute of Autism (VIA) is
Requested # of Dwelling Units: None
requesting to use an existing building on a 1.71ac
lot for office and private school uses, for the
purpose of an Adult Service Center program. The
program would be a year-round, day program
serving approximately 52 adult participants and 69
staff members. No building expansion is proposed.
Some on -site parking may be converted to open
space.
DA: X RA:
Comp. Plan Designation:
Institutional — civic uses, parks, recreational
facilities, and similar uses on County -owned
property.
Character of Property: The subject property is a
Use of Surrounding Properties: The property lies
comer lot at the intersection of Hillsdale Drive and
in an area where zoning transition from commercial
Greenbrier Drive. The parcel consists of one two-
to residential districts. Parcels to the north and east
story building which faces a large parking area.
of the property offer medical care services, while
The rear of the building faces the traffic
parcels south of the property offer office uses. To
intersection and contains an outdoor, manicured
the east of the property lie two planned unit
sitting garden and green space. The eastern edge
developments, Branchlands Retirement Village and
of the property abuts a stream with a primitive
Brookmill, that are buffered from the subject parcel
recreational trail.
by a heavily vegetated stream.
Factors Favorable:
Factors Unfavorable:
1. The proposal provides specialized support,
1. Simulated auto -turn analysis for the full -
education, and training opportunities for
sized buses entering and exiting the site
adults in the community with autism
demonstrates that buses executing right
spectrum disorder.
turn movements out of the site will
2. Community members in attendance at the
temporarily occupy a portion of the
community meeting generally agreed that
dedicated left turn lane of opposing traffic.
this was an excellent location for VIA.
RECOMMENDATION:
Special Use Permit: Staff recommends approval of SP201900004, Virginia Institute of Autism Adult
Service Center, with changes and conditions.
STAFF PERSON:
PLANNING COMMISSION:
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS:
Mariah Gleason, Senior Planner
August 20, 2019
October 2, 2019
SP201900004: Virginia Institute of Autism Adult Service Center
PETITION:
PROJECT: SP201900004 Virginia Institute of Autism Adult Service Center
MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT: Rio
TAX MAP/PARCEL(S): 061W0-02-00-002A1
LOCATION: 491 Hillsdale Dr, Charlottesville, VA 22901
PROPOSAL: The Virginia Institute of Autism is requesting to use an existing building on a 1.71 ac lot for
office and private school uses, for the purpose of an Adult Service Center program. The program would
be a year-round, day program serving approximately 52 adult participants and 69 staff members. No
building expansion is proposed. Some on -site parking may be converted to open space.
PETITION: Sections 18-22.2.2(6) and 18-18.2.2(5) allow private school uses by Special Use Permit.
Section 18-22.2.1(b)(1) allow office uses By Right.
ZONING: C-1 Commercial — retail sales and service; residential by special use permit (15 units/ acre)
OVERLAY DISTRICT(S): Steep Slopes (Managed and Preserved), Flood Hazard Overlay, Airport
Impact Area
PROFFERS:No
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN: Institutional — civic uses, parks, recreational facilities, and similar uses on
Countv-owned property within Neighborhood 2 of the Places29 Master Plan.
CHARACTER OF SURROUNDING AREA:
The subject property is located at the corner of Hillsdale Drive and Greenbrier Drive [Attachment 11.
Traveling along Greenbrier Drive away from Route 29, this area transitions from commercial to
residential zoning. The subject property lies at the edge of the commercially -zoned area and is buffered
from residential uses by a highly vegetated stream. Businesses surrounding the subject property to the
north and west of the site are RoseWood Village Assisted Living and The Laurels of Charlottesville (a
skilled nursing and rehabilitation center), which are both separated from the site by the traffic
intersection. Sharing a parcel boundary to the south is an office building and, to the east of the
property, are two planned unit developments, Branchlands Retirement Village and Brookmill.
PLANNING AND ZONING HISTORY:
SDP199000078 The Senior Center at Pepsi Place — Final site plan
Letter of Revision #1 (2005) — Approved the addition of a garden shed located adjacent to the
building on the southeast corner.
DETAILS OF THE PROPOSAL:
The applicant, Virginia Institute of Autism (VIA), is requesting a special use permit to allow private
school uses on an existing C-1 Commercial property. The property currently serves as The Center,
formerly known as The Senior Center, which has been operating at this location since 1991. However,
with The Center's upcoming move to a new location along Belvedere Avenue, VIA is proposing to use
the existing building for a new Adult Service Center Program. VIA is also hoping to use a portion of the
building as their company's headquarters. As office uses are allowed by -right in this zoning district, a
special use permit is not required to allow these uses.
The proposed Adult Service Center Program will act as a year-round, comprehensive day program, to
support adults with autism spectrum disorder. The program will provide vocational training to enhance
participants' ability to obtain gainful employment, train participants in the skills necessary to live more
independently, and include social, cultural, and recreational opportunities to help participants better
integrate into the larger Charlottesville community.
The program hopes to serve approximately 52 adult participants and be staffed by 69 personnel,
including 13 administrative staff members. Participants in this program will be ages 18 and older in the
first three to five years and, after five years, VIA envisions that this location will only serve participants
ages 22 and older. Another location is being planned to serve individuals between the ages of 18 and
22 in the future.
While the applicant will be occupying the existing building on -site, the conceptual plan shows some
changes to the area surrounding the building, including a new garden area, relocation of parking
islands and curb within the main parking area to accommodate buses, enclosing outdoor recreation
areas in the rear and sides of the building with a new fence, and a potential future conversion of the
parking lot area on the eastern side of the building to a new outdoor passive recreation area
[Attachment 2].
COMMUNITY MEETING:
The applicant conducted the required community meeting with the Places29 - Hydraulic Community
Advisory Committee on Monday, June 171h. Overall, there was general agreement from those in
attendance that this is an excellent location for VIA.
Additional questions and discussion included:
• The applicant answered questions about what autism is, emphasizing that it is a spectrum
disorder.
• Attendees discussed the on -going, supportive relationship between Albemarle County Schools
and VIA.
o VIA is able to provide a continuation of care after individuals with autism exit or age out
of the school system.
• Several attendees also voiced support for the organization's ability to draw families to the area
because of the quality of support systems and programs they provide.
• Attendees wondered if additional signage would be provided at the traffic intersection for the
safety of program participants.
o The applicant reiterated that the program would serve adult participants who would
generally be aware of traffic safety. Also, the applicant plans to install a fence around the
building's outdoor recreation spaces as a safety measure to separate recreation areas
from the traffic intersection.
ANALYSIS OF THE SPECIAL USE PERMIT REQUEST:
Section 33.39(B) states that the Commission, in making its recommendation, shall consider the
same factors found in Section 33.40 (B):
1. No substantial detriment. Whether the proposed special use will be a substantial detriment
to adjacent parcels.
In evaluating whether the proposed special use will be a detriment to adjacent properties, the type
and intensity of new use are considered, as well as comments and concerns of neighboring
properties.
The special use proposed on the property will functionally be very similar to the current use of the
site by The Center, formerly known as The Senior Center. The proposed new use will offer
education, training, and social/cultural/recreational opportunities to adult program participants.
While the applicant is proposing to occupy the existing building, the conceptual plan demonstrates
some changes to the area around the building. One of which is the potential future conversion of
the parking area on the eastern side of the building to a new passive outdoor recreation area. Staff
finds this potential conversion to be an improvement to the existing, impervious nature of the lot,
however, this area lies within a water protection ordinance buffer, commonly referred to as the 100ft
stream buffer area, and adjacent to preserved steep slopes. Therefore, to ensure no substantial
detriment to the stream is created if/when this area is converted to recreation space, Staff offers the
following condition:
• Prior to converting a portion of the parking area to outdoor recreation space, provide silt
fencing along the top of preserved steep slopes.
The proposed private school use will require less on -site parking than is currently available. The
subject property currently offers 106 parking spaces, however, the parking requirement to support
expected proposed uses — private school and office — is 80 parking spaces, as determined by
Zoning Staff. This includes 69 parking spaces for VIA staff members and 11 parking spaces which
will be open to visitors. No parking need is anticipated for program participants as none of the
participants drive independently. This reduced parking need is also expected to reduce the number
of daily vehicular trips to and around the property.
To accommodate participant travel to the subject property, VIA anticipates participants will use
public transportation (CAT stops for routes 7 and 12 are located along Hillsdale Drive, adjacent to
or across from the property), Jaunt buses, cabs, or be dropped off and picked up by family vehicles.
VIA also expects four full-sized buses to provide drop off and pick up services for participants
between the ages of 18 and 22. These buses will access the site twice a day, once in the morning
around 8:45am and once in the afternoon around 2:45pm.
Simulated auto -turn analysis for the full-sized buses entering and exiting the site revealed that
buses executing right turn movements out of the site will temporarily cross into the dedicated left
turn lane of opposing traffic [Attachment 2, Sheet C2.0]. This potential traffic conflict was found to
be inadvisable by VDOT, particularly since the buses are expected to provide drop off and pick up
services regularly. Thus, it was recommended by the VDOT staff reviewer that the applicant explore
alternative options.
Based on these findings, Staff proposes the following changes be made to the conceptual plan so
that the proposed use will not be a detriment to adjacent property:
• The applicant will work with VDOT to make sure VDOT concerns, regarding the ingress and
egress of buses providing regular drop off and pick up services to the site, are addressed.
2. Character of the nearby area is unchanged. Whether the character of the adjacent parcels
and the nearby area will be changed by the proposed special use.
The proposed special use on the subject property is consistent with the existing character of the
area, in that it will provide medical services and office uses. Also, VIA's proposal for the Autism
Service Center suggests a repertoire of support, education, and recreational programming that is
similar in nature to what is currently offered by The Center.
3. Harmony. Whether the proposed special use will be in harmony with the purpose and intent
of this chapter,
The purpose and intent of the C1-Commerical zoning district is to permit retail, service, and public
use establishments to support urban areas, communities, and villages. Located at the edge of
commercial and residential areas, the special use permit request for a private school in this area is
in harmony with the intent of this zoning district as well as the transition between these zoning
classifications — commercial and residential.
with the uses permitted by right in the district,
The addition of a private school in this district will not restrict the current uses or other by -right uses
available on this, or adjacent properties.
with the regulations provided in Section 5 as applicable,
No supplementary regulations apply for this use.
and with the public health, safety, and general welfare.
VIA's proposal for a private school use on this property will offer opportunities for adults with autism
spectrum disorder in the community to enhance vocational skills to obtain gainful employment,
practice skills needed to live more independently, and better integrate into the larger Charlottesville
community. This program can be seen as promoting public health, safety, and general welfare of
the community.
As is typical with private school uses, Staff offers the following conditions to ensure the proposed
use will not have any detrimental impacts to public health, safety, or general welfare:
• Maximum enrollment shall be 65 participants.
• Normal hours of operation for the center shall be from 7:30am to 6:OOpm, Monday through
Friday, with occasional evening and weekend activities.
Note: Traffic and parking related impacts were previously discussed under factor 1 above.
4. Consistency with the Comprehensive Plan. Whether the proposed special use will be
consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.
The Places29 Master Plan, revised in 2015, designates this property as "Institutional" which allows
for civic uses, parks, recreational facilities, and similar uses on County -owned property. With the
upcoming move of The Center, which has existed here since 1991, to a new location along
Belvedere Boulevard, the civic uses currently offered here may not be as prevalent or publicly -
accessible as they have been previously. However, the proposal by VIA for an Adult Service Center
Program offers very a similar new use of the existing building and parcel — support, education, and
recreation opportunities for adult participants in the program. Therefore, the proposed use is
consistent with the practiced intent of this designation.
SUMMARY:
Staff finds the following factors favorable to this request:
1. The proposal provides specialized support, education, and training opportunities for adults in the
community with autism spectrum disorder.
2. Community members in attendance at the community meeting generally agreed that this was an
excellent location for VIA.
Staff finds the following factor(s) unfavorable to this request:
1. Simulated auto -turn analysis for the full-sized buses entering and exiting the site demonstrates
that buses executing right turn movements out of the site will temporarily occupy a portion of the
dedicated left turn lane of opposing traffic.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Based on the findings described in this report and factors identified as favorable, staff recommends
approval of special use permit application SP201800004 with the changes outlined below and
following conditions.
Changes
• The applicant will work with VDOT to make sure VDOT concerns, regarding the ingress and
egress of buses providing regular drop off and pick up services to the site, are addressed.
Conditions
1. Development of the use shall be in general accord with the conceptual plan titled "Virginia
Institute of Autism" prepared by Timmons Group, with the latest revision date of 07/15/2019, as
determined by the Director of Planning and the Zoning Administrator. To be in general accord
with the Conceptual Plan, development shall reflect the following major elements within the
development essential to the design of the development:
• Location of potential future outdoor recreation area as shown on the plan.
Minor modifications to the plan which do not conflict with the elements above may be made to
ensure compliance with the Zoning Ordinance.
2. Maximum enrollment shall be 65 participants.
3. Normal hours of operation for the center shall be from 7:30am to 6:OOpm, Monday through
Friday, with occasional evening and weekend activities.
4. Prior to converting a portion of the parking area to outdoor recreation space, provide silt fencing
along the top of preserved steep slopes.
POSSIBLE PLANNING COMMISSION MOTION - SP201900004:
A. Should the Planning Commission choose to recommend approval of this special use permit:
Move to recommend approval of SP201900004, Virginia Institute of Autism Adult Service Center,
with the changes and conditions as recommended by staff.
B. Should the Planning Commission choose to recommend denial of this special use permit:
Move to recommend denial of SP201900004, Virginia Institute of Autism Adult Service
Center. Should a commissioner motion to recommend denial, he or she should state the
reason(s) for recommending denial.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment 1 —Vicinity Map
Attachment 2 — Conceptual Plan, last revised on July 15, 2019
Attachment 3 — Applicant Justification for Special Use Permit
Any tlelermination of topography or conlouR or any Jepidon of physical Improyemeals. pro per, lines or loundanes a for general Inbrmation ony add shall rut Le used! far the design, modification, or construction of Improvements to real p.,q odor flood plain determination. August 5, 2019
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VIRGINIA INSTITUTE
OF AUTISM
ADULT SERVICE CENTER
CONCEPTUAL PLAN
COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE, VIRGINIA
SPECIAL USE PERMIT SUP 2019-00004
4/15/2019
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VICINITY MAP
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NOTES
PARCEL: 061 WO-02-00-002A1
ADDRESS: 491 HILLSDALE DRIVE, CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA 22901
ZONING: C1 COMMERCIAL (AIRPORT IMPACT AREA)
EXISTING CONDITIONS IS BASED ON ALBEMARLE COUNTY GIS
SETBACKS:
FRONT: 10' (MIN), 30' (MAX)
SIDE AND REAR: 50' ADJACENT TO RESIDENTIAL, V OTHERWISE
PRESENT USE: SENIOR CENTER
PROPOSED USE: PRIVATE SCHOOL
EXISTING PARKING: 109 SPACES (6 ADA SPACES)
PROPOSED PARKING: 90 PARKING SPACES (6 ADA SPACES)
EXISTING IMPERVIOUS AREA = 1.36 ACRES
PROPOSED IMPERVIOUS AREA = 1.22 ACRES
WATER QUANTITY AND QUALITY: NO WATER QUANTITY DETENTION OR WATER
QUALITY IMPROVEMENTS WILL BE REQUIRED DUE TO THE LIMITED DISTURBANCE
AND THE REDUCTION OF IMPERVIOUS SURFACE
GRADING: FINE GRADING WILL BE SHOWN WITH SITE PLAN SUBMISSION. NO
CONTOURS, PER GIS, REQUIRE ADJUSTMENT.
STEEP SLOPES: AREAS SHOWN AS PRESERVED SLOPES ARE FROM THE COUNTY
GIS MAPPING SYSTEM, BUT MAY NOT BE ACCURATE. DURING SITE PLAN, THEY WILL
BE FIELD VERIFIED AND HONORED.
DEVELOPER INFORMATION
VIRGINIA INSTITUTE OF AUTISM
943 GLENWOOD STATION LANE, SUITE 201
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA 22901
CONTACT: ETHAN LONG
434-923-8252
ENGINEER INFORMATION
TIMMONS GROUP
608 PRESTON AVENUE, SUITE 200
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA 22903
CONTACT: CRAIG KOTARSKI, PE
434-327-1688
Sheet Index
Sheet Number Sheet Title
C1.0
EXISTING CONDITIONS
C2.0
CONCEPTUAL PLAN
ADJUST
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ACR S: 1. 1
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(TYP.)
REMOVE CURB
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(10-15 SPACES)
II
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II I 0 20' 40'
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DATE
4-9-2019
DRAWN BY
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DESIGNED BY
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CHECKED BY
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SCALE
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LEFT IN
SCALE 1"=30'
0 30' 60'
BUS TURNING MOVEME
RIGHT OUT
SCALE 1"=30'
0 30' 60' /
BUS TURNING MOVEME
LEFT OUT
SCALE 1"=30'
0 30' 60'
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EXISTING BUILDING
CURRENT USE: SENIOR CENTER
PROPOSED USE: VIRGINIA INSTITUTE OF AUTISM
TAX AP:6 -02 Al
ACRE : 1.7
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(TYP.)
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DRAWN BY
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CHECKED BY
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SCALE
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1OB NO.
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C2.0
L
WILLIAMS MULLEN
MEMORANDUM
TO: Albemarle County Community Development Staff
FROM: Lori Schweller, Williams Mullen
Valerie Long, Williams Mullen
DATE: April 15, 2019
RE: Virginia Institute of Autism Special Use Permit Application Narrative
PROJECT DETAILS:
Applicant:
Contact for Applicant:
Name of Project:
Short Description:
Proposed Site:
PROPERTY DETAILS:
Parcel ID Number:
Total Acres:
Owner:
Property Address:
Current Use:
Magisterial District:
Zoning:
Proffered:
ZMAs Related to Proffers:
Entrance Corridor:
Comprehensive Plan Area
Comprehensive Plan Use:
Land Use:
Surrounding uses:
Virginia Institute of Autism (VIA)
Lori Schweller and Valerie Long, Williams Mullen
Virginia Institute of Autism Adult Service Center
SUP for Virginia Institute of Autism Adult Service Center
491 Hillsdale Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22901
061 WO-02-00-002A1
1.71
Senior Center, Incorporated
491 Hillsdale Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22901
Community Center for seniors (`The Center")
Rio
Commercial C-1
No
N/A
No
Neighborhood 2- Places 29 Hydraulic
Institutional
Commercial
The Laurels of Charlottesville across Hillsdale Drive to the west;
Office building to the south; RoseWood Village Assisted Living
across Greenbrier Drive and Hillsdale Drive to the north;
Branchlands across Greenbrier Drive to the northeast; and
Meadow Creek and vacant land to the east
SITE PICTURES:
Front of Building
Site Vicinity and Parking Lot
A. PROPOSAL:
VIA's Adult Service Center Program will be a year-round, day program designed to provide
adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) ongoing, practical education and support
throughout adulthood. This unique program will offer comprehensive day programming services
designed to promote the skills necessary for adults with ASD to lead productive and enjoyable
lives. The Adult Service Center will be staffed by a highly trained team of clinicians and
educators who will develop and deliver programs that provide the support needed for all
program participants to better integrate into the Charlottesville community. From vocational
training to social support and clinical services, the Adult Service Center will equip program
participants with the tools they need to enhance and maintain autonomy.
The Adult Service Center will offer a variety of cla
skills, independent living skills, and enable program
cultural and recreational activities offered both a
Charlottesville community. The facility will be d
opportunities. For example, there will be a "mock"
sses and activities to enhance vocational
p
t
e
0
program participants to practice skills needed to live
develop social and hygiene skills, budget, and comple
group). In addition, there will be spaces specifically de
to obtain gainful employment. These spaces will ena
development of employable skills including domestics,
articipants to participate in a variety of
the Adult Service Center and in the
signed to specifically enhance these
ne-bedroom apartment that will enable
more independently (e.g., cook, clean,
to chores independently or as part of a
signed to teach vocational skills needed
ble specific instruction to promote the
crafts, gardening, assembly and office -
2
related activities. Finally, there will be spaces designated to facilitate recreation and social
interaction. This will enable on -site music classes, cultural events, art activities and visits to
parks, coffee shops, shopping centers, concerts, and sporting events in the local community.
Finally, we envision the Adult Service Center also serving as VIA's headquarters. The senior
leadership team, human resources department, finance department, and advancement
department will have their offices and workspaces in the building.
In the first 3-5 years of occupancy, VIA envisions the Adult Service Center serving
participants ages 18 years and older. After 5 years, it is anticipated that the Adult Service
Center will only serve participants ages 22 and older. (The Applicant is planning a capital
campaign that will enable it to move the 18-22-year old students to another facility.)
The anticipated facility hours of operation to be 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday — Friday.
Counts of Adult Service Center participants and staff:
• 52 Adult participants (non -drivers)
• 69 Adult Service Center staff members (including 13 VIA administration members)
Parking needs:
• Currently there are 106 parking spaces on -site
• VIA anticipates needing a total of 80 parking spaces (69 staff, 11 open) to serve all
uses in the building.
[NOTE: As to the 25% of the building to be used for office space, calculation
pursuant to Code Sec. 4.12.6 would be as follows: 21,788 gross square feet x .80 =
17,430 net square feet /4 = 4,358 square feet / 200 = 22 spaces.]
Participant arrival/departure schedules:
• VIA anticipates Adult Service Center participants arriving via public transportation, Jaunt
Inc. buses, cabs, and being dropped off and picked up via family vehicles (no
participants in the Adult Service Center drive independently).
• For those participants who are between 18-22 years of age, we anticipate four full-size
school buses dropping off at approximately 8:45 a.m. and picking up at 2:45 p.m. Note
that the buses will not be full, even though full-size.
• Adult Service Center staff stagger -arrive beginning at 7:30 a.m. and stagger -depart
through 6:00 p.m., with the majority arriving by 8:00 a.m. and departing by 4:30 p.m.
Many of the uses and day-to-day activities that VIA proposes for the 491 Hillsdale Drive
property are similar to those uses currently carried out at the property by The Center (formerly
the Senior Center). VIA does not propose to change the existing building footprint. Further, VIA
expects to have significantly fewer parking needs and requirements, and to generate fewer trips
per day. As shown on the Conceptual Plan and on the Aerial Plan, VIA plans to convert a
portion of the parking lot into a fenced green area for passive recreational use. The green area
may be grass or artificial turf and may include an asphalt path encircling the area.
Additional Information on VIA:
The Virginia Institute of Autism (VIA) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded in 1996 and
headquartered in Charlottesville, Virginia. VIA's mission is to help people overcome the
challenges of autism through innovative, evidence -based programs in education, outreach and
3
adult services. In response to a diagnosis that is associated with isolation, VIA builds community
bridges. To do this, VIA uses its expertise to translate science into service. VIA employs state-
of-the-art, evidence -based approaches that are tailored for each individual and their family.
Through collaborative partnerships with the University of Virginia and others, it develops
services that result in meaningful and profound changes in the lives of the people it serves. With
its James C. Hormel School, Outpatient Services, and Adult Services, VIA addresses the unique
needs of people with autism throughout their lifespan. The organization provides clinical and
educational services regardless of the individual's race, national or ethnic origin, cultural
heritage, religion or political beliefs.
B. CONSISTENCY WITH THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
The primary designated use of the Property on the Places 29 Master Plan for the Northern
Development Areas is Institutional. County Community Development Department staff has
determined that the proposed use is consistent with this designation.
C. IMPACTS ON PUBLIC SAFETY, PUBLIC FACILITIES, PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE &
ENVIRONMENTAL FEATURES
The proposed project will not have any negative impacts on public safety, public facilities, public
infrastructure or environmental features. The Property is currently used as community center
hosting events and educational programming for seniors. The proposed use will be very similar
in impact except that none of the clients of VIA will drive vehicles to the site. Therefore, traffic
and parking needs are expected to be reduced. The conversion of a portion of the parking lot to
natural or artificial grass to be used as a passive recreational space will disturb only 4,100
square feet and will not involve any changes to ground elevation or tree removal.
SUMMARY:
The proposed special use will not be a detriment to adjacent lots or change the character of the
zoning district as the use will be very similar to the current use by Senior Center, Incorporated
and the Applicant does not propose any changes to the Property other than to add fencing and
convert a portion of the parking lot to green space. Impact to the neighborhood may be
lessened in that the clients of VIA will not drive and park onsite. Office use is permitted by right
in the C-1 district. The educational uses will have similar impact to the current community
center and educational uses of the Senior Center.
VIRGINIA INSTITUTE
OF AUTISM
ADULT SERVICE CENTER
CONCEPTUAL PLAN
COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE, VIRGINIA
SPECIAL USE PERMIT SUP 2019-00004
4/15/2019
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PARCEL: 061 WO-02-00-002A1
ADDRESS: 491 HILLSDALE DRIVE, CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA 22901
ZONING: C1 COMMERCIAL (AIRPORT IMPACT AREA)
EXISTING CONDITIONS IS BASED ON ALBEMARLE COUNTY GIS
SETBACKS:
FRONT: 10' (MIN), 30' (MAX)
SIDE AND REAR: 50' ADJACENT TO RESIDENTIAL, V OTHERWISE
PRESENT USE: SENIOR CENTER
PROPOSED USE: PRIVATE SCHOOL
EXISTING PARKING: 109 SPACES (6 ADA SPACES)
PROPOSED PARKING: 90 PARKING SPACES (6 ADA SPACES)
EXISTING IMPERVIOUS AREA = 1.36 ACRES
PROPOSED IMPERVIOUS AREA = 1.22 ACRES
WATER QUANTITY AND QUALITY: NO WATER QUANTITY DETENTION OR WATER
QUALITY IMPROVEMENTS WILL BE REQUIRED DUE TO THE LIMITED DISTURBANCE
AND THE REDUCTION OF IMPERVIOUS SURFACE
GRADING: FINE GRADING WILL BE SHOWN WITH SITE PLAN SUBMISSION. NO
CONTOURS, PER GIS, REQUIRE ADJUSTMENT.
STEEP SLOPES: AREAS SHOWN AS PRESERVED SLOPES ARE FROM THE COUNTY
GIS MAPPING SYSTEM, BUT MAY NOT BE ACCURATE. DURING SITE PLAN, THEY WILL
BE FIELD VERIFIED AND HONORED.
DEVELOPER INFORMATION
VIRGINIA INSTITUTE OF AUTISM
943 GLENWOOD STATION LANE, SUITE 201
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA 22901
CONTACT: ETHAN LONG
434-923-8252
ENGINEER INFORMATION
TIMMONS GROUP
608 PRESTON AVENUE, SUITE 200
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA 22903
CONTACT: CRAIG KOTARSKI, PE
434-327-1688
Sheet Index
Sheet Number Sheet Title
C1.0
EXISTING CONDITIONS
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COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE
Department of Community Development
401 McIntire Road, North Wing
Charlottesville, Virginia 229024596
Phone (434) 296-5832 Fax (434) 972-4126
September 16, 2019
Lori H. Schweller
321 East Main St., Suite 400
Charlottesville, VA 22902
RE: SP201900004 Virginia Institute of Autism Adult Service Center Revised Letter
Dear Ms. Schweller,
The Albemarle County Planning Commission, at its meeting on August 20, 2019, voted to
recommend approval of SP201900004 with the conditions as recommended in the presentation by
staff.
If you should have any questions or comments regarding the above noted action, please do not
hesitate to contact me at (434)296-5832.
RSi'I
Maria leason
Senior Planner
Planning Division
cc: Senior Center Incorporated
1180 Pepsi Place
Charlottesville, VA 22901
Albemarle County Planning Commission
DRAFT Minutes August 20, 2019
The Albemarle County Planning Commission held a public hearing on Tuesday, August 20, 2019,
at 6:00 p.m., at the County Office Building, Lane Auditorium, Second Floor, 401 McIntire Road,
Charlottesville, Virginia.
Members attending were Tim Keller, Chair; Julian Bivins; Daphne Spain, Vice -Chair; Karen
Firehock; Pam Riley; and Bruce Dotson.
Members absent: Jennie More; and Luis Carrazana, UVA representative.
Other officials present were David Benish, Interim Director of Planning; Carolyn Shaffer, Clerk to
Planning Commission; Scott Clark; Mariah Gleason; Michaela Accardi; Rachel Falkenstein; Lea
Brumfield; and Andy Herrick.
Call to Order and Establish Quorum
Mr. Keller called the regular meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. and established a quorum
Public Hearing Items
SP201900004 — Va Institute for Autism Adult Service Center
Mr. Keller asked for the staff report.
Ms. Mariah Gleason said this is a request to use an existing building as a headquarters and also
as a site for a new Adult Service Center program. She said the headquarters and office spaces
are already consistent with the by -right uses of the property; however, the proposed program
requires a Special Use Permit. Ms. Gleason said the Adult Service Center will serve a private
school use and offer a year-round comprehensive program, serving approximately 52 adult
participants in the community with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and will be staffed by 69
employees. She said the proposal is not changing any part of the building, but there are some
exterior changes being offered with the conceptual plan. Ms. Gleason said one thing to note is
that it is expected to actually decrease in the vehicle trip generation offered by this change in use.
Ms. Gleason said the site is located at the current Center, which is formerly known as The Senior
Center. She indicated on a map to the location, off of Seminole Trail, at the intersection of
Greenbrier Drive and Hillsdale, around the U.S. Post Office. Ms. Gleason said The Center has
been operating at this location since 1991, but they expect to be moving to a new location at
Belvedere Boulevard. She said VIA's proposal is a new use for the site.
Ms. Gleason said the conceptual plan offered by the applicant is proposing the following on -site
changes to the parking lot, curb adjustment and relocating to the parking islands: a proposed
fence around the outdoor recreation areas; a new garden area, as well as a possible conversion
of a portion of the parking lot into an outdoor recreation space (which is a potential future
conversion and includes the removal of a shed and relocation of a dumpster and dumpster pad).
Ms. Gleason said in terms of the adjacent properties and characters, traveling along Greenbrier
Drive away from Seminole Trail, the uses around the site transition from commercial service uses
Albemarle County Planning Commission
Draft Minutes 08/20/2019
to residential uses. She said the businesses adjacent to the property include Rosewood Village
assisted living to the north and The Laurels of Charlottesville (a skilled nursing and rehabilitation
center) to the west, both of which are separated from the subject property by the traffic
intersection. Ms. Gleason said to the south of the property are office buildings, and to the east of
the property lie two planned unit developments (The Branchlands retirement village, and
Brookmill), noting that these residential areas are buffered from the site by a heavily vegetated
stream.
Ms. Gleason said this area is zoned for commercial uses and envisioned by the Comp Plan to
offer institutional uses. She said the proposed utilization of the site is found to be consistent with
both of these designations, and functionally very similar to the services currently offered at the
site by The Center — those being education, training, social, cultural, and recreational
opportunities to adult program participants.
Ms. Gleason said that after reviewing the application, staff recommended approval for the special
permit, with the following changes and conditions. She said the change offered here addresses
concerns from VDOT regarding the egressing buses from the site, and auto turn analysis (as seen
in the staff report) notes that the buses making right turns out of the site would cross over into the
designated left turn lane on Hillsdale Drive, which was opposing traffic and was not preferable by
VDOT. Ms. Gleason said the conditions offered here were those typically used for Special Use
Permits associated with private schools, and addressing changes to the site plan enrollment,
hours and operation.
Ms. Gleason said the fourth condition offered addresses future conversion of the parking area.
She explained that since the disturbance of the area is less than 10,000 square feet, it would not
require an erosion and sediment control, and that this condition was offered in lieu of that to
protect the adjacent stream.
Ms. Gleason said that since the staff report was written, the applicant has worked with VDOT to
address the recommended changes and has submitted a revised conceptual plan. She said that
based on a site visit with VDOT, the applicant and VDOT have agreed to a solution where VIA
would post a signage notifying buses that only a left turnout is permitted, which would avoid them
crossing into the center line of traffic. Ms. Gleason said this would also remove the need to adjust
the curb and relocate two of the parking islands and was found to be a better solution.
Ms. Gleason noted that the revised recommendations from what had been in the staff report were
provided to the commission and offers the addition of a fourth condition that addresses the
concerns of VDOT. She added that the first draft condition has been updated to reference the
revised conceptual plan. Ms. Gleason said that VDOT has noted that should a safety concern
develop due to non-compliance with the sign direction, VDOT may require further changes to the
entrance in the future.
Ms. Gleason said that with these changes, staff recommended approval of the special use permit
with five conditions.
Ms. Firehock noted that the presentation was going too fast.
Ms. Gleason apologized and asked if the commission wanted the red line version.
[Many people spoke off the microphone.]
Albemarle County Planning Commission
Draft Minutes 08/20/2019
Ms. Gleason concluded the staff presentation, and that she would be happy to answer questions
Mr. Keller asked if Ms. Gleason could clean up the next slide she would be presenting. He asked
the commissioners if there were any questions for staff before opening the public hearing. Hearing
none, Mr. Keller opened the public hearing to hear from the applicant.
Ms. Lori Schweller, attorney with Williams Mullen representing VIA, introduced herself as well as
Mr. Ethan Long (CEO of VIA) and Mr. Ed Gillaspie (VIA Director of Operations). She said they
would be able to answer any questions the commission has about the project. Ms. Schweller said
she had a presentation and would attempt to go through the redundancies quickly while taking
the opportunity to tell the commission about VIA and the proposed use of the property.
Ms. Schweller indicated on a slide to the proposed location, which is the current location of The
Senior Center on Hillsdale Drive and located in Places 29 Hydraulic, noting that VIA did attend
the CAC meeting for Places 29 Hydraulic, which was generally supportive of the proposal. She
said there was an interested community member that had attended and asked questions about
the proposal. Ms. Schweller said the proposal is for an Adult Services Center and offices for VIA.
She said currently, these are located in three different locations in Charlottesville, and the goal is
to consolidate and put the headquarters at the proposed location. She said there would be
comprehensive, daily day programming for services for adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder that
would includes classes, activities, a mock one -bedroom apartment, and spaces for instruction in
vocational and domestic skills, among others. Ms. Schweller said there would also be cultural and
recreational activities at the service center, and visits out into the community to parks, shopping
centers, concerts, and events.
Ms. Schweller said that VIA's headquarters would be located there and indicated on a slide to a
building where the Senior Leadership Team would be located, which includes Human Resources,
Finance Department, and Advancement Department. She said there would be no change to the
building footprint, and some parking spaces would be removed that would not be needed. Ms.
Schweller said there is a plan in the future to potentially repurpose that area for recreational space
for the students.
Ms. Schweller said regarding the traffic inspection issue that current expected enrollment is 52
participants and 69 staff members. She said the parcel has more parking than it needs and is not
an issue. Ms. Schweller said the issue that VDOT had was with the circulation of the buses. She
said that for the first 3-5 years, there will be students attending this location (18-22 years old) who
will be coming on county and city buses from surrounding schools (about 60% of those being
Albemarle County buses). Ms. Schweller said they expect about 4 buses in the morning and
afternoon, and VDOT wanted to ensure that circulation was not an issues with those buses. She
said after about 5 years, VIA plans to have those students in a different location, so it wouldn't be
much of an issue.
Ms. Schweller indicated to the plan, which is to have the buses enter and circulate counter-
clockwise to let the students out in the front. She noted there was room for stacking in front of the
building. Ms. Schweller said the concern VDOT had was not with the entering of the parcel, but
with the exiting of the parcel, because when a full-sized school bus (which is the only type the city
uses, at about 35-40' long) exits the building, it crosses over the middle line on Hillsdale Drive.
She said one way to avoid this that was considered was to reconfigure the parking lot, but upon
visiting the site, they found that the simple solution was to require buses to exit out left only. Ms.
Schweller said this is a better, simpler solution because the original plan (which she indicated to
and explained on the slide), would create a new problem with leveling a new pedestrian crosswalk
Albemarle County Planning Commission
Draft Minutes 08/20/2019
that includes electronics and signs. She said that exiting out left was the solution, and that Mr.
Adam Moore from VDOT was happy with the solution and sent a letter to Ms. Gleason indicating
so. Ms. Schweller added that VIA will be installing a sign on the existing stop sign and indicated
on the slide to the movement that would no longer be permitted by full-sized buses.
Ms. Schweller said the property is currently zoned C1, and office uses are by -right, but the
proposed educational use is subsumed within the definition of private schools, and thus they are
requesting the commission's recommendation of a SUP for a private school. She said the
conditions, as Ms. Gleason had explained, were acceptable to the applicant. Ms. Schweller said
there would be a maximum of 65 participants, and the development would be in accord with the
last conceptual plan the commission saw that was dated August 7. She said normal hours of
operation would be 7:30 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Friday, but they would like to have
occasional weekend and evening activities, noting that The Senior Center currently has more
days of the week than not and they therefore do not anticipate this being any problem with the
surrounding community.
Ms. Schweller concluded the presentation and offered to take any questions.
Mr. Keller suggested holding the questions until they have heard from the public.
Mr. Bivins asked if there was anyone from the public who wished to speak to the matter and heard
none.
Mr. Keller invited the applicant to come forward again. He asked if the commissioners had any
questions for the applicant.
Mr. Bivins noted that The Senior Center ran many bus trips out of the proposed location and for
all those years, the buses didn't seem to have any problems making right turns onto Hillsdale
Drive. He expressed confusion that VDOT suddenly had an issue with VIA (having fewer buses
and fewer people) making right-hand turns.
Ms. Schweller said the applicant asked the same question. She said that this was because it was
a by -right use with The Senior Center, and because VIA is requesting a SUP, analysis was in
order.
Ms. Riley said she was happy to see the application and a great program proposed for the reuse
of the building. She said that particularly for the older students, the intersection at Greenbrier is a
dangerous one, because there are no signalized lights and is also a confusing intersection for
drivers. Ms. Riley said VIA has obviously taken steps to fence the area, but she thought she would
mention this as her mother lives in the area, and she drives through it regularly.
Ms. Schweller said that Mr. Moore had commented that people in the area have not gotten used
to the new traffic configuration — not only the street configuration, but the entrances to the
proposed parcel and the neighboring parcel. She said this is an area that VDOT is looking at, but
there at least won't be any school buses going towards that intersection.
Mr. Keller closed the public hearing to bring the proposal back to discussion and action.
Ms. Spain echoed Ms. Riley's comments in that she was pleased to see that the building will be
reused in this way, and it seems like an excellent match.
Ms. Firehock said it was always refreshing to get a clear-cut, well -presented application that she
Albemarle County Planning Commission
Draft Minutes 08/20/2019
can understand thoroughly.
Mr. Dotson said he agreed with all the positive comments and was prepared to make a motion.
Mr. Dotson moved to recommend approval of SP201900004 Va Institute of Autism Adult Service
Center with the revised recommendations as presented by staff.
Ms. Riley seconded the motion, which was carried by a vote of 6:0 (with Ms. More absent).
Albemarle County Planning Commission
Draft Minutes 08/20/2019
RESOLUTION TO APPROVE
SP 2019-04 VIRGINIA INSTITUTE OF AUTISM ADULT SERVICE CENTER
WHEREAS, the Virginia Institute of Autism submitted an application for a special use permit to use
an existing building on Tax Parcel 061 WO-02-00-002A1, located at 419 Hillsdale Drive, for office and
private school uses for the purpose of an Adult Service Center program to serve 52 adults with 69 staff
members, and the application is identified as SP201900004 Virginia Institute of Autism Adult Service Center
("SP 2019-04"); and
WHEREAS, on August 20, 2019, after a duly noticed public hearing, the Albemarle County
Planning Commission recommended approval of SP 2019-04 with staff -recommended conditions; and
WHEREAS, on October 2, 2019, the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors held a duly noticed
public hearing on SP 2019-04.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that, upon consideration of the foregoing, the staff
report prepared for SP 2019-04 and all of its attachments, the information presented at the public hearing,
any written comments received, and the factors relevant to a special use permit in Albemarle County Code
§§ 18-18.2.2(5), 18-22.2.2(6), 18-33.39, and 18-33.40, the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors hereby
approves SP 2019-04, subject to the conditions attached hereto.
I, Claudette K. Borgersen, do hereby certify that the foregoing writing is a true, correct copy of a Resolution
duly adopted by the Board of Supervisors of Albemarle County, Virginia, by a vote of to as
recorded below, at a regular meeting held on
Clerk, Board of County Supervisors
Aye Nay
Mr. Dill
Mr. Gallaway
Ms. Mallek
Ms. McKee)
Ms. Palmer
Mr. Randolph
SP-2019-04 Virginia Institute of Autism Adult Service Center
Special Use Permit Conditions
Development of the use shall be in general accord with the conceptual plan titled "Virginia
Institute of Autism Adult Service Center" prepared by Timmons Group, with the latest revision
date of August 6, 2019, as determined by the Director of Planning and the Zoning
Administrator. To be in general accord with the Conceptual Plan, development shall reflect the
following major elements within the development essential to the design of the development:
Location of potential future outdoor recreation area as shown on the plan.
Minor modifications to the plan which do not conflict with the elements above may be made to
ensure compliance with the Zoning Ordinance.
2. Maximum enrollment shall be 65 participants
3. Normal hours of operation for the Center shall be from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through
Friday, with occasional evening and weekend activities.
4. Signage must be provided onsite, near the point of egress, notifying buses that only a left turn
out is permitted.
5. Prior to converting a portion of the parking area to outdoor recreation space, silt fencing must
be provided along the top of preserved steep slopes.