HomeMy WebLinkAboutSP200900027 Legacy Document 2010-03-10COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE
STAFF REPORT SUMMARY
Project Name: SP200900027 Grayson Farm
Airstrip
Planning Commission Public Hearing
March 2. 2009
Owner: Tim Schmidt
Acreage: 275.34 acres
TMP: Tax Map 121 Parcel 82H �
Location: 6507 Scottsville Road (Route 20
South), north of Scottsville Road and Glendower
Road junction.
Magisterial District: Scottsville
RA (Rural Areas): X
Proposal: Special Use Permit to construct a
private 1600' grass airstrip for a single- engine
plane.
Character of Property: The property is
characterized primarily by wooded area along the
eastern and southern edges of the parcel
boundary, and large open fields with hedgerows in
the north and west portions of the parcel. The
main house is located approximately one- quarter
of a mile east of Scottsville Road, and several
farm buildings are located approximately one -
quarter of a mile southeast of the main house.
Factors Favorable:
1.The proposed use would only minimally
impact the character of the site, given that no
permanent structures or improvements would
be constructed.
2.There are no anticipated detrimental impacts
on adjacent property resulting from the
or000sed use.
Staff: Eryn Brennan. Senior Planner
Board of Supervisors Public Hearing:
To be determined
Applicant: Tim Schmidt
Special Use Permit: 10.2.2 (19) Private
airport
Existing Zoning and By -right use: Rural Areas:
agricultural, forestral, and fishery uses;
residential density (0.5 unit/acre)
Conditions: Yes
Requested # of Dwelling Units: NIA
Comprehensive Plan Designation:
Rural Areas — preserve and protect
agricultural, forestral, open space, and
natural, historic and scenic
resources /density (0,5 unit/acre)
Use of Surrounding Properties; The
surrounding context is comprised of large
forested parcels intermixed with open agricultural
land. The parcels to the south and north are
located in the Totier Creek Agricultural and
Forestal District, and several parcels to the
northeast and southeast are under conservation
easements
Factors Unfavorable:
1. The use does not directly contribute to the
goals outlined in the Rural Areas section of
the Comprehensive Plan.
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of this Special Use Permit, with conditions.
STAFF PFRSON:
PLANNING COMMISSION:
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS:
SP2009 -27 Grayson Farm Airstrip
Eryn Brennan, Senior Planner
March 16, 2010
TBD
Petition:
PR(Al-'L "I : 5P200900027 Orayson Darn/ Airstrip
PRO110SED: C'onst'rict private 1600' grass airstrip 1,01- "ingle- engine airplanes
ZONINU CATEGORYX&NE-.RAL USAGE: RA Rur;d Are;tti - ;lgricullural, I«restal, rind lishcry uses;
residential density (0} 5 LIIIW/Icre in clek'cl0plt1eZ11 leas)
SECTION: 10.2? (19) Private airport
COMPRl:IIEi:N51V1: I'I.AN I,ANI)tJSI;,`1)I;NSI'I'Y: Rur {11 Areas- prescrvcrind pratcctZlg'icuhrtr;ll, I'�11'cst;ll,
open space, arld natural, historic and scenic N90LIrccs/ density (.5 unit/acre In development lots)
ENTRANCI: CORRIDOR: Ycs
LOCATION: 6507 Scottsville Road (Rt. 20 South), north of Scottsville Road and [rlendu \4'Cl' Itr7 }i(t �I111�I1>[1.
TAX MAI' /l'ARCEIL: 12100000082110
MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT: Scottsville
Character of the Area:
The surrounding context is comprised of primarily large forested parcels intermixed with agricultural
land to the north, south, and east. The parcels to the west are smaller, but are also primarily
forested (Attachment A). The property is located in the Totier Greek watershed, and several parcels
of land adjacent to the north, east, and south are located in the Totier Creek Agricultural and
Forestal District and/or are under conservation easements. The parcel is also located within the
Southern Albemarle Rural Historic District and the Route 20 Entrance Corridor (Attachment B). The
property is characterized primarily by wooded area along the eastern and southern edges of the
parcel boundary, and large open fields with hedgerows in the north and west portions of the parcel.
The main house is located approximately one - quarter of a mile east of Scottsville Road (Rt. 20
South), and several farm buildings are located approximately one - quarter of a mile southeast of the
main house.
Specifics of the Proposal:
The applicant is seeking approval of a 1000' private grass airstrip for a single- engine airplane
(Attachment C). The airstrip is proposed to be used in the daytime only, with no use from 10:00 am
to 12:00 pm on Sundays, in order to avoid disruption to a church located approximately three -
quarters of a mile away (Attachment 1). Use of the proposed airstrip would be limited to a maximum
of 250 take -offs and landings per year. The airstrip would be limited to Visual Flight Restricted (VFR)
flying, No significant site grading is proposed, nor any paving or additional roads. However, the
applicant would like to conduct some minor fill where necessary to even the landscape along the
proposed strip. A few trees along a fence line are proposed to be removed. The applicant will
convert a hay barn, identified on the concept plan (Attachment Q), into a hangar,
The decibel level at take -off of the single- engine plane proposed to be used on the airstrip is 63.6 to
70.3 decibels. The Zoning Ordinance states that noise levels of up to only 60 decibels are allowed
by -right in the Rural Areas; however, transient sounds generated from transportation, such as
private airports are exempt from noise restrictions. The applicant has also provided a chart
demonstrating that decibel levels at property lines and structures would not exceed 55.12dB at any
time during take -off (Attachment E).
No objections have been received from adjacent property owners, and the applicant has submitted
SP 2009 -27
PC March 16, 2010
Staff Report Page 1
letters to this effect from eight adjacent property owners (Attachment F). The applicant has also
indicated that an additional three adjacent property owners have no objection to the application. The
Charlottesville - Albemarle Airport and the Federal Aviation Administration have submitted letters
stating they have no objection to the proposed airstrip (Attachments G and H).
Planning and Zoning History:
This special use permit request is the first planning and zoning application for this property since the
adoption of the Zoning Ordinance.
Conformity with the Comprehensive Plan,
The land uses supported by the Rural Areas chapter of the Comprehensive Plan include
agriculture, forestry, and conservation. The proposed use does not directly contribute to these land
uses, but also does not negatively impact these land uses. There are no permanent improvements
proposed to the site to accommodate the proposed use; therefore, the proposed use would have
only a minimal impact on the rural character of the area. The agricultural activities and properties
under conservation easement located nearby and the adjacent Agricultural and Forestal District
would not be negatively impacted by the proposed activity with the conditions recommended by
staff. In summary, the limited scale of this proposal is such that it would not be detrimental to the
important elements that define Rural Area (agricultural /forestal resources; land
preservation /conservation; water supply resource; natural /scenicthistoricicultural resources). There
are no provisions in the Comprehensive Plan regarding private airstrips in the Rural Area.
A chart showing the history of airports, airstrips, helistops, and heliports in Albemarle County is
included below. Two special use permit applications were previously denied for reasons of adverse
ecological impacts of an airstrip and because a helistop was not an allowed use in an area zoned
Planned Development Mixed Commercial.
5P
Tax_M_aplPareel
Use
Action
Date
Zoning
05700-00-00 -
SP -71 -103
03280
PRIVATE AIRPORT
APPROVED
4/15/1971
R3
08600-00-00 -
SP -74 -421
02500
AIRPORT - PRIVATE
APPROVED
11/13/1974
R3
10600-00-00 -
SP -76 -095
005BO
AIRPORT /PRIVATE
APPROVED
1/4/1977
R4
06100-00-00 -
SP -77 -052
13400
HELICOPTER PAD
APPROVED
10/5/1977
N2
11100-00-00 -
SP -95 -061
00500
AIRPORT /PRIVATE
APPROVED
3/19/1986
R3
10200-00-00 -
SP -86 -033
035AO
HELIPAD
APPROVED
716/1986
R4
040B0- 00 -00-
SP -91 -028
06900
PRIVATE. AIRPORT
APPROVED
8121/1991
RI
08000-00-00 -
SP -92 -059
07000
HELIPORT
APPROVED
1/13/1993
R2
07800-00-00 -
SP -93 -018
02000
HELISTOP
DENII.D
9/15/1993
N3
04000-00-00 -
SP-93-31
03900
AIRSTRIP
DENIED
12/22/1993
RI
13400- 00 -00-
HELICOPTER
SP -02 -038
00300
LANDING,
APPROVED
1/8/2003
RA
02800-00-00-
SP-02-39
01200
AIRPORT /HELIPORT
APPROVED
1/8/2003
RA
SP 2009 -27
PC March 16, 2010
Staff Report Page 2
STAFF COMMENT:
Staff will address each provision of Section 31.2.4.1 of the Zoning Ordinance,
37.2.4.1: Special Use Permits provided for in this ordinance maybe issued upon a finding by
the Board of Supervisors that such use will net be of substantial detriment to adjacent
property,
As required in the supplemental regulations, there is no residence within 500 feet horizontally or
1,000 feet longitudinally of the airstrip; therefore, the proposed private airstrip would not constitute a
substantial detriment to adjacent properties. Associated traffic patterns or overall activity on the site
would not change as a result of this proposal. The applicant has submitted a diagram of calculated
sound levels demonstrating that the decibel level at takeoff would never exceed the 60 decibels
allowed by -right during the day A the Rural Areas (Attachment E). Therefore, the proposed airstrip
would have no noise impact on adjacent property owners. The proposed airstrip also would have
no visual impact on neighboring properties.
that the character of the district will not be changed thereby and
The proposed airstrip would require only minimal changes to the property, consisting mainly of
mowing a section of a hay field, which would return to a hay field when it is no longer mowed No
significant site grading is proposed, only minor fill to even the landscape, and no additional
structure to house the airplane is proposed, as the applicant would convert an existing hay barn
into a hangar. The applicant is proposing to remove a few trees where the airstrip would cross a
fence line,
that such use will be in harmony with the purpose and intent of this ordinance,
The purpose of the Rural Areas Zoning District is the preservation of agricultural and forestal lands
and activities; water supply protection; limited service delivery to the rural areas; and conservation
of natural, scenic, and historic resources The proposed use does not directly promote the
purposes of the Rural Areas Zoning District; however, private airstrips are allowed by special use
permit in the Rural Areas. Given that the requested use would not have a detrimental impact on
adjacent properties or the character of the district, it is not discordant with the goals and intent of
the Rural Areas Zoning. The proposed use also would have no adverse impact on the water
supply, traffic, or natural, scenic, and historic resources in the area.
with uses permitted by right in the district,
The subject property and the surrounding adjacent properties are zoned Rural Areas, The uses
permitted by right under RA zoning directly support agriculture, forestry, and conservation of rural
land. The proposed airstrip would not adversely affect the permitted by right uses in the Rural Area
zon'mg district.
with the additional regulations provided in section 5.0 of this ordinance,
The additional regulations provided in section 5.0 of the Zoning Ordinance address airports,
heliports, and helistops.
Staff will address each provision of Section 5 1.01 of the Zoning Ordinance as follows;
a. In review of a special use permit petition for an airport or heliport, the board of
supervisors shall be mindful of the substantial public investment in the Charlottesville -
Albemarle Airport, and shall only approve such petition upon a finding that:
1. Equivalent or better service is not available at the Charlottesville - Albemarle
Airport;
SP 2009 -27
PC March 16, 2010
Staff Report Page 3
The applicant has indicated that the one and a half hour round -trip commute to the
Charlottesville - Albemarle Airport is inconvenient and that there is an approximately
five -year waiting list to lease hangar space for private planes.
2. Operation of the proposed airport or heliport will in no fashion interfere or
compete with the physical operations of the Charlottesville - Albemarle Airport,
The applicant has submitted an approval letter from the Charlottesville - Albemarle
Airport with his application (Attachment G).
b. No application shall be considered unless it is accompanied by five (5) copies of a
plan drawn to scale, showing the proposed location of the airport; boundary lines;
dimensions; names of owners of abutting properties; proposed layout of runways,
landing strips or areas, taxi strips, aprons, roads, parking areas, hangars, buildings and
other structures and facilities; the location and height of all buildings, structures, trees
and overhead wires falling within the airport approach zones and less than five hundred
(500) feet horizontally and one thousand (1,000) feet longitudinally from the proposed
runway; other pertinent data, such as topography and grading plan, drainage, water and
sewerage, etc. Copies of the plan shall be forwarded to the Federal Aviation
Administration and the Virginia Department of Aviation for comment and
recommendation on the following:
1. The area shall be sufficient to meet requirements of the Federal Aviation
Administration and Virginia Department of Aviation for the class of airport
proposed;
The Federal Aviation Administration has indicated no objection to the proposed
airstrip (Attachment H), and Condition 5, requiring approval and registration with the
Federal Aviation Administration and the Virginia Department of Aviation, and
approval from the Charlcttesville- Albemarle Airport has been included as a
condition of approval.
2. There are no existing flight obstructions such as towers, chimneys or other
tall structures, or natural obstructions outside the proposed airport which fall
within the airport imaginary surfaces or instrument approach zones to any of
the proposed runways or landing strips of the airport;
There are no flight obstructions within the airport imaginary surfaces or instrument
approach zones.
3. There is sufficient distance between the end of each usable landing strip
and the airport boundary to satisfy the requirements above. In cases where
air rights or easements have been acquired from the owners of abutting
properties in which the approach zones may fall, satisfactory evidence
thereof shall be submitted with the application.
There is sufficient distance at each end of the airstrip to satisfy the above
requirements. No air rights or easements have been acquired for this application.
c. In addition to the foregoing, the following requirements shall be met:
1. No runway or heliport area shall be located nearer than five hundred (500)
feet horizontally or one thousand (1,000) feet longitudinally to any residential
SP 2009.27
PC March 16, 2010
Staff Report Page 4
structure on any adjoining property. No hangar or aircraft storage shall be
located nearer than five hundred (500) feet to any residential structure on an
adjoining property. Within any agricultural or residential district, commercial
activities and private clubs located on the premises with a private airport,
flight strip, or helipad, are expressly prohibited;
The applicant has submitted a map demonstrating that no structures are located
within 500 feet horizontally nor 1,000 feet longitudinally of the proposed airstrip
(Attachment 1).
2. Any rooftop surface or touchdown pad which will be utilized as an elevated
heliport shall be designed and erected in a manner sufficient to withstand the
anticipated additional stress;
Not applicable.
3. All maintenance, repair and mechanical work, except that of an emergency
nature, shall be performed in enclosed buildings;
This has been made a condition of approval.
4. All facilities shall be located and designed so that operation thereof will not
seriously affect adjacent residential areas, particularly with respect to noise
levels;
The airstrip would not negatively impact adjacent properties. The applicant has also
submitted a chart of calculated sound levels demonstrating that the noise level
would not exceed that which is allowed by -right in the Rural Areas at both property
lines and structures.
5. Except for elevated helistops, no area used by aircraft under its own power
shall be located within a distance of five hundred (500) feet of any residential
structure on any adjoining property. Elevated helistops shall be located in
accordance with the bulk regulations of the zoning district in which located;
The applicant has submitted maps showing that no structure or property line is
located within 500 feet of the proposed airstrip (Attachments I & J)
6. All areas used by aircraft under its own power shall be provided with a
reasonably dust free surface.
The area to be used by the aircraft would be a grassy field.
and with the public health, safety and general welfare.
The public health, safety, and general welfare of the community are protected through the special
use permit process, which assures that the proposed uses are appropriate in the location
requested_ The Zoning Administrator, the County Engineer, and ARB staff have no objection to the
special use permit request.
SUMMARY;
Staff has identified the following factors favorable to this application:
SP 2009 -27
PC March 16, 2010
Staff Report Page 5
1. The proposed use would only minimally impact the character of the site, given that no
permanent structures or improvements would be constructed.
2. There are no anticipated detrimental impacts cn adjacent property resulting from the
proposed use.
Staff has identified one factor unfavorable to this application.
1. The use does not directly contribute to the goals outlined in the Rural Areas section of the
Comprehensive Plan,
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Based on the findings contained in this staff report, staff recommends approval of Special Use
Permit 2009 -27 Grayson Farm Airstrip with the fallowing conditions:
1. Development of the use shall be in conformity with the Conceptuai Plan entitled, "Concept
Plan," prepared by Tim Schmidt, and submitted October 13, 2009, (hereinafter, the "Conceptual
Plan "), as determined by the Director of Planning and the Zoning Administrator.
To be in conformity with the Conceptual Plan, development shall reflect the following
major elements within the development essential to the design of the development-
• location of airstrip
• location of buildings and structures
shown on the Conceptual Plan.
Minor modifications to the Conceptual Plan which do not conflict with the elements above may
be made to ensure compliance with the Zoning Ordinance.
2. The airstrip shall be located not less than 509 feet horizontally nor 1,000 feet longitudinally to
any existing dwelling on adjacent property.
3 No lighting of the airstrip shall be permitted.
4 The airstrip shall not be paved or graded.
5 Approval and registration with the Federal Aviation Administration and the Virginia
Department of Aviation, and approval from the Charlottesville - Albemarle Airport shall be
required.
6. Landings and takeoffs shall be limited to daylight hours only, and shall not be permitted
between the hours of M00am to 12.00pm on Sundays.
7. Ali maintenance, repair, and mechanical work, except that of an emergency nature, shall be
performed in an enclosed building.
S. Commercial activities and private clubs shall not be permitted on -site in conjunction with the
airstrip.
9. No fuel shall be stored on -site.
10. Aircraft usage shall be limited to a single- engine, fixed -wing aircraft.
11. The airstrip shall be limited to Visual Flight Restricted (VFR) flying.
12. No more than five (5) takeoffs and landings shall be allowed per week.
SP 2009 -27
PC March 16, 2010
Staff Report Pape 6
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A — Site Context
Attachment B — Character of the Area
Attachment C — Application Letter
Attachment D — Concept Plan
Attachment E — Calculated Decibel Levels at Property Lines & Structures
Attachment F — Letter of No Objection from Adjacent Property Owners
Attachment G — Letter of No Objection from Charlottesville Albemarle Airport
Attachment H — Letter of No Objection from Federal Aviation Administration
Attachment I — Map Showing Distances to Nearest Structures
Attachment J — Map Showing Distances to Nearest Property Lines
SP 2009 -27
PC March 16, 2010
Staff Report Page 7
P 2009 -27, Grayson Farm Airstrip Attachment A
..- . _ .. 0 1 ,..
,11 82A3
121 r32A5 rz zC
- - _ 7 r' . ;`h �[I�� y 1'4'p4 � �.s ,' • ' , n ! 4 t' � `r�4 , .
} yy ry
} .5''. +•'. i rf 4r• }4 , JV
F I _' 1 23: , r
f ��'i µ •'r �'J � r i
if122-4A
12 1�82D1 .121 -82D4
a
�� 'r +• _. - � "' .; I : ":'1 I' - � � ilk .. '�t �• ' Y ''
•1711,`
je
•1'u
121 -72A
., 211 828 "'�
.. t
� I ,' I r I � . �. �` 121 ' 128 ;ii •r,� r,' ,y, �
y w r Y +. .' ��y 41 1
;.!.1 '? !, 122-6
Nom.
r'
1
c r i 121 (. DD
1,21 �'7,6#
p
3 s fr �
y
Y1
' -_ 1• {y,�''. 1, +.+4: �,, _ [. 5 �,. � / �r�', +•s+«." . "e � 173{7,1 �. ' - -- - - - -.._. __�.
r
1 0 380 760 1.140 1,520
Feet
P 2009 -27, Character of the Area
Attachment B
Tatter C eek
• At u\ ;. -.
rNC c4 f"
0
111
4'Totier Cree!�
I
tom•
J
r�
r
1 Totier Creek
MILL
is Bridge
Legend
N ** Er". . C-hkr
I 0 380 760 1.140 1 5) x() CMVAW.l.e.
k St— Bu Men
Feet 0 C--b- C—fl
_ AV..IL,.l d F—.dl Owna
Sm1hern AlbeneIN RYril Him— Otte
u
0
ATTACHMENT C
To Wham It May Concern:
I am regucstirlg a Special use permit to build a private grays airstrip on my farm in
southern Albemarle county, I feel that my proposed strip will have no significant
negative effects on any neighbor's property, nor affect the rural character of our area.
Below is information that will explain and clarify the project 1 am proposing.
General restrictions:
-lily private use
- single engine plane only.
-no nighttime uSC no lights
-no bad weather flying (visual flip -lit restrictioIls -110 lllStl "LII11L 11t laying)
-110 flying between I OAM and nooil oil Sundays
-less than 250 take -offs and landings per year (less than 51 wick)
- grass strip
Noise
"file type of airplane I will be purchasing will have a Rotax 912 engine. 'I his is a
4 cylinder 100 horsepower engine that is only slightly larger than all old Volktiwagen
Beetle engine (90 hp). The decibel level at take -off, of'a plane lilac this is 63,6 to 70.
according to the European Aviation Safety Agency (note appendix `A'). This is
e(jL11ValC11t to a VUCULllll CICLIllcr or hair dryer (70 decibels), and Is much less than a
lawnmower ($5- 90d13). diesel truck (84dB) or a tractor (980) (note appendix `B'). The
noise oi'diescl trucks and motorcycles on I Iwy 20 arc louder (and much more frequent)
than tile: noise of' illy plane,
As YOU CW1 sc;e on the enclosed map. a plane following the departure and landing
pathway will conic no closer than 700' from any house. By FAA regulations. planes, arc
permitted to fly at 500' above ground level anywhere in rural areas. I assume they lecl
the noise at this level (even in plallCS 111LICIn larger and f inter than Illlne) is low enough
that it shouldn't bother the people on the ground, if the plane has a noise level of 70d13
(equivalent to a hair dryer) at 100' on take -off, the sounds you will licar if it is only 500'
away will be significantly less. Ca1cllIUL1011S, without taking into consideration the
blockage of -sound frolll trees and obstructions, show this to he 56dR (appendix U),
You coin sec by comparing this to the decibel chart that the noise should he insignificant.
Ak,o, remember that any noise heard will only occur, on average, five times per week fin-
apprommatcly 20 seconds oil take of1'and the same: oil landing.
When a plane is coming In for a landing, the; engine Is at idle (instead elf 1lcarly
full power on take -off} and the ]noise will be nowhere near the 700 level. and thcref(Ve
even less noticeable than on take -off.
Based on all these factors, I do not think the noise ofthe airstrip will have any
effect on 4ldjaccnt property.
).0
Safety
,Hie airstrip will only be permitted for VFR (visual flight rules) use. The
i-ninirnurn visibility distance for this is 3 miles, No bad weather Insti-Lii11CIlt I1ying Is
allowed. Also, no night Ilying is allowed (so the strip will have no lights), These fluctons
greatly improve flying, safety since nlcist problems arise due to weather conditions or
night flying.
The type of'plane I Would buy is known for its care of flying and sal'cty. The
take- offand landing, speed is about 45mph (very slow) and without power it glides 16
feet forward I'or every foot it descends. If there were a power failure at the nninimUrn
cruising altitude (500'), it would go over a mile; rind a half'bcfarc landing. This gives
plenty elf distance to find a safe and suitable Finding site, Those planes arc sturdy and
built for grass airstrips. Many come with a parachute for the plane. In an crncrgcncy, the
chute is deployed and the entire plane is gently lowered to the ground. This is llying at
its safest.
Environment
The grass airstrip I'm pi`oposing will be a snowed section of a hay field. The few
trees that will be taken out will be where the strip crosses a fcilce line. There will be no
mayor earth moving Involved, no new roads built aIld there will be no paving (therefore
no effect 011 water I'LL 11-0 When I'm no longer flying. I can step mowing the strip and
it returns to being a hay field. An existing hay bard will he converted to a hangar for the
plane's storage. The plane burns 5 gallons of ltlel each hOUr when CrUISIng ut 130 niph,
so the 26 miles per gallon efficiency is better than most autos — especially when a plane
can travel In a straight Mlle instead of Following roads.
The Charlottesville airport is a 45 minute drive from my property. Flying
anywhere always involves an 110111- and a half of commuting which bLIIIIS gas and adds to
the traffic in Charlottesville. Having an airstrip on my property will have no dorinicrital
enviroi-imental effect on the property itself and will also decrease my carbon footprint,
An aerial neap ol'thc proposed airstrip and sLirrounding land has bcell submitted.
Marked in reel is the is a hone 500' on either side clf'tlic runway alld extending 1000' past
the end of the rt111WtIy.
Also submitted today is, a chart showing the distance front the airstrip to the property
line of each adjoining property. The; distances to the structures on the neighboring
parcels arL: also listed. The decibel etileulutinrls for all of these distances have been
calculated and listed. The highest decibel level at the nearest property line is 55.12 and
the highest decibel level to 41 structure is 51.94. These noise levels are well below the 60
decibel level as allowed by right in Rural Areas.
The locations of the tre(:s in the airstrip zone can clearly be seen on the submitted
aerial map. The height of the trees is between 40' and 60'. The only structin-es within the
zone are my hay hare. my house, and nay guest house. All of these structures are well
below the height of tile; surrounding trees. The tallest of the structures is my house which
is an estimated 40' high.
The only above ground electrical wires, within the zone, run along Hwy 20. All the
power lines to the house are underground, and no lines go to the hay barn. The wires
along Hwy 20 are not an issue because they are lower than the trees in that area. The
field where the airstrip will be located drops off sharply (about 40') down to the
highway. The actual height of the wires is probably even with the ground level of the
airstrip.
As mentioned above, a chart was submitted that shows the distances and calculated
decibel levels to adjacent property lines and structures. These are in full compliance with
the 60 decibel level for Rural Areas. This project is also in full compliance with the other
factors ( vibration, glare, air pollution, water pollution, radioactivity, and electrical
interference) that are evaluated in an engineer's report.
Annual inspections of the plane are done by a certified mechanic at a commercial
airport and no work will be done on my site. The service activities done here will be
similar to taking care of a car. The plane will be washed and waxed periodically, and
only a few quart bottles of oil will be kept for the times when the oil level is low and
some needs to be added, There will be no de- greasers, de -icing agents, or other
environmentally deleterious agents kept or used in the hanger. There will be no fuel
stored on site.
I have no desire to have any negative impact on a neighbor's property or on the
enjoyment of their property. I have twice contacted all of the owners of property adjacent
to mine and have explained my proposal. i included a stamped envelope so they could
express any concerns. The majority of respondents had no objections, some didn't return
either questionnaire, and the only concerns expressed can be easily addressed.
With the size and location of the grass airstrip I'm proposing, along with the use
restrictions, I feel 1 can safely enjoy the hobby of recreational flying and have no
significant effect on our neighborhood.
Thank you,
Tim Schmidt
i�,
ti
do
MWQMAL�
Aft
dm
Igo
0)
-H.4 y
,w
WAW r
ATTACHMENT D
low
AP.
410
4k*
ATTACHMENT E
CALCULATED SOUND LEVELS AT PROPETY LINES AND STRUCTURES
Property
Distance to property line
dB
Distance to strtIcture
dB
121-82B
731 '
53.52
990"
50.89
122 -5
1420'
47.75
1920'
45.13
122 -5A
1287'
48.61
122 -4A
2340'
43.42
122 -3
3560'
39.77
3861'
39.07
122 -2A
3570'
39.75
3900'
38.98
122 -23
3334'
40.34
122 -2C'
2480'
42.91
2540'
42.70
121 -85
1520"
47.16
121 -82C'
982'
50,90
121 -83
725'
53.59
995"
50.84
121 -7413
610'
550)
121 -74
608'
55.12
877'
51.94
121 -72A
620"
54.05
994'
50.85
121 -7213
890"
51.51
1450'
47.57
121 -71
820"
52.52
1120'
49.82
121 -7013
1496"
47.3
Notc: Those calculations use 70.8 d13 as the maximum d13 level at take -off at 100 1t.
This is for a plane with the Rotax 912 engine as reported by the "European Aviation
Safety Agency ". The values are for completely Lmobstructcd sound wave travel. No
consideration is given for trees, struetures, or terrain blocking the sound- - which would
lower the actual dB levels.
ATTACHMENT F
Note. This is not a legally binding document, but it will give the zoning board and me an
indication of any opposition to a proposed private, grass airstrip on Grayson Farm (parcel
121 -82H). Please return it in the envelope provided and indicate if you have no
objections or whether you would like to talk to me to learn more about my airstrip.
As an owner of parcels 122 -5 and 122 -5A.
_x I have no opposition to the proposed airstrip
I have concerns about the proposed airstrip and would like more information
before I can make a decision.
Gerald or Rol
■
Note: This is not a legally binding document, but it will give the zoning board and me an
indication of any opposition to a proposed private, grass airstrip on Grayson Farm (parcel
121 -82H). Please return it in the envelope provided and indicate if you have no
objections or whether you would like to talk to me to learn more about my airstrip.
As an owner of parcel 121 -70B:
i have no opposition to the proposed airstrip
1 have concc ms about the proposed airstrip and would like more information
before 1 can make a decision.
Brian or .lance Hunter
K
Note: This is not a legally binding document, but it will give the zoning board and me an
indication of any opposition to a proposed private, grass airstrip on Grayson Farm (parcel
121 -82H). Please return it in the envelope provided and indicate if you have no
objections or whether you would like to talk to me to learn more about my airstrip.
As an owner of parcel 121 -72A:
I have no opposition siti to the proposed airstrip
I have concerns about the proposed airstrip and would like more information
before I can make a decision.
Ronald or Sharon Wormser
i-1
Note: This is not a legally binding document, but it will give the zoning board and me an
indication of any opposition to a proposed private, grass airstrip on Grayson Farm (parcel
121-82H). Please return it in the envelope provided and indicate if you have no
objections or whether you would like to talk to me to learn more about my airstrip.
As an owner of parcel 121-82B:
- have no opposition to the proposed airstrip
I have concerns about the proposed airstrip and would like more information
before I can make a decision.
Robert or Brenda Lloyd �.
1�
Note: This is not a legally binding document. but it will give the zoning board and me an
indication of any opposition to a proposed private, grass airstrip on Grayson Farm (parcel
121 -82H). Please return it in the envelope provided and indicate if you have no
objections or whether you would like to talk to me to learn more about my airstrip.
As an owner of parcel 122 -4A;
_ �1 ve no opposition to the proposed airstrip
1 have concerns about the proposed airstrip and would like more information
before 1 can make a decision.
Representative for LLB'
lq
Fbis is not a binding legal document, but it �xlll give the zoning board and me an
indication of'an) opposition to a propow d private. graww airstrip on Gra-N son Farm (parcel
121 -82H). Please return It In the cnol see cm,dope. ll you Indicate )ou have Concerns or
if' I don't receive a reel) in a week, Ill give you a call ,'()u W we can diSCUSS roar
reserv�xtions.
As owner cal' parcel 121 -8a;
1 ha\e no opposition to the proposed airstrip
I ha%c concerns and would like to talk personally ahOLlt th4 airstrip
" r
S
li ?t111 Janssen�..
JJ
f VJ
L'
O
Note: This is not a legally binding document.. but it will give the zoning hoard and min an
indication of 'any opposition to a propowd privatc_ grws airstrip on Grayson farm (parcel
121 -82H). Please return it in the envelope provided and indicate if you have no
ohjections or whether yOu would like to talk to me to leant more aK)ut my airstrip,
As an owner of parcel 121 -7413:
no opposition to the proposed airstrip
1 have concerns about the proposed airstrip and would like more information
before I can make a decision.
Robert Quick
L�
This is not a binding legal document, but it will give the zoning board and me an
indication of any opposition to a proposed private, grass airstrip on Grayson Farm (parcel
121 -$2H). Please return it in the enclosed envelope, if you indicate you have concerns or
if I don't receive a reply its a week. f1l give you a call you so we can discuss your
reservations.
As owner of parcel 122 -3, 1 ?2 -2A
V l have no opposition to the proposed airstrip
1 have concerns and would like to talk personally about the airstrip
Christ Church Representative 1. W- V el- Ocl� cu�
Via Email & U.S. Mail
)Tine 9, 2009
Mr, David Slutzky, Chairman
Albemarle County Board of Supervisors
401 McIntire Road
Charlottesville, VA 22911
RE: Citizen Request for Grass Strip
Dear Mr. Slutzky:
A`f'I ACMMENT G
CHARLOTTESVILLE ALBEMARLE
A I R P a R T
104 BOWEN Loop. SUITE 244
CHARLOTTESVILLE. VA 22911
Ph 434.973.8342
Fx 434.974,7476
I received correspondence from Mr. Tim Schmidt of Grayson Farm requesting that I
forward this letter to the Board of Supervisors, It is my understanding that Mr. Schmidt
intends to construct a 1700' grass landing strip on his farm, which is approximately 22
miles south of the Charlottesville - Albemarle Airport.
This landing strip should not interfere with the daily operations of the Charlottesville -
Albemarle Airport; and, the Charlottesville - Albemarle Airport Authority does not appose
this installation so long as the permit is qualified for a private -use, non- commercial strip
for Mr. Schmides personal use only. In addition, for public safety purposes, we recommend
the permit require the owner to obtain any and all necessary operating permits from the
Federal Aviation Administration and Virginia Department of Aviation, and should limit use
to Vl~R (Visual Flight Rules) operations. For the Board's information, the FAA requires the
submission of a Form 7480 (Notice of Landing Area Proposal), and the Virginia Department
of Aviation requires registration once FAA approval has been obtained. If the grass strip is
within 5 miles of any other landing strips, the Virginia Department of Aviation may require
additional steps.
Please let me know if you require additional information,
Best Regards,
Barbara Hutc ' son
Executive Director
M. Mr. Tim Schmidt via
Mr. John Robinson, Engineer, FAA - Washington Airports District Office
Mr. Mike Swain, Manager, Virginia Department of Aviation
U.S. Department
of Transportation
Federal Aviation
Administration
October 23, 2009
Tim Schmidt
6547 Scottsville RD
Scottsville, VA 24590
RE: (See attached Table I for referenced case(s))
DETERMINATION OF LANDING AREA PROPOSAL
Table 1 - Letter Referenced Case(s)
ATTACHMENT H
1 Aviation Plaza
Jamaica, NY 11434
Description: private use A to remove trees
We have determined that the proposed private use landing area, will not adversely affect the safe and efficient
use of the navigable airspace by aircraft, provided:
All operations are conducted in VFR weather conditions,
The landing area is limited to private use.
We recommend that:
A clear 20:1 approach slope be established. If there are obstructions that penetrate the 20:1 approach
surface, they should be removed or lowered. If the penetrating obstructions cannot be removed or
lowered, we recommend that the thresholds be displaced and appropriately marked, so as to provide
a clear 20:1 approach slope surface to each runway end.
The centerline of an airport runway should have a lateral separation of at least 60 feet from roads
and other objects for aircraft with approach speeds less than 50 knots and 120 feet for airplanes with
approach speeds of 50 knots or greater.
Please note that roads are defined as obstructions by FAR, Part 77. Private roads are the greater of a 10 foot
obstruction or the highest mobile object that normally traverses the road. Public roads are considered a 15 foot
obstruction, interstate highways arc a 17 foot obstruction, railroads are 23 foot obstructions and waterways are
the highest mobile object that traverses the waterway.
It is essential that each airport runway threshold meet the siting standards shown in Figures A2 -1, A2 -2, and
A2 -3 of FAA Advisory Circular (AC) 150/5300 -13, Airport Design.
Page 1 of 3 �4
Please note that roads are define( obstructions by FAR, Part 77. Private ; are the greater of 10 foot
obstruction or the highest mobile object that normally traverses the road. Public roads are considered a 15 foot
obstruction, interstate highways are a 17 foot obstruction, railroads arc 23 foot obstructions and waterways are
the highest mobile object that traverses the waterway.
Please notify the FAA within 15 days of completing the landing area by calling the FAA Area Flight Service
Station (AFSS) serving your landing area to let them know you are activating the landing area while the Airport
Master Record Form is being processed. Please tell the Flight Service Station representative that you have
received an aeronautical determination from the FAA, and supply them with the name of your landing area and
the coordinates,
Please return the enclosed Airport Master Record form to this office. When the processing of the Airport Master
Record form is completed, your landing area will have a site number and a permanent location identifier.
Indicate whether or not you would like to have your landing area shown on aeronautical charts. Charting also
depends on the amount of "clutter" already on the charts near your site.
In order to avoid placing any unfair restrictions on users of the navigable airspace, this determination is valid
until April 23, 2011, Should the facility not be operational by this date, an extension of the determination must
be obtained by 15 days prior to the expiration date of this letter.
This determination does not constitute FAA approval or disapproval of the physical development involved in
the proposal. It is a determination with respect to the safe and efficient use of navigable airspace by aircraft and
with respect to the safety of persons and property on the ground.
In making this determination, the FAA has considered matters such as the effects the proposal would have on
existing or planned traffic patterns of neighboring airports, the effects it would have on the existing airspace
structures and projected programs of the FAA, the effects it would have on the safety of persons and property
on the ground, and the effects that existing or proposed manmade objects (on file with the FAA), and known
natural objects within the affected area would have on the airport proposal.
The FAA cannot prevent the construction of structures near an airport. The airport environs can only be
protected through such means as local zoning ordinances, acquisitions of property in fee title or aviation
casements, letters of agreement, or other means.
This determination does not preempt or waive any ordinance, law, or regulation of any other governmental body
or agency.
A general ordinance of the State of VA provides that certain airport constructions or alterations require a written
permit prior to construction. The permit may be obtained from the VA department of Transportation.
Enclosures:
Airport Master Record form, Tables A2 -1 thru A2 -3
Page 2 of 3
0
w
If lou have any questions concer this determination contact Sharon Pei (71$ )553 -3341,
sharon.perry@faa.gov.
SHARON PERRY
AIRPORT AIRSPACE ANALYSIS SPECIALIST
ENJOY FLYING
Sharon Perry
DivUser
when yoour airport is almost complete, pls fill out and return nto me the enc. 5010.
Page 3 of 3
�U
3900 k X84 TL> eHukI4
Tc>
.w,
oJi N
it .. O
*6;r'
ol
9V
r i
O �ra
ON��J i I
ATTACHMENT I
-
CS III
I1YyR /- R/� fl
�r
0
dge
IF do*
it I
4w
0 i.
-. 0
0
AW
%tee
4t
1110
Alt. «�� f
61 ol
ocp Ci,5,,
--I'- i
lk.
IA
r N
4F
•
AmA