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034-21 (2040ComprehensivePlanUpdate&AppendixI&II)Action: RESOLUTION PLANNING COMMISSION: October 20, 2021 Recommended Approval BOARD OF SUPERVISORS: November 10, 2021 Approved RESOLUTION TO ADOPT THE UPDATED COMPREHENSIVE PLAN INCLUDING APPENDIX I AND APPENDIX II 1 WHEREAS, the Comprehensive Plan for Frederick County is required by the Code of Virginia to be updated every five years; and WHEREAS, the 2040 Comprehensive Plans and Programs Committee (CPPC) discussed the updated Comprehensive Plan (including Appendix I and Appendix II), on August 9, 2021 and recommended it be sent to the Planning Commission for discussion; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission discussed the updated Comprehensive Plan (including Appendix I and Appendix II), on September 1, 2021 and recommended it be sent to the Board of Supervisors for discussion; and WHEREAS, the Board of Supervisors discussed the updated Comprehensive Plan (including Appendix I and Appendix II), on September 22, 2021; and sent the Plan forward for public hearing; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a public hearing on the updated Comprehensive Plan (including Appendix I and Appendix II), during their regular meeting on October 20, 2021 and recommended approval; and WHEREAS, the Board of Supervisors held a public hearing on the updated Comprehensive Plan (including Appendix I and Appendix II), during their regular meeting on November 10, 2021; and, WHEREAS, the Frederick County Board of Supervisors finds that the adoption of the updated Comprehensive Plan, (including Appendix I and Appendix II), to be in the best interest of the public health, safety, welfare, and future of Frederick County, and in good plaiuming practice; and Res # 034-21 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Frederick County Board of Supervisors that the updates to the COMPREHENSIVE PLAN (INCLUDING APPENDIX AND APPENDIX II), is adopted. The updated Comprehensive Plan (including Appendix I and Appendix II) shall be in effect on the date of adoption. Passed this 8th day of September 2021 by the following recorded vote: Charles S. DeHaven, Jr., Chairman Aye J. Douglas McCarthy Shawn L. Graber Blaine P. Dunn Res # 034-21 Aye Aye Aye David D. Stegmaier Robert W. Wells Judith McCann -Slaughter A COPY ATTEST Aye Aye Aye 4MaryT. Pri Me= Interim County Administrator COUNTY of FREDERICK Department of Planning and Development 540/ 665-5651 Fax: 540/ 665-6395 MEMORANDUM TO: Frederick County Board of Supervisors FROM: Candice Perkins, AICP, CZA, Assistant Director e- SUBJECT: Public Hearing - Update to the Frederick County Comprehensive Plan DATE: November 1, 2021 At the Board of Supervisors November 10, 2021 meeting, Staff will be presenting the draft update to the Frederick County Comprehensive Plan for public hearing. The current 2035 Comprehensive Plan was adopted in January of 2017. The Code of Virginia requires localities to review and update their plan every five years; therefore, an updated plan would need to be adopted by January of 2022. The Comprehensive Plan consists of three documents, The Plan, Appendix I and Appendix II. The Plan contains chapters that focus on aspects of the County's Vision for the Future. These chapters address: Urban Areas, Rural Areas, Residential Development, Business Development, Transportation, Public Facilities, Natural Resources, and Historic Resources. Appendix I contains the County's small area and joint land use plans. Appendix II provides background information such as statistics and projections. This is a proposed update to the plan and not a complete rewrite; while some areas have been expanded upon, it is not intended to fundamentally change the context or general information within the documents. Appendix I has been updated to reflect growth boundary changes, land use designation updates (such as past comprehensive plan amendments), transportation updates and infrastructure updates. Appendix II primarily contains background data and therefore these figures have been updated to reflect current data available. The Comprehensive Plans and Programs Committee (CPPC) discussed these updates at their March, April, June, July and August 2021 meetings. At their August meeting, the CPPC endorsed the draft Comprehensive Plan update and sent it forward to the Planning Commission for discussion. Specific sections of The Plan have also been reviewed by Frederick County Public Schools, Parks and Recreation, Fire and Rescue, the Airport Authority, the Economic Development Authority, Frederick Water and the Transportation Committee. The Planning Commission discussed this item at their meeting on September 1, 2021. During their discussion it was mentioned that the Board of Supervisors could consider updating the Western Jubal Early Land Use Plan to remove the Urban Development Area and Water Service Area due to the recent downzoning of this area. Ultimately the Planning Commission concurred with the Public Hearing: Update to the Frederick County Comprehensive Plan November 1, 2021 Page 2 update to the Plan and sent it forward to the Board for discussion. The Board of Supervisors discussed the update at their meeting on September 22, 2021 and sent it forward for public hearing. The Planning Commission held a public hearing for this item at their October 20, 2021 meeting and recommended approval. The updated Comprehensive Plan is presented to the Board of Supervisors as a public hearing item; staff is seeking a decision from the Board for the adoption of the updated Plan. Please contact staff if you have any questions or need additional information. The attached documents show the existing three components of the Comprehensive Plan with proposed additions shown in red and deletions in strikethrough. The Plan 2. Appendix I — Small Area Plans 3. Appendix II — Background Information THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR FREDERICK COUNTY Adopted by the Frederick County Board of Supervisors — TBD owl Frederick County, Virginia I Life at the Top x _ 6 Adopted by the Frederick County Board of Supervisors — TBD owl Frederick County, Virginia I Life at the Top FREDERICK COUNTY, VIRGINIA PURPOSE OF THE PLAN II CORE VALUES IV IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN V THE PLAN I. URBAN AREAS 1-9 II. RURAL AREAS 10-15 III. RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT 16-19 IV. BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT 20-35 L OFFICE AND INDUSTRIAL 11. RETAIL 111. TOURISM IV. AGRIBUSINESS V. TRANSPORTATION 36-46 VI. PUBLIC FACILITIES 47-69 VII. NATURAL RESOURCES 70-89 VIII. HISTORICAL RESOURCES 90-96 APPENDIX I - COMMUNITY AREA PLANS APPENDIX II - BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR FREDERICK COUNTY 1 INTRODUCTION NTRODUCT I ON • PURPOSE OF THE PLAN • CORE VALUES • THE CODE OF VIRGINIA - LEGAL BASIS FOR THE PLAN • IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN • COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENTS "THE 2wufl-z3-'-Z;v COMPREHENSIVE PLAN IS THE GUIDE FOR THE FUTURE GROWTH OF FREDERICK COUNTY. 11 THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN i INTRODUCTION PURPOSE OF THE PLAN The 293S Frederick County Comprehensive Plan (The Plan) addresses the future growth of Frederick County for its citizens, highlights its rich history, and strives to further this great community. The Plan is guided by the Vision Statement and Core Values crafted and adopted by the Frederick County Board of Supervisors. The Plan is a vital tool that provides direction for future growth, aimed at ensuring orderly well-planned development to promote, preserve and protect the health, safety, general welfare, and quality of life for the citizens and businesses of Frederick County. Comprehensive Plans are general in nature; their purpose is not to regulate, but rather to guide land use, transportation, public facilities, infrastructure, and resources decisions. The Comprehensive Plan is a living document that focuses on the next twenty years by providing guidance for development decisions. The Plan should be amended in response to new information or changes in circumstances, without straying from its underlying vision and goals. The 2935 Gernprehensive Plan is the quiielle for the future growth of Frederielt Geunty. 2030, 2035 COMPREHENSIVE PLANS & THE 2021 UPDATE :FI9e 2939 G6H9PFeI9ei9s1ve Plan was a sigigifieaf9t af9EI FevvaFEIi19q HigEleFtakil9q *19 2919 af9EI 2911 In 2010 the County began a complete rewrite of the Plan, which was completed and adopted 2011 (2030 Comprehensive Plan). This endeavor involved public outreach meetings and collaboration with citizen volunteers who assisted with drafting new chapters. This document provided a foundation for the 2035 Comprehensive Plan (update adopted in 2017) and this 2021 update. This updated Plan was guided by the Frederick County Planning Commission, through the efforts of the Comprehensive Plans and Programs Committee (CPPC) and the Frederick County Department of Planning and Development Staff. This Plan will continue to guide the County as it seeks to implement the County's vision as expressed by the Board of Supervisors. THE 293S COMPREHENSIVE PLAN INTRODUCTION THE 293r3 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN INTRODUCTION CORE VALUES The Frederick County Board of Supervisors provided the framework for the 2936 Comprehensive Plan. The Plan's future focus, goals, and strategies were crafted to reflect the Vision Statement and Core Values of the Board of Supervisors, approved on December 9, 2009. Board of Supervisors Vision Statement: "Ensuring the quality of life of all Frederick County Citizens by preserving the past and planning for the future through sound fiscal management. " Board of Supervisors Core Values: • A government that is accountable and dedicated to providing responsible stewardship for County funds and to ensure the citizens receive the best services possible for the funds expended. • A government concerned with long range planning that protects our rural heritage and directs its future growth through planned infrastructure. • A government concerned with expanding commercial and industrial tax base in order to insure a viable and thriving economy. • A government that looks to the future and implements plans to ensure that the quality of life for future generations is preserved. • A government that emphasizes a quality education through a cooperative effort with the School Board. • A government that recognizes the importance of maintaining a highly trained public safety program to provide efficient services and protection to County citizens. • A government that promotes the spirit of cooperation with its regional local government partners and, in particular, the City of Winchester. • A government unit based on honesty, trust, integrity, and respect that understands the importance of clear communication and a willingness to listen. THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN iv INTRODUCTION THE CODE OF V I RG I N I A - LEGAL BAS I S FOR THE PLAN The Code of Virginia (Section 15.2-2223) requires localities to adopt a comprehensive plan for the physical development of jurisdictions. The code requires that consideration be given to existing conditions and growth trends. The purpose of a plan is to guide and accomplish a coordinated development of the jurisdiction to promote the health, safety, prosperity, and general welfare of the community. The plan should be used to protect and enhance the high quality of life our citizens enjoy today, and the probable needs of future county citizens, in order to maintain that quality of life in the foreseeable future. A comprehensive plan provides a blueprint for the future by laying out a framework for growth and development. It establishes goals, objectives, policies and implementation techniques that will provide the tools to help the decision makers guide the County's future development. The plan coordinates transportation, utilities, schools and other public infrastructure needs with anticipated growth and development. As required by the Code, the plan must be reviewed at least every five years and may be amended as necessary. IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN The Plan contains chapters that focus on particular aspects of the County's Vision for the Future. The chapters of The Plan address: Urban Areas, Rural Areas, Residential Development, Business Development, Transportation, Public Facilities, Natural Resources, and Historic Resources. The chapters of The Plan are simple, each describes where we are today and where to be ;ig ' we see ourselves in the future. The Chapters Oiey provide goals and strategies of implementation, and they illustrate the benefits of the implementation of this focus for the future. Each of the chapters that make up the Plan have been structured to provide goals for where we desire the Community to beO,-Nand strategies that provide guidance on how to get there. The ultimate goal is to make the Plan implementable, and by extension, achieve the Community's vision for the future of Frederick County. The Plan is supported by two Appendices: THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN v INTRODUCTION Appendix I includes the County's Area Plans, these area plans are the key land use planning documents which implement the policies of the GenqpFehen Plan in specific, geographic areas of the County. The Area Plans, are will he instrumental in future planning efforts of the County. Developed over the past couple of decades, the individual Area Plans have helped to guide the growth and development of areas of the County experiencing growth pressures. In the future, the Area Plans will be used as a guide in making land use decisions that meet anticipated growth demands, assure a viable community, and maintain a high quality of life for its citizens. Appendix I I provides background analysis and studies in support of The Plan. SUPPORTING PLANNING DOCUMENTS In addition to the comprehensive plan, other tools utilized to manage the County's growth and development include, but are not limited to the Official Zoning Map, the Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances, Rezonings, Subdivision and Site Plan Regulations, and the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) . Frederick County will utilize all available planning tools. To ensure that as new areas of urban uses are established, roads and public facilities of sufficient capacity are provided to serve the new HF13aig areas. Rezoning requests should be evaluated to determine their potential impacts on transportation and public facilities. Applicants will be expected to contribute a reasonable portion of the costs of new or expanded infrastructure needed to serve their proposed development. Costs to the County should be estimated in terms of what impact the development, which could result from the proposed rezoning, would have on public facilities and infrastructure. Such contributions can be in the form of cash, dedicated land, or constructed improvements or in any other manner consistent with the Code of Virginia. Rezoning requests should not be approved unless the net impacts on public facilities are positive, or unless the negative impacts can be adequately mitigated through proffered contributions or other acceptable means. A request for rezoning may also be turned down even though all fiscal impacts appear to be addressed. The Plan is also a key resource for developing the County's Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The CIP is a capital facilitates planning document which consists of a schedule of major capital expenditures for the County for the ensuing five years. The CIP is updated each year as projects are completed, priorities change, or new projects are added. The CIP is based on the guidelines outlined by the Comprehensive Plan and uses those guidelines to implement a balanced approach for the planning and development of capital projects. Adopted annually, the Capital Improvements Plan becomes a component #af4 of the Comprehensive Plan. THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN vi INTRODUCTION In addition, the transportation elements of the 293S Comprehensive Plan have been reviewed by the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) in accordance with 15.2-2222.1 . COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT PROCESS The Code of Virginia, Section 15.2-2229, states that the Board of Supervisors may consider amendments to its Comprehensive Plan. If an application is determined to be inconsistent with the Comprehensive Plan, an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan may be considered. The application will be reviewed by the Planning Commission for consistency with the elements contained within the Plan. With requests to amend the Plan, applicants should demonstrate any change in land use designation, density, or intensity: • Would benefit the public health, safety, and welfare. • Is consistent with the Goals, Objectives, and Policies of the Comprehensive Plan. • Will not be detrimental to uses of property in the immediate vicinity of the subject property. • Has merit and value for the community as a whole. • Will result in benefits (fiscal, aesthetic, employment, etc.) that will outweigh any significant impact of the change. THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN vii ter-r4tery whieh wilb in ac-c-ef:danc-e with present and pf:e19a191e future needs and reseur-ees� Igest pr -heal safe n halq-itantr 6-, , er-; Eenyeni.ene , ,~..,,,-p,,r46, and general w . fa - e f t -e In addition, the transportation elements of the 293S Comprehensive Plan have been reviewed by the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) in accordance with 15.2-2222.1 . COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT PROCESS The Code of Virginia, Section 15.2-2229, states that the Board of Supervisors may consider amendments to its Comprehensive Plan. If an application is determined to be inconsistent with the Comprehensive Plan, an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan may be considered. The application will be reviewed by the Planning Commission for consistency with the elements contained within the Plan. With requests to amend the Plan, applicants should demonstrate any change in land use designation, density, or intensity: • Would benefit the public health, safety, and welfare. • Is consistent with the Goals, Objectives, and Policies of the Comprehensive Plan. • Will not be detrimental to uses of property in the immediate vicinity of the subject property. • Has merit and value for the community as a whole. • Will result in benefits (fiscal, aesthetic, employment, etc.) that will outweigh any significant impact of the change. THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN vii URBAN AREAS . URBAN AREAS THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR FREDERICK COUNTY Frederick County's Urban & Rural Areas Copyright:0 2013 National Geographic Society, i -cubed Frederick County ,` Town and City Boundary N ,6...• Urban Development Area ° :, Future Rt 37 BasspassE NN' + a Sewer and Water Service Area #,tee Rural Community Center s 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map 0 0.5 1 2 3 Miles Draft , I I i URBAN AREAS URBAN AREAS CURRENT CONDITIONS The Urban Development Area (UDA) of Frederick County includes those areas anticipated for higher intensity development which are located within the limits of the Sewer and Water Service Area (SWSA). The SWSA designates the limit of where public sewer and water could be extended. Frederick County established its initial UDA boundary in 1987. This Plan recognizes the need to direct new residential, commercial, and industrial growth into the Urban Areas and discourage growth in the Rural Areas; the UDA and SWSA provide a clear boundary between these two areas l3etweeig the HFbaig "Fear aigEl theRHFal AFeas. Using the UDA and SWSA as urban growth boundaries, Frederick County seeks to focus growth in strategic areas where community facilities and public services are more readily available. It is expected that development within the UDA and SWSA will be served by public water and sewer. The UDA defines the general area in which more intensive forms of residential development will occur. Commercial, industrial, and institutional land uses are also identified within the UDA in designated areas. While the boundaries of the UDA and the SWSA are consistent in many locations, the SWSA does extend beyond the limits of the UDA to promote commercial, industrial, and institutional land uses in areas where residential land uses are not desirable. Future planned land uses are depicted in the various Area Plans which are compiled in Appendix 1. These Area Plans contain both guiding text and future land use maps that provide a detailed land use guide for the designated area. The plans have been created over time, through a community planning process, and are incorporated as part of the Comprehensive Plan. The individual Area Plans make up the Eastern Frederick County Long Range Land Use Plan. Suburban development within the Urban Areas continues to be the predominant land use pattern for residential use, with an average residential density between two to four units per acre. More recently, the densities e€ for new residential development have been increasing. While the County will continue to see suburban -style growth, residential densities higher than those previously experienced in the UDA would be appropriate within specifically designated areas witl9mig `1ge H9A, '.newig identified as neighborhood villages and urban centers (further described on page 3). The boundary of Frederick County's UDA should be examined regularly to ensure that it is adequately sized to accommodate current and projected €rhe growth. Policies should also be regularly reviewed to ensure that the UDA encourages a mixture of housing types. aed heH5ing types. It should be recognized that the size of the urban areas (both UDA and SWSA) THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR FREDERICK COUNTY 3 URBAN AREAS will also be affected by the ability to provide water and sewer service to accommodate future development. Historically, Frederick County has sought to achieve a balanced ratio between commercial, industrial and residential growth in terms of both available areas of land use and taxable value of the land uses. Residential development, although necessary to accommodate population growth, on average does not pay for itself. To offset this and mitigate any increased tax burdens on current residents, a fiscally balanced amount of commercial and residential development is achieved through land use planning. The target ratio for the urban area shall be 25 percent commercial and industrial land uses and within the urban areas to 75 percent residential and other land uses throughout the County as a whole. The PHFpese 6f t1905 taF" Fat 6 VV To encourage future development of commercial and industrial uses to he4ff-achieve the targeted ratio, Frederick County has designated certain areas selely feF that are predominately planned for future commercial and industrial tie uses. These include such areas as the Route 11 North corridor, Kernstown area, Round Hill, the 277 Triangle Area, and in the vicinity of the Winchester Regional Airport. FOCUS FOR THE FUTURE The urban areas will continue to be designated for more compact and intense development patterns. The location of new and expanded public facilities, services and utilities will be focused in these areas. Improvements to the utility system, road networks, and public facilities may be required to support land development in these areas. New residential suburban development should be designed with high-quality residential standards and mitigate potential impacts. Opportunities for providing pedestrian and biking connections to existing neighborhoods should be encouraged where appropriate. Section I I I of this Plan provides additional policies and guidance for future residential development. The strategic growth areas, identified as neighborhood villages and urban centers shall promote higher urban densities, mixed uses, and a more compact form of development. Neighborhood Villages Neighborhood villages are envisioned to be compact centers that focus and complement the surrounding neighborhoods, are walkable, designed at a human scale, and supported by existing planned road networks. Urban Centers Urban centers are larger than the Neighborhood Village and are envisioned to be a more intensive, walkable urban area with a larger commercial core, higher densities, and designed around some form of public space or focal point. Urban THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR FREDERICK COUNTY 4 URBAN AREAS centers should be located in close proximity to major transportation routes and intersections. Development of these strategic growth areas would aid in attracting new skilled, creative, and entrepreneurial workers to the County. To attract new workers, the County needs to facilitate the creation of desirable, well-planned places in which they will want to reside. A variety of community choices, settings and prices needs to be fostered to accommodate a wide range of resident preferences. By fostering high quality communities centered around attractive social gathering spaces in mixed use environments, the County can attract new worker residents along with their employers. These areas should also provide for land uses that are connected by an attractive, efficient, transportation system designed for all users. For any new use proposed within the urban areas, adequate roads, infrastructure, and public facilities with sufficient capacities to accommodate the new uses should be provided. Development proposals such as rezonings, are expected to identify and appropriately mitigate their impacts to ensure that they are not placing an undue burden on the community. Proposed uses should also seek to further implement the goals identified in this Plan. COMMUNITY BENEFITS There are numerous benefits to the community when focusing new growth in the urban areas. THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR FREDERICK COUNTY 5 URBAN AREAS When residential growth occurs outside of the designated growth boundaries, such as eRd +rfrte the rural areas, the County Igas to must extend public services such as schools and emergency services further distances. These expanded service areas increase the costs of operation while decreasing efficiency effeeti mess Focused growth areas also reduce lingo development pressures within the rural areas, thus theFeby helping to preserve tl=�e e9+ and agricultural land and open spaces. PFEffigete affibH50igess a19EI t6HFOSH9. Neighborhood Villages and Urban Centers Incorporating planned neighborhood villages and urban centers, which are designated for higher densities and utilize Neighborhood Design principles :n1eIg as t1gese identified :ig `1gis eer,will help to improve the sense of community and promote close knit, walkable areas where residents have greater opportunities to live, work, and play :ig `1ge safe Commercial and Industrial Dedicated areas for commercial and industrial development helps to ensure a strong tax base to provide public services and community facilities and ftl�e provide for retail opportunities for the benefit of local residents. GOALS/STRATEGIES GOAL 1: AS FREDERICK COUNTY CONTINUES TO GROW, IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT THE VISION OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR THE URBAN AREAS BE IMPLEMENTED IN ORDER TO ACCOMMODATE GROWTH IN A VIABLE MANNER. GROWTH SHOULD PRIMARILY BE FOCUSED WITHIN THE URBAN AREAS. STRATEGIES: • Focus new . growth in the Urban Development Area (UDA) and Sewer and Water Service Area (SWSA). • Monitor the size of UDA and the Sewer and Water Service Area (SWSA) to ensure appropriate land area is tie available to accommodate future residential growth es weN-as and commercial and industrial opportunities. • Ensure adequate water and sewer service capacity is available to accommodate new Fesidential aigEl , i:.9,I..5tFi. i growth. • Provide for various densities within the urban areas to encourage concentrated growth. Support a range of housing options in suburban areas, neighborhood villages and urban centers. GOAL 2: PROMOTE THE NEIGHBORHOOD DESIGN PRINCIPLES AS IDENTIFIED IN THIS CHAPTER AREAS.WITI 0IN TO NE URBAN FOR NEIGHBORHOOD VILLAGES AND URBAN CENTERS. STRATEGIES: THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR FREDERICK COUNTY 6 URBAN AREAS • Ensure land use applications incorporate the principles of Neighborhood Design identified in this chapter vvheFe appFepFiate. for neighborhood villages and urban centers. • Further develop the neighborhood village and urban center concepts which promote strategic growth areas within the urban areas. • Promote the location of community facilities as focal points within identified stffitegie neighborhood villages and urban centers. • Support high quality and innovative community designs within neighborhood villages and urban centers. GOAL 3: PROVIDE FOR TRANSPORTATION OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL USERS WITHIN THE URBAN AREAS. STRATEGIES: • Ensure the bicycle plan included as part of the Comprehensive Plan provides for trail facilities in the desired locations. • Encourage new developments to provide interconnected trail networks and on street shared travel ways. • Connect "missing links" across existing developments to the extent possible. GOAL 4: OBTAIN 25/75 RATIO OF COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL USES TO RESIDENTIAL AND OTHER LAND USES WITHIN THE URBAN AREAS OF THE COUNTY. STRATEGIES: • Ensure adequate services, including water and sewer infrastructure, are available to obtain target business users in a competitive market. • Continue to work with Frederick Water to monitor the location of the SWSA and determine areas that could be modified to attract targeted users and continue to implement the Long -Range Land Use Plan. • Continue to evaluate the availability of land for +4a+ will speeifieally aeeengffi6date ElesiFe d Hi9t of commercial and industrial land uses and incorporate sufficient acreage into Area Plans. • Seek to attract uses that will generate the desired tax revenue and employment opportunities for the County. THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR FREDERICK COUNTY 7 Long Range Land Use Plan Future Rt 37 Bypass Urban Development Area Jewer and Water Service Area Airport Support Area andfill Support Area Business ® Mixed -Use 0 Mixed Use Commercial \ Office Highway Commercial ®B2/B3 40 Industrial ® Mixed Use Industrial \ Office ® Warehouse ®Heavy Industrial Extractive Mining Employment Q Residential 40 Mobile Home Community 40 Planned Unit Development •-,[ Urban Center ,!A Neighborhood Village 0 Residential, 4 u/a OHigh-Density Residential, 6 u/a ® High -Density Residential, 12-16 u/a (Z> Rural Area Commercial Recreation Q Recreation ® Natural Resources & Recreation //, Park ®Environmentally Sensitive Areas ®Interstate Buffer ® Sensitive Natural Areas f."4 Institutional Fire & Rescue Rural Community Center G (GY 0 0.5 1 Z Miles N - 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map Cc Draft ,Rid Potential Neighborhood Village ♦ Urban Center • .• ° 41 C - t �•' �.�� bake �� t __ _ h G r:.at i r I I f ' e � %�':,►.. / ��(.t��[ l it �,. J. • I I � Burn I • ''. ♦ etAay t '' • e City of • - -_ / A I" •� 1 Winchester ,/• ter; I + Opequon It Berton : Town of • 5L' J /-`� Boycef f Stephens City CAV/ -r Ice • j� i r + • n1 C 6..". ° � ,tea i -. `•"••+w lratPrr 1Nhire dy E■ � y .Post � � IU sit �fV p y c . �E I, •• - n �11 opyright:© 2013 National Geographic Society, i -cubed Urban Development Area ®Sewer and Water Service Area 'y`e.� Future Rt 37 Bypass 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map Draft •Potential Potential N Neighborhood Villages Urban Centers W E (with Ped Sheds (.25 & .5 miles)) (with Ped Sheds (.25 &.5 miles)) S, 0 0.5 1 2 Miles i I i RURAL AREAS 1 1 . RURAL AREAS THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 10 RURAL AREAS RURAL AREAS CURRENT CONDITIONS Frederick County's rural areas provide places for agriculture, forestry, protection and preservation of natural resources, and tourism. The rural areas best exhibit the nature, beauty, view sheds, and tranquility for which Frederick County is known. The primary land uses in the rural areas are agricultural and forestal operations. 'a19E' aFea 05 FHFal 019 ehaFaeteF Of the County's 266,000 acres, approximately 243,000 acres are rural and located primarily west of Interstate 81. The remaining acreage comprises the Urban Development Area (UDA) Sewer and Water Service Area (SWSA) where the n9ajeFity residential, commercial, and industrial development is focused. Agriculture In 2017, the Federal Census of Agriculture identified 762 farms in Frederick County, with a total of 109,907 acres or approximately 41 percent of the land in the County. From 2012 to 2017, the total acreage in Frederick County farms grew by over 9,000 acres. This 9% growth in overall acreage may represent a real increase or it may be an effect of more persons reporting on their farm acreage. Forestry is another important component of the County's agricultural economy. Managed well and logged in a sustainable manner, they provide a renewable source of income to landowners, taxes to the County, and timber products for many other users. Trees and forests provide many natural resource benefits prior to and after harvesting. The Agriculture Census showed the total percentage of land in farms comprised of woodland use as of 2017 to be 25 percent. Residential Development The rural areas of the County have traditionally seen about 30% of the County's new residential growth. With the exception of the County's Rural Community Centers, €e� the predominant new residential development pattern has been five (5) acre lots or two (2) acre clustered lots with dedicated preservation tracts (discussed further below). It should also be noted that the band of prime agricultural soil which runs north -southwest of Interstate 81 is the same area where a majority of new rural residential growth has been experienced. The handling of wastewater is a key differentiating feature for development in the rural areas. Residential uses in the rural areas are served by individual onsite sewage disposal systems and wells. The County encourages residential development in the urban areas where services and utilities are available and where such development will not conflict with agricultural and forestal uses, conservation efforts for natural resources and other objectives for the rural area. It is the County's policy that public infrastructure will be centralized in the urban areas. Minimizing the extension of public water and sewer infrastructure helps avoid more intense development within the rural areas. Within the rural areas of the County there are several established village -type developments called Rural Community Centers. There are currently twelve identified Rural Community Centers. These are: THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 11 RURAL AREAS GORE REYNOLDS STORE GAINESBORO ROUND HILL ARMEL SHAWNEELAND/NORTH MOUNTAIN STAR TANNERY WH I TACRE/CROSS JUNCTION ALBI N CLEARBROOK/BRUCETOWN STEPHENSON WHITEHALL These centers consist of small lot residences and commercial uses typical of a village. ire GeffiffiH~lIn aElEfitien,Four of the existing centers have been identified as potential receiving area. for the Transfer of Development Rights Program. T"DIRS. There are currently no public water and sewer services available Htility seFVi in these communities and therefore, the use of private utility systems would need to be investigated to facilitate future growth in these communities. Of the Rural Communities, Round Hill, has a small area plan Eleveleped which incorporates the community village area and commercial uses adjacent to U.S. 50, west of its interchange with the Route 37 By -Pass (see Appendix 11 — Area Plans). Land Conservation Tools and Trends Private property owners and farmers are truly the key land stewards in the County. These landowners have actively participated in voluntary preservation and land management programs through State, County, and non-profit organizations over the years. Approximately 22,800 acres of the County's land is currently in some form of conservation easement or land protection program. Also, the George Washington National Forest comprises over 8,000 acres in Frederick County. Overall, approximately 30,800 acres or 12 percent of the County's area is protected in some fashion. Some of the management tools and incentives for the preservation of agricultural opportunities, and environmental resources are zoning and subdivision regulations, land use taxation, permanent conservation easements, purchase of development rights, transfer of development rights and Agricultural and Forestal Districts, each of which is discussed below. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 12 RURAL AREAS Zoning and Subdivision Regulations The Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance regulates the form of residential development seen in the rural areas today. The regulations are designed to assist in the protection and preservation of the agricultural uses and to mitigate land use conflicts between agricultural uses and appropriately limited residential development. The Zoning Ordinance takes two different approaches for subdividing land for rural development: traditional five acre lots or rural preservation (cluster) subdivisions. Both options have residential density of one house per five acres, but the preservation option allow lots as small as two acres while the remainder is conserved in a larger tract that could be utilized for agricultural purposes. Use Value Assessment and Taxation Program The Use Value Assessment and Taxation Program uses discounts in property tax assessments to promote and preserve agricultural, forestal, horticultural and open space lands. Use Value Assessment (also commonly known as "land use" or "land use assessment") is a state -guided program that allows localities to tax farmland and open space land at its "use" value rather than its fair market value. This program typically reduces the real estate tax on the land by a significant amount, thus making it easier to continue a farming business. The program is voluntary to the landowner and requires only five acres to qualify under open space classification or 20 acres under the forest use classification. Rollback taxes must be paid when the property is removed from the program. Conservation Easements and Purchase of Development Rights A conservation easement is a legal agreement between a landowner and a government and a land trust or government agency that limits the use of the land by recording deed restrictions that prohibit or severely restrict further development to protect the conservation value of the property, such as farmland, watersheds, wildlife habitat, forests and/or historical lands. Each easement is unique in terms of acreage, description, use restrictions and duration. These details are negotiated between the property owner granting the easement, and the organization that will be holding the easement. Conservation easements are typically established in perpetuity but may be established for shorter periods. The easement allows a property owner to continue to own any underlying interest in the land that is not specifically limited by the easement, to use the land within the terms and restrictions of the easement, and to sell the land or pass it on to heirs (with the easement restrictions conveying with the land). Conservation easements do not permit public access unless specifically provided. Conservation easements may be established through purchase, lease (short term), or through donation. In these easement programs, the easement is established through the voluntary cooperation or initiative of the landowner. When conservation easements are purchased as part of a broad government program, it is typically called "Purchase of Development Rights" or PDR. Purchasing "development rights" is the same as purchasing conservation easements or that portion of the "bundle of rights" that allows landowners to construct dwellings or non-farm commercial structures on the property. Thus, when a locality purchases a conservation easement from a landowner, it essentially "buys" the right to develop the land and "retires" that right by placing a permanent conservation easement on the property that restricts or THE 2036 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 13 RURAL AREAS prohibits further non-farm development. Typically, these easement restrictions run in perpetuity. Transfer of Development Rights In 2010, Frederick County adopted a Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) program which allows for dwelling unit rights to be transferred from qualified parcels located in the rural areas to designated properties within the Urban Development Areas. This pe4ey tool provides landowners within the rural areas the ability to obtain development value from their land of +i- eiF Faffi9lal9d without having to subdivide and sell the land. The density rights from the land can be severed and utilized within the Urban Development Area where community facilities and public services can be provided more efficiently. Agricultural and Forestal Districts Frederick County currently has eight districts covering approximately 12,300 acres. Agricultural and Forestal Districts are voluntary rural protection zones that were established by the Commonwealth (Virginia Code § 15.2-4301), to conserve land for the production of agricultural products, timber, and the maintenance of open space as an important economic and environmental resource. By establishing a district and agreeing to continue using the property for qualifying agricultural uses, the locality and State in return agree to protect and enhance the land and not take any actions that would have a negative effect on agriculture or forestry during the term of the District. n,, i n FOCUS FOR THE FUTURE Agriculture, forestry and conservation play an important role in the environment, heritage and economy of Frederick County. While the County's agriculture industry is likely to evolve into operations of a very different scale and intensity than currently seen, the County should continue to support and e19e6HFage these epeffiti6195. encourage new land uses in the rural areas, including supportive uses for agriculture. Policies and ordinance changes should be considered to promote the County's preferred uses for the rural areas, including supportive uses for agriculture, historic preservation, tourism, and strengthening land conservation initiatives. The Agribusiness section of the Business Development Chapter further promotes the evolution of agriculture in the County's rural areas. The Rural Community Centers are focal points for the rural areas and should be examined to accommodate future residential growth. Small area plans for these communities should be studied and created, and approaches for water and sewer needs should be investigated. The natural landscape should be used as the background of development with a greater emphasis placed on conservation design for growth within the rural areas. The inclusion of THE -293r3 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 14 RURAL AREAS new recreational opportunities and the growth of existing ones within the rural areas are also encouraged. COMMUNITY BENEFITS The rural areas of the County provide benefits to the community in many ways. These areas not only contribute to the identity of Frederick County, they also provide jobs, recreation, and a way of life. Preserving and protecting the rural areas of Frederick County is important not only to ensure the economic viability of agricultural and forestal operations but to also guarantee that those lands are present for the use and enjoyment of future generations. GOALS/STRATEGIES GOAL 1: DIRECT NEW RESIDENTIAL GROWTH AWAY FROM THE RURAL AREAS, AND CLUSTER RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT THAT DOES OCCUR TO URT"r" "r' P PRESERVE AGRULTURAL LAND. STRATEGIES: • New residential development should continue to be directed into the urban areas. • Preserve the desired physical characteristics of the rural areas. Avoid prime soils, minimize land disturbance and grading, and minimize drainage changes. • Maintain transition areas between FaEli6ally different uses, most importantly, between the rural and urban areas. • Avoid, as applicable, Sensitive Natural Areas, Historic Districts, TDR sending areas, Agricultural and Forestal Districts. • Continue helping property owners find ways to keep properties intact rather than subdividing. GOAL 2: SUPPORT THE GROWTH OF THE COUNTY'S RURAL COMMUNITIES. STRATEGIES: • Further define the boundaries for each Rural Community Center and small area land use plans for each center. These centers should remain the focal point of the rural community and their character and scale should be preserved. • Plan for improved services within the neighborhood centers (wastewater treatment, package treatment, fire and rescue, and satellite County offices, library). • Encourage appropriate mixes of residential, commercial and business uses within the Rural Community Centers. GOAL 3: SUPPORT VOLUNTARY LAND PRESERVATION TOOLS AND THE LAND USE TAX DEFERRAL PROGRAM THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 15 RURAL AREAS STRATEGIES: • Support the Conservation Easement Authority (CEA) and the Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) program. • Support the Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) Program, the Land Use Tax Deferral Program, and encourage growth of the County's Agricultural and Forestal Districts. and • Promote the use of conservation easements and support the Conservation Easement Authority through the County's Purchase of Development Rights Program. • Participate in state grant programs to the greatest extent possible. • Follow changes to state code that would enable new land preservation tools. • Continue to support the work of conservation organizations in establishing and holding conservation easements and extinguishing residential development potential. GOAL 4: SUPPORT AGRICULTURAL OPERATIONS AND RURAL RECREATION STRATEGIES: • Support the agricultural economy in Frederick County and adapt to evolving practices and new agricultural opportunities such as value added activities and uses on farms that are a logical extension of the agricultural use. • Encourage conservation options that retain continuous land areas for agricultural uses; focus should be placed on areas with prime agricultural soils. • Identify and support local, regional, and national rural recreation opportunities within the County's rural areas. THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 16 4W Prime Agricultural Soils Agricultural & Forestal Districts Apple Pie Ridge Albin South Tlmber Rldge Agricultural & Forestal ere=� South Frederick Reynolds Back Mountain store Reliance 522 410 Double Church 4W Red Bud 127 4W Green Spring Cross Junction I 52 � 1 Go e �J4 +' QV— �oCleaf. B s / 1 / 52 259 i 50 r � � tephens n A uni � F �� ourid� u hawneeland '� � � eti'' Winchester �. r 7 / 50 r } 50 52 t 55_ ar Tannery Y }� r Stephens City 277 522 Middletown fr 0 0.5 1 2 3 4 5 6 J �e I I Miles p6 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft - Sending Area #1 Designated Agricultural Districts Density Transfer 1 TDR Density Right = 2 Dwelling Units in the Receiving Area Sending Area #2 Limestone/Carbonate Bedrock Areas Density Transfer 1 TDR Density Right = 1.5 Dwelling Units in the Receiving Area ® Sending Area #3 Shale/Sandstone Area Density Transfer 1 TDR Density Right = 1 Dwelling Units in the Receiving Area <_ 27 Receiving Areas Urban Development Area Per §165-302.02 Rural Community Centers CDAreas Not Qualified for the TDR Program r 0 0.5 1 2 3 4 5 6 I I I I I I I miles Transfer of ,,Development Rights 23 Sending Areas & Receiving Areas Urban Development Area Middletown - - ,"_ A Urban Development Area y .e oe 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT 11. RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 19 RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT CURRENT CONDITIONS Over the past two decades, the .,.-.. e ...+ of residential development in Frederick County has continued to increase ;,;erred at a relatively consistent rate According to'Ane 2910—eigsHs and H96Fe Fee studies performed by the Economic Development Authority (EDA), Frederick County remains primarily an in -commute location. F This Plan also acknowledges Frederick County is also home to a large population of residents that commute out of the County for employment. One of the contributors to the County's The R9ai19ffit-;b,,t6F to the population growth was the migration of people from inside of the Washington Metropolitan Statistical Area (WMSA) to Frederick County for a higher quality of life including lower housing costs and a lower tax rate. Frederick County, because of its location and excellent access to Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, has become a desirable place to live for those commuters. Frederick County has also become an attractive place to live for retirees. Frederick County's housing stock includes a variety of homes in both suburban and rural settings. In recent years Frederick County has seen approximately two thirds of its new residential growth constructed in the Urban Development Area (UDA) and one third in the rural areas, including the Residential Recreational Communities (such as Lake Holiday, Lake Frederick, and Shawneeland). The rural areas are home to the agricultural, forestal and open spaces of the County. Within the rural areas, the predominant types of residential units are single family dwellings with a density of one house per five acres. In addition to the traditional five acres lots seen in the past, dwellings at the same density can be clustered using a two -acre lot size with the remainder being preserved through a 60% preservation tract. GIEIeF The County also has a number of historic Rural Community Centers where residential uses are clustered. 1,"�e These rural community centers typically have smaller lot sizes, higher densities, and some commercial uses. Residential developments located in the Rural Areas, including Rural Community Centers are typically on private individual water and sewer systems. The Urban Development Area (UDA) is the portion of the County which has been identified as the area where more intensive forms of residential development will occur el9d to accommodate the anticipated residential growth within the Community. While the UDA currently consists of primarily suburban residential types of development, with some multifamily and FetiFengent units, particular areas have been identified to it 05 planneEi �6 accommodate a more intensive mix of land uses and residential housing opportunities. The UDA is designed to accommodate increased residential densities because it is adjacent to or in t -lie near proximity to t-l=�e necessary infrastructure and public facilities. These facilities THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 20 RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT include public water and sewer, schools, emergency services, and a transportation network more capable of handling the increased trips from higher density residential uses. To further encourage residential development in the Urban rather than Rural Areas, the County adopted a Transfer of Development Rights Program (TDR) in the spring of 2010. More information on the County's TDR Program can be found in the Rural Areas chapter of this Plan. FOCUS FOR THE FUTURE l""HtHFe Residential growth in Frederick County is anticipated to continue increasing ai=�d expaigEl. The County must ensure that land use policies are established to adequately direct and shape that growth. While new residential growth is expected in both the Rural and the Urban Areas, new residential growth should be focused primarily within the Urban Development Area (UDA) which is better suited to meet the needs of these new residences. The County should continue to establish policies which result in attractive and welcoming residential neighborhoods which are able to accommodate a growing population. raftd The County should strive to offer a variety of neighborhood and housing choices to attract younger populations that would help support a diverse and skilled workforce for the County. It is also important that housing opportunities be available to all household types and income categories. The land use policies of the Urban Areas will further guide this residential development and community growth. COMMUNITY BENEFITS Proactive planning efforts are essential in both the Urban and Rural Areas to ensure that the County is able to deal with its future residential growth in a cost-effective and attractive manner. Proper planning and land use policies enable the County to identify where future residential growth should be accommodated. It enables the County to plan for and provide infrastructure and services in defined areas where they can reach the majority of the population. By directing growth and services to the urban areas, the County can develop community facilities that become focal points to the residential areas. GOALS/STRATEGIES GOAL1: NEW RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT SHOULD BE FOCUSED WITHIN THE URBAN DEVELOPMENT AREA (UDA). STRATEGIES: • Guide new residential development to areas that are served by public utilities, access to transportation networks able to serve higher intensities, employment areas, schools, recreation facilities and shopping facilities. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 21 RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT • The Urban Development Area should allow for housing that will meet the needs of first-time buyers, retiree's, move -up residences, and seniors. Higher density residential development is encouraged in close proximity to or mixed with commercial areas to enhance walkable access to employment, shopping, and entertainment. The County's strategic growth areas, the Urban Centers and Neighborhood Villages, are the most desirable locations for this type of development. • Continue to monitor the supply of land designated and zoned for residential use in the Urban Areas to ensure adequate capacity for future population growth. GOAL 2: NATURAL SYSTEMS ^Pd B, -OPEN SPACES AND FOCAL POINTS SHOULD BE INCORPORATED INTO NEW RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT. STRATEGIES: • When new development occurs in the rural areas, the rural preservation option should be encouraged as the preferred subdivision form and design to preserve natural and environmental features New residential neighborhoods will should incorporate focal points, landscaping, recreational amenities, open space amenities (active, passive, and natural), located in close proximity to all dwellings, with an emphasis on the provision of usable open space feF Fe5ident H5e and enjeyngent. that facilitate community interaction and promote a quality neighborhood development. GOAL S: ENCOURAGE NEW AND INNOVATIVE HOUSING CHOICES WHICH MEET THE NEEDS OF VARIOUS AGES AND INCOMES. STRATEGIES: • Residential housing types and design guidelines should be flexible to accommodate evolving demographic trends, and to ensure that housing choices are maximized. • Ensure that adequate housing options are available to the development community through the Zoning Ordinance. Investigate additional opportunities such as new or expanded manufactured housing developments and accessory units to help expand the housing supply and help meet the County's affordable housing needs. • Rural Community Centers should be enhanced as viable and desirable places to live, as they can serve an important role as a location with lower development costs, thus reducing the housing costs. Opportunities to provide water and sewer services, public or private, should be investigated. • When water and sewer (public or private) becomes available, promote the completion of land use plans for the Rural Community Centers and provide incentives to increase the viability of these neighborhoods. THE -2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 22 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT IV. BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 23 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT INTRODUCTION The GengpFehe,sive Plan BHsiness Develepn9^^} chapter focuses on four areas that are all integral to the economy of Frederick County. These areas are: • OFFICE AND INDUSTRIAL • RETAIL • TOURISM • AGRIBUSINESS Frederick County currently has a consistent and competitive real estate tax rate in comparison to neighboring communities. Supported by a proactive Economic Development Authority (EDA), the area's workforce has a high work ethic and a low turnover rate. Ffe4e4ek—The County's attractiveness as a residential community will continue to expand our population and our opportunities for business growth. Each new residence within the ` inehester FFed.._".', only generates approximately 50% of the taxes needed to offset the service burden created by the residence; the goal of planning for new business development is to attract businesses that will balance the tax base and jobs. The opportunity for local residents to have an expanded employment base affords not only an enhanced quality of life and increased income, but also results in increased local spending and therefore increased sales tax collections. CURRENT CONDITIONS Highway aeeessibility, pFe)(ingity te n9ajeF n9aFl(ets, an ingpFessive skilled talent peel Our strategic geographic location, diverse business community, skilled workforce, recognized economic performance, and commitment to business aFe a few of Frederick County's strategic economic cornerstones. These, in combination with outstanding public education institutions and top-ranking healthcare facilities, provide additional confidence to businesses about Frederick County's economic environment. Multiple four -lane highways (which can reach much of the U.S./Canadian population in one day), quick access to a general airport and three international airports (Washington -Dulles International Airport, Baltimore -Washington International Airport, and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport), and daily intermodal connection via the Virginia Inland Port are just a few of the reasons businesses like operating in Frederick County, Virginia. Geographically, Frederick County is strategically placed in the Mid -Atlantic region of the United States and along major North/South and East/West transportation routes. This is a valuable asset to companies serving the North American and European markets. In addition to the outstanding geographic reach, Frederick County employers enjoy a ' with 999 . ng pFegFan9s st te help th #a+N+ng. labor supply from a 45 -minute drive -time across 10 counties in Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. The total labor supply is more than 340,000 professionals, THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 24 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT over 90.8% of which are high school graduates (or higher); 40.1% hold an associate degree or higher. Widely recognized employers are operating in Frederick County, including HP Hood, Kraft - Heinz Foods, M&H Plastics, Navy Federal Credit Union, Rubbermaid and Thermo Fisher Scientific. A mix of manufacturing, retail, professional service, logistics, customer service, technology and entrepreneurial enterprises keep the economy strong. Our region is among the top 10% best performing metros in Virginia for capital investment and new job creation over the last decade. The County's business community has steadily grown over the years and has been recognized for its range of offerings, proximity to major metros and its long-term appeal to some of today's leading manufacturers, financial operations and more. With an extensive and diverse business portfolio, $326 million in capital expenditures between 2018-2020, and ongoing partnerships between the business community and educational institutions, Frederick County has consistently retained leading companies. Frederick County has also been recognized as one of the most prosperous economies in the state. In fact, the County falls within the top 10% of Virginia localities over the last decade for new capital investment and new job growth and is consistently rated a great place to operate a business. Winchester VA -WV MSA is No. 9 on Forbes' 'Best Small Places for Business and Careers" in 2019. Frederick County prides itself as a vibrant, pro-business community with an immense commitment to business. In fact, FF�ok the County, has employed a 'business support at every step" approached for over 30 years. One such resource includes call -team visits to local businesses to communicate training resources and expansion assistance opportunities. The Frederick County EDA has an established track record of facilitating financial and workforce training assistance to expanding companies an awaFd i i , visits, Frederick County, Virginia's, consistent economic success provides businesses with assurance that their investment will grow. / 262 and eveF 42,000 Fesidents On the weFl(feFee. Gf that nHmbeF 899,6 ef � pp / `^g ' _ .m The largest employment sector in F -T, -ter ` County, , is Manufacturing, (5,993 6,048 workers). The next -largest sectors are Transportation and Warehousing (4,197), Retail Trade (3,7 25 3,615 workers) and Educational Services (3,757 3,071). Sectors with the highest average wage per worker are Public Administration ($`� $71,453), Finance and Insurance ($68,960), and Utilities ($64,375). Regional sectors with the best job growth (or most moderate job losses) over the last 5 years are Transportation and Warehousing (1,980), Manufacturing (+954 jobs), Finance and THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 25 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Insurance (+693), and Public Administration (+427). Over the next 10 years, employment in F~TCountyia is projected to expand by 6,618 jobs. The fastest growing sector in the region is expected to be HealthCare and Social Assistance with a +3. ' % year -over -year rate of growth. The strongest forecast by number of jobs over this period is expected for Transportation and Warehousing (+1,007), Manufacturing (+744), HealthCare and Social Assistance (+655), Construction (+576) and Retail Trade (+519). Education opportunities abound in Frederick County which include #as a well-respected primary education system and higher education opportunities 1R additieR, at the following establishments: • Shenandoah University • Laurel Ridge Community College • Old Dominion University Satellite Office at LFGG The Community has an excellent healthcare system which is centered around the Valley Health Systems. The rate of expansion in the County has increased significantly in the last 10 years. Facilities in the Winchester -Frederick County area now include: • Winchester Medical Center • Regional Referral Center • Level II Trauma Center • Heart and Vascular Center • Cancer Center • Diagnostic and Imaging Center • Quick Care / Urgent Care Centers • Health and Wellness Center Frederick County provides a quality of living which is considered to be a factor in recruiting companies and maintaining a desirable workforce. The City of Winchester, with its successful downtown walking mall, is a resource for additional workforce and provides numerous retail and entertainment opportunities. FOCUS FOR THE FUTURE The Plan recognizes the changing nature of the social and economic environment and identifies potential adjustments to existing resource use. In order to maintain a desirable and competitive real estate tax rate, the County strives to achieve ratio of 25/75 between commercial/industrial (C&I) land uses and residential uses in terms of their collective taxable value. The County seeks to achieve fiscal balance through land use planning. To encourage C & I uses, Frederick County has designated certain areas solely for potential development, these types =F uses such as the Route 11 North corridor, Kernstown area, Round Hill, the Route 277 Triangle area (SoFred), and in the vicinity of the Winchester Regional Airport. Future planning efforts will continue to identify opportunities to align land uses to promote business development. COMMUNITY BENEFITS THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 26 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Adequate amounts of land must be planned for and designated for both C & I uses and residential development -5. Striking a balance of these land uses and ensuring that the tax rates remain low and that services are available to support these initiatives will help make Frederick County an economic engine within the region. GOALS/STRATEGIES GOAL 1: DEVELOP A STRATEGY THAT PROMOTES THE EXPANSION OF DESIRABLE BUSINESS AND INDUSTRIAL LAND USES. STRATEGIES: • The Frederick County Economic Development Authority's (EDA) targeted industries: (as of February 2021) include the following: •ori • Advanced Manufacturing Headquarters & Back Office • Professional & Creative Services Agribusiness & Food Processing THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 27 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT OFFICE AND INDUSTRIAL CURRENT CONDITIONS Geographically, Frederick County is strategically placed in the Mid -Atlantic region of the United States and along major North/South and East/West transportation routes. This is a valuable asset to companies serving the North American and European markets. The County's location places its businesses halfway between the markets of the north and south, and therefore the ability to reach much of the U.S./Canadian population in one day. Over 60% of the goods manufactured in the United States are distributed from the 750 -mile (1,207 kilometers) area. In addition to being halfway between Boston and Atlanta, Winchester -Frederick County is well positioned equidistant between Los Angeles and London. For national and international companies, being in the Eastern Time Zone maximizes their hours of operations, which helps to improve efficiencies. Excellent road, rail, inland ocean port and the Dulles World Cargo Center provide access to the major markets in North America, Latin America, and globally. Interstate 81 runs directly through the County. Several major airports are within 100 miles of Frederick County, including Washington -Dulles International Airport (IAD), Baltimore - Washington International Airport (BWI), and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). Frederick County is home to a growing regional general aviation airport. These assets support access to Frederick County's business development opportunities. With the formation of the Washington -Baltimore Metropolitan Statistical Area after the 1990 US Census, the sixth largest USA market begins at the County Line. This close proximity to Washington D.C. also provides access to the unique opportunities associated with the Federal Government and the County's location is supportive of those policies established for purposes of Homeland Security. In addition to the ideal central geographic location of Frederick County, other significant strengths of the FFire County market, particular to attracting new office and industrial development, include faveFable tax Fates, qHality ef life, nunqeFeus edHeatien eptiens, , size of skilled workforce, recognized economic performance, business support at every step, and a diverse current office and industrial community. Frederick County is currently the site of several government facilities, including, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the Army Corps of Engineers, ander: _: =Rtly seleeted site F__ z Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Records Storage facility. Current office and industrial operations within the community provide for diversity in current business markets. The economic strength of the area is further enhanced by the fact that the area is not linked to one major industry or employer. There is a redundancy in resources offered at certain business parks. THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 28 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT FOCUS FOR THE FUTURE Frederick County should focus on targeted office and industrial business development opportunities over the next twenty years (as outlined in the Introduction). No business development marketing strategy will be effective if sufficient acreage has not been designated to accommodate desired business uses in suitable key locations. Area plans should continue to identify and incorporate ample areas of business and industrial land use. Frederick County supports green initiatives in the field of economic development. Viable development initiatives should be recognized, and their implementation encouraged. Such an example is rail access and transportation which will become more valuable and expected in industrial settings due to desire to operate effectively and efficiently. F edeFiel( The County should be proactive in ensuring the resources necessary for business development are planned for in a viable way and available to support identified office and industrial users. With regards to infrastructure (i.e. water, wastewater treatment, communication and electricity`, manufacturers will require adequate supply and availability, but will also be interested in quality and service reliability. There is a finite capacity of these resources that must be managed accordingly. COMMUNITY BENEFITS The value of office and industrial business development to Frederick County is immeasurable. As part of the County's economic development effort, office and industrial growth is a key component for ensuring a broad selection of employment opportunities for ire citizens e€ The continuation of a low residential tax rate is a direct result of the expansion of the commercial and industrial tax base. Currently commercial and industrial tax revenue accounts for approximately 3-3'" % of the County's tax base. The County's goal indicates this should be around 25% to ensure a balanced fiscal environment. Tax revenue derived from the average single-family residence is approximately fifty percent of the cost of service provided for that same residence. The County's fiscal survival is dependent upon recruiting office and industrial occupants which offset those residential costs. Overall, a sound office and industrial business development strategy will result in the conservation of a variety of finite resources and promote a high quality of life for the citizens of Frederick County. GOALS/ STRATEGIES GOAL 1: IDENTIFY AND RECOGNIZE AREAS IN THE COUNTY MOST STRATEGICALLY SUITED FOR OFFICE AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES: Complete review of area land use plans to ensure sufficient acreage is designated for office and industrial uses. THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 29 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT • All infrastructure, such as voice and data fiber, electric, water, wastewater, and natural gas, should be extended to areas identified for office and industrial uses and non -rural residential areas. • The rezoning process should be examined and streamlined as appropriate in order to encourage landowners of properties identified in Area Plans (see Appendix I) to proceed with rezoning. GOAL 2: PROACTIVELY ATTRACT DESIRED BUSINESS ENTITIES STRATEGIES: • Review and revise the office and manufacturing zoning districts to further encourage development of targeted industries. • Continue to examine and fund business location marketing studies that build or modify the current business base, to help the County forward its goal of increased income for its citizens and tax value for the County. GOAL 3: CONSIDER REGULATIONS ENCOURAGING AND/OR REQUIRING SERVICE REDUNDANCY IN OFFICE & INDUSTRIAL AREAS STRATEGIES: • Create incentives for industrial site developers to implement service redundancy. THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 30 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT RETAIL CURRENT CONDITIONS The retail sales potential of any geographic market is based upon a mixture of many factors, a few of which are: • The number of households within the market. • The average disposable income of those households. • The sophistication and depth of surrounding competing markets. • The presence of a marketing effort for the area (as opposed to the marketing of an individual venue). From a land use perspective as well as general business development, retail needs to be viewed in at least 3 parts: • National Retail • Small Retail • Meals Away from Home FOCUS FOR THE FUTURE Over the next twenty years, population growth in Frederick County and its environs will continue to fuel retail development and the opening of varied retailers throughout the area. Frederick County has already taken necessary steps to prepare. The establishment of the Frederick County Economic Development Authority (EDA) is an example. A locality has little impact on the decision of the "national" retailer to locate in an area, unless the number of households in the market and the average disposable income of those households H19less 'te ffis # " meet their individual business model. With a "small" retailer the driving factor is affordable available space. Frederick County must strategically identify prime areas for commercial land use in key locations to capitalize on future commercial opportunities. In addition, Frederick County must continue to effectively market itself to the network of developers, national and regional retail trade organizations, retailers, and tenant -representation real estate agents and brokers that influence site selection decisions. While the County's ability to attract national and regional developers and retailers to the area cannot be understated, the County must not underestimate the importance of supporting locally owned and operated developments and retail establishments. The growth of such locally owned businesses within the market's retail mix will have a direct positive impact to the vitality of the market's retail profile and the quality of life of local residents. COMMUNITY BENEFITS Successful growth of retail equates to an increase in sales tax revenue to support county services and capital improvements. A strong retail environment also plays a key role in the quality of life for the residents of any geographic area and thus plays an integral role in an individual family, a corporation, or other entity deciding to relocate to that area. Retail growth also equates to more jobs, both directly (with the retailers themselves) and indirectly (a strong retail environment plays a role in drawing employers to the area). THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 31 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT GOALS/ STRATEGIES GOAL 1: PROMOTE FREDERICK COUNTY AS A DYNAMIC, RETAIL MARKET. STRATEGIES: • Develop a unified marketing plan for the County. • Strategically identify prime areas for commercial land use in key locations to capitalize on future commercial opportunities. GOAL 2: FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS SHOULD BE OF A HIGH QUALITY. STRATEGIES: • Promote enhanced architectural/design requirements for future retail development, including structure appearance, landscaping, and signage. • Encourage mixed use developments for future residential and commercial developments. • Identify regulations that may require modification to support the inclusion of a limited retail component within residential developments. THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 32 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT TOURISM CURRENT CONDITIONS Frederick County and the surrounding areas play host every year to nationally recognized events such as the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival and Belle Grove Civil War living history reenactments. The area is home to the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, the Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historic Park, the North-South Skirmish, various year-round live theater and performance centers, a revitalized and vibrant Old Town Winchester, and other key assets such as orchards, farm markets, historic homes, battlefields, and natural resources that bring travelers and their tourism dollars to the area. The County also supports a growing number of wineries and the potential for new craft breweries and distilleries, as well as outstanding outdoor recreational opportunities such as the Tuscarora hiking trail, an ATV trail, seasonal navigable waterways, and access to regional spets amenities such as the Appalachian Trail, Shenandoah River, and the Shenandoah National Park. As the economy improves and travel increases, it is critical that the County be poised to capitalize on the growth in travel and tourism. The Winchester - Frederick County Convention and Visitors Bureau, a city/county tourism marketing partnership, is a key component in developing the marketing strategy to attract additional visitors, and subsequent spending, to the area. The economic impact of travel and tourism reaches every citizen of Frederick County (each household pays less each year in local & state taxes due to the revenue generated by tourism) by providing employment and tax revenues. Tourism also helps to support a diverse portfolio of local events, attractions and activities and thereby contributes to the quality of life for local residents. FOCUS FOR THE FUTURE First impressions often set the tone for a visitor's experience, and the great majority of travelers arrive in Frederick County through its roadways. The character of Frederick County's entrance corridors, especially in areas adjacent to the city of Winchester, is a key factor for the visitor's experience and their decision to stay longer and hopefully return. Enhancing the aesthetics and traffic flow of these corridors will improve visitor impressions and will benefit the quality of life for residents. Frederick County should concentrate on strengthening its ability to attract an increasing number of overnight visitors through targeted, strategic, and collaborative branding and marketing efforts that focus on visitor experiences. The ultimate goal will be to enhance the visitor experience. Agritourism Agritourism takes place on a farm or ranch and may include the opportunity to assist with the day-to-day activities associated with running the farm or to participate in the use of these lands for outdoor related events or activities. The term agritourism has also been broadened now to include wineries, breweries, and distilleries, which, combined, are the hottest trend in tourism product development in the Commonwealth. Agritourism is discussed at length in the following section of this chapter. THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 33 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT GOALS/ STRATEGIES GOAL 1: RECOGNIZE DIVERSIFIED LAND USE FOR TOURISM RELATED ACTIVITIES STRATEGIES: • Ensure that business owners are supported in their efforts to bring tourism activities to the local consumer market • Continue to support rural agribusiness such as breweries, wineries and distilleries. GOAL 2: LINK THE AREA'S VISITOR ATTRACTIONS WITH A TRAIL NETWORK THAT FACILITATES NON -VEHICULAR MOVEMENT STRATEGIES: • Work with the Northern Shenandoah Valley Regional Commission (NSVRC) and surrounding jurisdictions to update and improve the regional bicycle and pedestrian plan, "Walking and Wheeling in the Northern Shenandoah Valley". • Support the Redbud Run Greenway project to provide a trail network that will link natural areas, battlefields, including the existing five -mile trail on the Civil War Preservation Trust property, schools, and other facilities in the Redbud Run corridor. GOAL 3: PRESERVE AND ENHANCE THE HISTORIC CHARACTER OF FREDERICK COUNTY'S ROADWAYS STRATEGIES: • Foster a compact community design that uses traditional building features to maintain Frederick County's unique historic character. • Focus development in compact centers, using Neighborhood Design guidelines, and keeping the rural, agricultural landscape as part of the visitor experience in Frederick County. THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 34 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AGRIBUSINESS CURRENT CONDITIONS Frederick County's rural character is a key component in its identity and one of the that draw visitors and new residents to the area. Historically, these rural areas have supported a wide array of agricultural uses, which at one time was the primary industry in the County. Today these these agricultural and forestry activities fret efl-ly generate roughly $33 million per year bizFt and th-ey preserve close to 110,000 acres of rural land. From 2012 to 2017, the total acreage in Frederick County farms grew by over 9,000 acres. uses has deeloRred OR the last 29 yea willingness feF families te invest on higheF qHality, leeally seHFeed and enViFen mentally Agritourism continues to be a growing sector within the County's rural areas. Agritourism is a term that is applied to activities that allow visitors to tour some or all of an operational farm, participate in the cultivation or harvest of farm products, purchase and consume products grown directly on the farm, or participate in festivals or activities related to significant agricultural seasons or events. Examples include farm tours, pick -your -own farm operations, roadside farm -stands, wineries, or fall harvest festivals. The County in recent years has also seen increasing interest in the development of utility - scale photovoltaic energy generation facilities (i.e., solar farms). Due to the large land area assemblage needed to develop these facilities, the rural areas of the County have been the primary target. Utility scale solar facilities are typically passive uses with limited impacts to the environment and the rural character. Additionally, implementation of this use can facilitate the preservation of agricultural and rural land for future use once these sites are decommissioned, although the extent to which the use removes agricultural and rural land from current use should also be considered. Utility -scale solar facilities, when located in appropriate areas, can provide opportunities for landowners to recoup value from their property without subdividing. The Code of Virginia also enables localities implementing solar facilities to tax this utility infrastructure through the machinery and tools tax or revenue - share agreements with utility operators, generating additional tax revenue beyond the land use assessment. This additional revenue can help the County offset impacts from residential development. To protect the amount of land available for agricultural use, the County provides B=rakes a variety of tools and programs available to landowners. The County continues to Ito the Land Use Tax Deferral Program which allows taxpayers to apply for speeially reduced assessments as for qualifying agricultural, horticultural, and forestry uses. Participation in one of County's many Agricultural and Forestal Districts is available to County property owners. As of 2021, there were ftht districts covering approximately acres. G _F the past few „- F. Frederick County has worked to implement en ingplengentft new tools to which not only help protect the agricultural lands in the County but at the same time also help rural landowners realize economic return from their propert, the FaF ffi_F eapt Fe without aetHally developing or selling the land. These programs include the Purchase of Development Rights Program and the Transfer of Development Rights THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 35 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Program. These programs are discussed further in the Rural Areas chapter. FOCUS FOR THE FUTURE Agricultural operations in Frederick County agFieHltHFe will continue to evolve. As such, the County should be prepared to respond to new rural related business and agricultural models including new agricultural techniques, value-added farm products, on-site events, sales, and services. These business opportunities can allow rural landowners to diversify their sources of income and engage niche agricultural and tourism markets. A,_-..-._.,_-" the GeHnty sheHld F,.,.Hs en ingpI,,.,.,enting .,,_,I„_-mes that .-..e �.. ri�i�.. �h.. ..�...-+i.. r, ..f �h...-.. -i ^I -- - ---- -..II r .-{-r..-. w,li.�, .. �h.. -- that - f..r rr __ ��_. ._.__ _.._ r�_____. _.. _. _.fees �. �. �. _�_ �_ well �_ __. _�......._ _.._ �:-_____ _' fees and _a.___ g_.._.a__d .._... _.fees new _pp_._H..._.__ _.._H.d be __.._.d_._d as well. COMMUNITY BENEFITS Once land is converted from agricultural use it is unlikely that it will ever be reclaimed. The rural economy of Frederick County plays a significant role in the life and livelihood of its inhabitants. In addition to providing food products for the region, agriculture is a revenue generator which requires very few local services. Agriculture contributes to Frederick County's extraordinary viewsheds while providing a living to its farmers, citizens, and a place of enjoyment for its visitors. Most importantly, -a-r active, profitable �� agricultural operation -; reduce the amount of land converted to more intensive deRse uses. Diversification of land use fort4+e agricultural purposes not only generates notable income and drive more tourism dollars to the County, it can also offer #fie protection the land from potential conversion to residential uses. GOALS/ STRATEGIES GOAL1: THE COUNTY SHOULD CONTINUE TO SUPPORT ITS AGRICULTURAL INDUSTRIES WHILE ALSO RESPONDING TO INDUSTRY CHANGES Tr€ t N r1T�'�'U ST IT. STRATEGIES: • Diversified uses en the faFng site such as farm markets, alternative fuels, animal boarding, Pick -Your -Own operations, agritourism, vineyards, wineries, distilleries and micro -breweries and specialty crops, etc., should be encouraged to help preserve farming and agricultural uses in Frederick County. TTT-,Ordinances should be reviewed to FefeFelgee apr4 enable to #til+ a wide range of agriculturally related activities. Care must be taken to ensure that such activities are compatible in scale, size and intensity with surrounding land uses and the rural character. Value added processes and support businesses should be examined for location within the Rural Area. These processes currently are permitted in the business districts. THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 36 BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT • Continue to al+ew-and -encourage 4+1 e use of the Land Use Tax Deferral Program, Agricultural and Forestal Programs, Purchase of Development Rights Program, and the Transfer of Development Rights Program. • Continue to regulate solar facilities through the Conditional Use Permit process to protect adjacent properties and the agricultural/rural character of these areas. • The County should ensure that the siting of new solar facilities do not detract from the agricultural and rural character within its rural areas and will protect agricultural and rural land for future use once decommissioned. THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 37 �: � � .� ..� - r �. y �"�- - - � �� M1 � �, - _ _.� f -=��--_�� H'y i i/ � _ F-- ,fis a Imo._ fJ: �� ,� � - ' F r � ,,< Y s ` f��s �. � '� �, �.� ��/ ;,, TRANSPORTATION TRANSPORTATION CURRENT CONDITIONS Frederick County has grown significantly in the past two decades in both population and economic development, placing a significant demand upon the transportation system. Current County policy follows State Code guidance to ensure that new development offsets its impacts to the transportation system. A significant portion of congested roadways in the County can be linked to by -right development that does not offset its transportation impacts since it is not required by the Code of Virginia. This has had the greatest impact upon Interstate 81 and the primary highways in the County. Primary Highways include Routes 37, 522, 50, 7, 277 and 11. Based upon the most recent Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) data available (2016) Frederick County has 1,853 lane miles of roadway that are part of the state system. As of 2019, VDOT estimates that vehicles traveled 3,323,511 miles per day on Frederick County roadways. This is an over 2009,o' increase since 1990. The vast majority of this travel is focused upon the Interstate and Primary systems. Planning Activities Transportation planning for Frederick County takes place in many ways. In addition to local comprehensive planning, Frederick County is a member of the WinFred Metropolitan Planning Organization. As part of that organization, the County participates in regional long range planning and has access to resources for numerous other planning studies. In addition, the County annually updates the Frederick County Interstate, Primary, and Secondary Road Plans which highlight key priorities. Finally, the County also regularly conducts small area plans such as the Northeast Land Use Plan and the 277 Triangle Land Use Plan which focus on smaller portions of the County. With the exception of a situation where the small area plan is more detailed, any discrepancy between the two plans will be resolved by the Eastern Road Plan. Urban Areas It is the County's policy to focus future growth in the Urban Areas, within the boundaries of the Urban Development Area (UDA) and Sewer and Water Service Area (SWSA). In addition, the County has Feeent+y taken additional steps for growth within the UDA by adopting a Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) ordinance which allows by -right residential development rights to be sold by landowners in the rural areas to landowners inside the UDA. Ultimately, while this results in increased traffic in the UDA, this is still a net financial benefit to the County. This allows the County and State to focus roadway improvements within the UDA as opposed to having to expand roadways throughout the entire County. The Eastern Road Plan is the guide to roadway development/improvements in and around the urban areas. As of the year 2000 census, the urbanized portions of Frederick County, Winchester, and Stephens City area reached the population threshold (50,000) that led to the federally required creation of a Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). In Frederick County the THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 39 TRANSPORTATION MPO boundary is concentrated around the development in the eastern section, and along Route 11 to West Virginia in the north, and to Stephens City in the South. Staffed by the Northern Shenandoah Valley Regional Commission, the MPO is responsible for creating a long range transportation plan that meets air quality standards. The MPO is currently operating under the 2040 Metropolitan Transportation Plan; a planned update will be undertaken in 2021. Rural Areas Improvements to secondary roads in the more rural western portion of the County are focused on safety and maintenance as opposed to creating additional capacity. The possible exception to this would be areas where the Comprehensive Plan proposes the development of Rural Community Centers. Capacity and safety improvements to primary roadways in the rural areas will be addressed on an as needed basis. Transportation funding for improvements in Frederick County have largely been accomplished through development proffers and the VDOT Revenue Sharing Program. Whenever possible, the County uses public-private partnerships to make improvements. Key examples of this include the Crossover Blvd. connection from Route 522 to the City of Winchester over 1-81, Phase I of Renaissance Drive, and Snowden Bridge Blvd from Route 11 North to Milburn Road. The County is also active in the areas of rail access funding and economic development road access funding. In recent years new legislation has created additional revenue streams to fund transportation in the Commonwealth. The most important development for Frederick County has been the creation of the 1-81 Authority, which provides additional gas tax revenue for projects along and related to the function of 1-81. However, in spite of new state level funding for roads other than 1-81, the VDOT Staunton District, in which Frederick County resides, continues to receive one of the lowest District Grant allocations in the state, which results in a significant backlog of critical needs projects. How the County, State, and Federal governments work together to create a long-term funding policy for transportation will have far reaching impacts on transportation systems in Frederick County. The majority of construction in Virginia is funded through the Smart Scale Program (formerly HB2) and HB1887, which has significantly changed the process by which transportation projects will be funded within the Commonwealth. The stated purpose of the new system is to score transportation projects and remove politics from the decision making process. Based on the Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) adopted criteria, economic development is the most influential factor in scoring criteria for Frederick County. The County will continue to coordinate with the Economic Development Authority (EDA) to highlight the economic development importance of key roadways and improvements. During the first round of the Smart Scale Program the County was successful on a number of applications, the most significant of which was Route 277 from 1-81 Exit 307 to Double Church Road which includes THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 40 TRANSPORTATION widening, access management for safety and a realignment of the Aylor Road intersection away from the interchange. To date, that project, now under construction, remains Frederick County's largest funded project under the SmartScale project. FOCUS FOR THE FUTURE In the next twenty to thirty years, it is expected that a number of key transportation milestones will be reached. The issue of long-term road construction funding must be resolved, which will allow significant transportation system improvements to move forward. Most crucial is the completion of the Route 37 Eastern bypass, which is critical for both residential and economic development traffic. Completion of this roadway has been a top priority for Frederick County for many years. The next most needed project in the County is the update of the Exit 317 Interchange, which the County has applied for through SmartScale several times at this point. The Eastern Road Plan will continue to guide road projects and will evolve to address the long-range transportation needs of the County. The County will work to ensure that development and transportation agencies routinely design and operate the entire right-of-way to enable safe access for drivers, transit users and vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists, as well as for older people, children, and people with disabilities. This goal aims to balance the diverse needs of all users of the public right-of-way and promote an integrated, multi -modal (or multiple modes of transportation) transportation system. Simply put, when roads in the secondary and primary system are being improved this means that the County will consider all potential users of the transportation system when making improvements or, working with development, or constructing new facilities. This goal will benefit Frederick County as it addresses important safety, health, and environmental considerations, and promotes growth and revitalization within the Community. Over time, it is expected that private transit options will begin to play a larger role in Frederick County's transportation network. This would likely begin with demand type services for the special need's populations, elderly, and disabled. The County has routinely supported applications for funding to the state for providers of these services through the MPO. As densities increase in the UDA and citizen preferences continue to shift, it is expected that bicycle and pedestrian accommodations will continue to increase in importance. The Frederick County School System has • ith a waw ",ige now opened more than one elementary school with incorporated walk zones and they plan to continue promoting of this type of school. Finally, with the growth potential of the Virginia Inland Port in Warren County, Frederick County has experienced and can expect a continuing increase in freight movement via rail and roadways. The development of the County's transportation infrastructure should continue to address transportation improvements that will further the economic growth of the Community. This would also include future growth of the Winchester Regional Airport. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 41 TRANSPORTATION COMMUNITY BENEFITS The benefits to the Community of a healthy transportation system are immeasurable. An efficient transportation system leads to communities that are less stressed, healthier, less polluted, safer, and more attractive to economic development opportunities and new residents. A policy that creates an interconnected system of bicycle and pedestrian facilities will lead to a healthier d ;; ter community as well as increased home values. Removal of cars from the roadway would reduce congestion and air pollution. The mixed-use land use pattern promoted by New Urbanism and the urban center concept of this Plan further promotes these policies. The transportation system is also a key consideration for business looking to expand or locate in a community leeatiens. An efficient transportation system will make the County more attractive to new businesses and will also keep existing businesses from looking to locate elsewhere. In addition, continued focus on intermodal opportunities (the transfer of goods between different transportation modes such as truck to rail or air) in the area will make the County more attractive to businesses looking to take advantage of rail sidings or locations near the airport. The County's willingness to support both road and rail access funding has already led to increased economic development interest. The result is more jobs for County citizens as well as a more valuable and diverse tax base. As residential and commercial development continues, increasing demands will be placed upon the County's transportation infrastructure. Challenges will continue to be placed on the County by users of Interstate 81 and commuters through the area. The role of Frederick County is to first plan the transportation system and then work with new and existing development to preserve corridor right-of-ways and implement construction needs. The State and Federal government, as well as private development, carry the primary responsibility to fund transportation improvements necessary to ensure the future health of the County's transportation network. However, it may be necessary to consider strategic local funding contributions in order to leverage State and Federal funds, or match and incentivize private investment. GOALS/STRATEGIES GOAL 1TO PROMOTE THE DEVELOPMENT OF NEW ROADWAYS AND THE REDEVELOPMENT OF EXISTING ROADWAYS IN A MANNER THAT MAKES THEM OPEN, AVAILABLE, AND SAFE TO ALL MODES OF TRANSPORTATION. STRATEGIES: • Match desired form of development to roadway classification to simplify the determination of which roadways receive which treatment. That is, different types of streets for different land uses. For example, while some roadways would require a THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 42 TRANSPORTATION separate bicycle and pedestrian trail in order to be more accessible to bicyclists and pedestrians. In rural areas a wider shoulder section may be more appropriate. • Work with new development and redevelopment to implement this policy and the overall transportation plan. This may require analysis and modification of the existing subdivision ordinance. • Work cooperatively with the School Board to identify school locations that meet both school and County goals of public access and safe walkability. • Seek outside funding sources to fill in gaps in order to attach separate segments and create a fully interconnected system. • Continue to monitor the County ordinances to ensure they meet the shifting needs of facility planning and VDOT standards. GOAL 2: IMPLEMENT THE ROADWAY PRIORITIES OF THE COUNTY AS OUTLINED ANNUALLY IN THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN, THE INTERSTATE, PRIMARY AND SECONDARY ROAD PLANS, AND THE EASTERN ROAD PLAN, AND PARTICULARLY ROUTE 37 EAST. STRATEGIES: • Work with new development and redevelopment to implement the Eastern Road Plan through construction and preservation of rights -of- way. • Continue to work closely with VDOT, State and Federal representatives, and any other available revenue sources to increase transportation funding. • In the absence of outside funding, continue to protect rights-of-way and move forward on planning transportation priorities. • Coordinate with VDOT to make sure the required percentage of maintenance funds to be spent on other accommodations is used on County priorities. • Maintain the character of the rural roadways in the County while addressing safety issues as they may arise. GOAL 3: IMPROVE UPON EXISTING TRANSPORTATION SAFETY AND SERVICE LEVELS IN THE COUNTY. STRATEGIES: • Coordinate with VDOT in the scoping and review of Traffic Impact Analyses (TIA). • Analyze VDOT Access Management standards and, when needed, adopt County standards that are stronger. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 43 TRANSPORTATION • Work with new development and redevelopment to ensure that trip generation and new movements do not degrade the transportation system, increase delays, or reduce service levels. • Create an informal working group with Staff, VDOT, and law enforcement to identify and address safety concerns with coordination to be handled by Planning and Development and the Board's Transportation Committee (TC). GOAL 4: KEEPING THE COST WORK TO ENHANCE WHEREVER POSS I BLE. STRATEGIES: OF INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY COMPETITIVE. USE OF INTERMODAL FREIGHT MOVEMENT • Coordinate with local business to maximize the use of Economic Development Road Access funding, as well as Rail Access funding. • Actively work with rail carriers through the Economic Development Authority to maximize the amount of material that is shipped into and out of Frederick County via rail. • Perform a study to discern where opportunities to bring air freight into the regional airport may be available. • Work to encourage and maximize opportunities presented by expansion of the Virginia Inland Port. . • Make use of revenue sharing funds for development of industrial property when the Board of Supervisors determines that it is in the best interest of Frederick County. • Incorporate the Airport Master Plan into the County planning efforts. GOAL 5: IMPROVE THE BEAUTY OF TRANSPORTATION CORRIDORS AT THE COUNTY GATEWAYS AND ALONG COMMERCIAL ROADWAYS. STRATEGIES: • Work with VDOT to create roadway design plans that meet standards while beautifying local gateways and commercial corridors. • Through the Transportation Committee, develop a plan and actively promote corridor beautification. This should include working with local institutions to create more attractive County entrances into their facilities. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 44 TRANSPORTATION GOAL 6: ENSURE SAFE OPERATION OF FIRE AND RESCUE VEHICLES AND SCHOOL BUSSES. STRATEGIES: • Investigate the existence and potential removal of barriers between neighborhoods that lead to delays in response, particularly for the Greenwood and Millwood Companies. • Promote the adoption of a uniform locking technology acceptable to the Fire and Rescue Department for use on gated and locked emergency access points. • Analyze driving, road, and parking standards and actively seek the Fire and Rescue Department input for driveways and roads to ensure that all approved developments are accessible by fire equipment. GOAL 7: PROVIDE COST-EFFECTIVE ALTERNATIVES TO AUTOMOBILE TRAVEL AS NEEDED, FOR THE ELDERLY, DISABLED, STUDENTS, AND WORKFORCE. STRATEGIES: • Coordinate with existing agencies such as the Shenandoah Area Agency on Aging (SAAA) and Access Independence to secure outside funding to enhance service to the elderly and disabled in the community. • Make use of the Winchester -Frederick Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) resources to identify areas of most critical need. • Monitor existing data source updates to determine areas of growing need. STATE CODE COMPLIANCE The Code of Virginia, Section 15.2-2222.1, states specific requirements for the development of a transportation plan as it relates to comprehensive plans: B.1. As part of the comprehensive plan, each locality shall develop a transportation plan that designates a system of transportation infrastructure needs and recommendations that include the designation of new and expanded transportation facilities and that support the planned development of the territory covered by the plan and shall include, as appropriate, but not be limited to, roadways, bicycle accommodations, pedestrian accommodations, railways, bridges, waterways, airports, ports, and public transportation facilities. The plan shall recognize and differentiate among a hierarchy of roads such as expressways, arterials, and collectors. In developing the plan, the locality shall take into consideration how to align transportation infrastructure and facilities with affordable, accessible housing and community services that are located within the THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 45 TRANSPORTATION territory in order to facilitate community integration of the elderly and persons with disabilities. The Virginia Department of Transportation shall, upon request, provide localities with technical assistance in preparing such transportation plan. B.2. The transportation plan shall include a map that shall show road and transportation improvements, including the cost estimates of such road and transportation improvements from the Virginia Department of Transportation, taking into account the current and future needs of residents in the locality while considering the current and future needs of the planning district within which the locality is situated. This chapter has been reviewed by VDOT officials and has been determined to meet the requirements outlined in state code. PLANN I NG ASSUMPTI ONS While many factors impact changes in transportation needs and patterns, the most significant factors impacting the transportation system in Frederick County are population and employment growth. Desired patterns for that growth and policies and strategies to support those patterns are outline earlier in this chapter of the Comprehensive Plan. As noted in the WinFred MPO 2040 Metropolitan Transportation Plan, population in Frederick County which was 78,305 in 2010 is expected to reach 151,408 by 2040. This is a decrease from the previously expected horizon year population of 153,945 from the 2035 plan. Employment which was 23,499 in 2010 is expected to reach 93,000 by 2040. This growth paFtieHlaFly pepHlatiee is expected to add significant stress to the Frederick County transportation system. NEEDS ASSUMPTIONS A number of factors aid in determining near and long term needs in the County. While the most key input in determining needs and impacts is the modeling processes undertaken through the WinFred Metropolitan Planning Organization, many factors help in determining needs such as coordination with the Virginia Department of Transportation, safety concerns, maintenance needs, citizen concerns, and economic development. Shown below are the 2040 Projected Volumes and Volume/Capacity Ratio maps from the modeling work done with the WinFred Metropolitan Planning Organization. These modeling outputs are a significant tool in determining and vetting near term as well as long range transportation needs. Some of the County's most immediate near term needs are as follows: Route 37 Route 37 has long been the County's top priority, and this continues to be true. The completion of the Route 37 loop around the eastern portion of the County will not only relieve congestion on numerous local routes that have become congested as the County has grown, but also offers relief on 1-81 by helping to remove local trips from the interstate as well as offering an additional relief valve when there are incidents that lead to 1-81 delays or closures. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 46 TRANSPORTATION The segment of Route 37 that is of top priority is from 1-81 exit 310 to Route 522. This segment offers important additional connectivity between 1-81 and Route 522, which, in addition to significantly aiding local travel, will offer improved access to the Virginia Inland Port. This roadway is also expected to ease congestion on Route 277 and at Exit 313. 1-81 Exit 313 Bridge +slues— The 1-81 Exit 313 Bridge replacement has been funded by VDOT, however relatively few funds on the project allow for increased capacity. The need for significant capacity improvements at this interchange remains a priority. 1-81 Exit 317 and Redbud Road There are currently two projects that are being pursued for this project at this time. The first T4iis project would realign the northbound exit ramp of 1-81 onto Route 11 to the location where Redbud Road currently intersects Route 11. This would align the interstate ramps which are currently offset and allow the removal of a signal on Route 11 north. In addition, this project would realign Redbud Road to a new intersection with Snowden Bridge Boulevard. This project is expected to aid congestion and improve safety at this area of Route 11 North as well as reduce stacking of traffic at the exit ramps. The second project, which his more costly, would implement a more long-term solution in the form of a diverging diamond interchange. With good design and planning, it is possible that the first project could be done in a way to provide nearer term relief while the County continues to pursue the larger solution for the long term without creating throwaway improvements. Route 11 North Corridor Widening Modeling of the expected development along the Route 11 North corridor indicates a need for widening and access management to the entire corridor with the corridor to become 6 lanes to Cedar Hill Road and 4 lanes to the West Virginia State line. The most immediate need is to widen from Route 37 to Old Charlestown Road. Route 11 South Route 11 South, particularly in the vicinity of Apple Valley Road, Commonwealth Court, and the interchange with Route 37 is becoming increasingly congested as surrounding area economic development has taken place. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 47 TRANSPORTATION Additional near-term needs: Renaissance Drive from Prosperity Drive to Shady Elm (currently in design) Valley Mill Road Realignment (East) Valley Mill Road Realignment (West) Route 277 from Double Church Road to Warrior Drive Jubal Early Drive Extension and Interchange with Route 37 Intersection of Crestleigh Drive and Senseny Road Apple Valley Road/Route 11 Intersection Improvements Back Mountain Road Safety Improvements Route 11 at Old Charlestown Road Intersection Improvements Warrior Drive extension to Brandy Lane and Brandy Lane upgrade Route 11 From Opecluon Church to the City of Winchester upgrade THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 48 The Inta-s .81 mrridm is designated corridor of sla[ewide signifionre as pursuant of VA code 15.2 Eastern Road Plan - July 2021 •�\�• New Major Arterial Improved Major Arterial •�\ • New Minor Arterial `0 Improved Minor Arterial •!i—• New Major Collector Improved Major Collector New Minor Collector Improved Minor Collector 0-\_, Ramp �i Roundabout Trails '0.,.Future Rt 37 Bypass •-$Urban Development Area Sewer and Water Service Area (7� Rural Community Center a c 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map T2^ Draft � n l 0 0.5 1 2 Miles The 1 -s 181 —id- is designated m hk, Msbtewide significance as W-- of VA code 15.2 - 2232. Eastern Road Plan Cross Sections ON.* R 4 D ^OU2 0'%®U4D I U6D 'a Future Rt 37 Bypass * . Urban Development Area Sewer and Water Service Area Rural Community Center 66 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map Draft _, ^i Expressway ^O Interstate 01%.0 Major Arterial ^O Minor Arterial ***,o Major Collector ONO Minor Collector -\— Local Rd tional •-%Urban Development Area Sewer and Water Service Area Rural Community Center C)George Washington National Forest c 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map Draft Thein Wd- 81 corridor iig'if n_ 2.5 S Miles mrt fVAfsbtewide si2111. rP as �YryJ pursuantof Vi] -de 15.2 - 2232 is i Route 11 tute 11 ;harlestown Rd restlegh Dr nowden Bridge Blvd Ln to City of Winchester `v# Keallgnment of 1-81 Kamp to Kedbud KO Warrior Dr Extension to Brandy Ln & Brandy Ln Upgrade Valley Mill Rd Relocation (East & West) Back Mountain Rd Safety Improvements Route 11 North Route 37 Route 277 from Double Church Rd to Warrior Dr Renaissance Dr c o 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map Draft The ln[a-sYa[e 8l corridor is designated mrridor of statewide signifimnm as 0 0.5 1 Z Miles pursuant of VA mde 15.2 - 2232. �� PUBLIC FACILITIES VI. PUBLIC FACILITIES THE 293r3 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 53 PUBLIC FACILITIES PUBLIC FACILITIES INTRODUCTION Eli eetien feF the f t .r The purpose of the Public Facilities Chapter is to plan for future public facilities and infrastructure needed to serve existing and planned population growth through the efficient, safe, and accessible delivery of public services. The planning and siting of public facilities should be in a manner that will efficiently and economically serve the greatest number of residents. New facilities should be located within the County's Urban Development Area (UDA), where future growth is desired; such facilities shall also generally be included in the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). Collaboration between County agencies should continue to be a priority goal in order to ensure that the investment made in the County's community facilities will continue to provide the best possible environment for positive and vibrant community growth. Multiple use/satellite public facilities should be developed wherever such facilities would make the delivery of services more efficient. The Public Facilities Chapter is divided into several sections based on the department responsible for providing that facility or service. The sections are: • FREDERICK COUNTY GOVERNMENT SERVICES • FREDERICK COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS (FOPS) • FREDERICK COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION • HANDLEY REGIONAL LIBRARY • FREDERICK COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICES • WINCHESTER REGIONAL AIRPORT • FREDERICK WATER • BROADBAND AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 54 PUBLIC FACILITIES THE 293r3 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 55 PUBLIC FACILITIES FREDERICK COUNTY GOVERNMENT SERVICES CURRENT CONDITIONS Many of the County's departments are located in the County Administration Building at 107 North Kent Street, Winchester; public safety agencies are located at the Frederick County Public Safety Center at 1080 Coverstone Drive, Winchester. The County has also recently acquired the former Sunnyside Plaza Shopping Center. This facility is planned to help meet the need for increased office space, meeting space, and governmental services in an accessible location. FOCUS FOR THE FUTURE Frederick County government shall continue to provide accessible, effective, and high-quality government services to its citizens, business owners, and community partners. Community facilities providing administrative and judicial services shall be located in urban areas which may include the County's Urban Development Area, Sewer and Water Service Area, and/or areas identified as future Urban Centers. The County should strive to improve access to government services through a variety of creative and proactive approaches. Advances in technology should be embraced to further to advance the availability of government services. Projects aimed at enhancing the County's ability to provide accessible, effective, and high-quality services, either by Frederick County or through partnerships with private entities should also be considered. COMMUNITY BENEFITS Proper planning and land use policies enable the County to identify where future growth should be accommodated. By planning for this growth, we are better able to identify and provide for infrastructure and services in areas where they can reach the majority of the population. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 56 PUBLIC FACILITIES GOALS/STRATEGIES GOAL: IMPROVE SERVICES TO CITIZENS THROUGH THE EFFICIENT PROVISIONS OF FOR COMMUNITY FACILITIES. STRATEGIES: • County government facilities seFViees should be provided in a manner that ensures that all as needed t6 pFeVide citizens, business owners, and community partners have with accessible geveffingent services. • Community facilities should generally be located within urban areas such as the County's Urban Development Area, Sewer and Water Service Area, and/or areas identified as future Urban Centers. • Community facilities should serve as community focal points. • Collaboration between County agencies should eentinHe te be a priority, geal as to ensure that the County can provide the best possible environment for positive and vibrant community growth. Multiple use/satellite public facilities should be developed wherever such facilities would make the delivery of services more efficient. • Encourage collaboration with the private sector to provide integrated infrastructure in the most efficient way possible. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 57 PUBLIC FACILITIES FREDERICK COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS (FCPS) CURRENT CONDITIONS Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) is the 20 nth largest of 4-34 132school systems in the Commonwealth of Virginia, vvithjHs serving over 13,600 13,246 -students in the 2916- 201:7 2020-2021 school year. With over 2,300 2,199 full time employees, Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS) is one of they largest employer in the Winchester -Frederick County area. The school district has -14 12 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, 3 high schools, 1 career & technical center, and participates in Northwest Regional Educational Programs, an alternative education center. Support facilities include the administration building, the maintenance/warehouse facility, the Transportation Facility, the Sn9ithfield faeolity, and Support Facilities West. There are a total of 25 schools and support facilities operated by FCPS. In the past ten years, FCPS has constructed -4 3 new schools the Transportation Facility ander 4 school additions/renovations. Residential growth continues to impact the school system as additional homes are built throughout the County. During the past several decades, the total student enrollment in the school division has increased steadily. Student enrollment has grown by 650 490 students in the past ten years. emerge Seventy-four percent of the class of 2916 2020 planned to continue their education. FCPS on-time graduation rate for the ''�Q 2019-2020 school year was 93-.-5%, compared to the state's 91.3 92.3%. FOCUS FOR THE FUTURE The establishment of new community facilities creates opportunities to improve the quality of the surrounding community. Schools in particular through the incorporation of Neighborhood Design can serve as the focal point for Neighborhood Villages and Urban Centers within the UDA and Rural Community Centers in the Rural Areas. Opportunities to co -locate schools with other community facilities should be sought. Several schools currently have Parks & Recreation Basic Rec programs within them. This program should be considered for new schools. Other Parks & Recreation programs could be co -located with schools. Schools should be located in existing or future neighborhoods, within walking distance and be accessible to residents. They act as neighborhood anchors and community centers. Well planned school sites, by encouraging walking and bicycling, can improve student health and academic performance and reduce traffic around schools. A good example of community - centered school planning can be found around Greenwood Mill Elementary School, the County's 11 t" elementary school. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 58 PUBLIC FACILITIES COMMUNITY BENEFITS it as the Rgissieig e Frederick County Public Schools' (FCPS) vision is to be an innovate community where caring relationships and authentic learning inspire all students. e1q5HFe all The Frederick County Public Schools community nurtures all learners to realize their dreams and aspirations through: • Meaningful and engaging learning experiences • A collective responsibility for continuous growth • Embracing a culture of diversity and inclusiveness • Fostering and supporting innovative ideas that challenge conventional thinking • A commitment to forward -thinking learning environments FCPS promises each and every student learning experience grounded in high expectations, personalized to student needs and interests, tailored to inspire passion and challenge thinking, and backed by necessary learning supports today, so that each and every student is ready to pursue the dreams and opportunities of tomorrow. FCPS is a learning organization where students and staff thrive in safe, supportive, nurturing environments, motivated by a culture of continuous growth so that each and every student becomes a contributing citizen in our global society. FCPS will support students and staff through meaningful, authentic learning experiences and a focus on overall well-being by cultivating strategic, purposeful partnerships with community members, organizations, and families. FCPS will be recognized as the preferred school community for individuals who are high achieving, compassionate, committed to continuous improvement, and who are inspired and inspire others. THE 293r3 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 59 PUBLIC FACILITIES GOALS/STRATEGIES Each local school board in Virginia is required by State Code to adopt a division wide comprehensive plan. Accordingly, the Frederick County Public Schools Division Comprehensive Plan, Inspire 2020, A Promise for Progress, is the document that governs the future direction of FCPS. Long-range school planning documents that are developed under the umbrella of the Division Comprehensive Plan include curriculum improvement plans, school improvement plans, a technology plan, enrollment projections, a capital improvement plan, and a staffing projection plan. the FGPS 90V050619 G6H9PFeI9ei9sive Plan 2914 29. Please FefeF t6 that Plan feF the eff GOALS: CONSIDER THE SURROUNDING NEIGHBORHOOD VILLAGES, URBAN CENTERS, AND RURAL COMMUNITIES; SITE LOCATION, SITE SUITABILITY, PROGRAM DESIGN, AND THE NEEDS OF OTHER AGENCIES IN LOCATING NEW FACILITIES. STRATEGIES: • In evaluating potential school facility locations, consider the role of the site in building diverse, walkable communities in the UDA. • In evaluating potential school facility locations, consider each location relative to arterial roads, planned roadways, the SWSA, the UDA, surrounding neighborhoods, floodplains, Civil War battlefields, and Agricultural and Forestal Districts. Also consider surrounding land uses, and potential environmental hazards. • In evaluating individual candidate sites, consider each site's zoning, planned land use, topography relative to program requirements, historical features, water features, wetlands, potential environmental hazards, geology, soil suitability, and tree cover. Also consider constraints contained in the site's deed and plat and the potential for the presence of rare, threatened, and endangered species. • Purchase sites that are suitable for co -locating school facilities with facilities other agencies have identified in their CIP or other studies if doing so does not interfere with FCPS' educational mission and is a responsible use of public funds. Future school sites have the potential to be collocated with future fire and rescue stations, parks, community centers, libraries, convenience sites, and satellite offices for several County Departments. Additionally, future school sites could become part of the network of properties needed to execute the Eastern Road Plan. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 60 School Names 0 Northwestern Regional Education Program (NAEP) 1 Dowell J. Howard Center 2 Admiral Richard E. Byrd Middle School 3 Frederick County Middle School 4 James Wood Middle School 5 Robert E. Aylor Middle School 6 James Wood High School 7 Millbrook High School 8 Sherando High School 9 Anne] Elementary 10 Bass - Hoover Elementary 11 Evendale Elementary 12 Apple Pie Ridge Elementary 13 Gainesboro Elementary 14 Indian Hollow Elementary 15 Middletown Elementary 16 Orchard View Elementary 17 Redbud Run Elementary Reynolds Sto re 18 Senseny Road School (NREP) 127 19 Stonewall Elementary 20 Shenandoah University Cross 21 Lord Fairfax Community College 22 Greenwood Mill Elementary_ Junction 23 Jordan Springs Elementary 0 Current School Loca QPotential New Schoo %. : Urban Development tions I Locations Area 50 Go re 259' Potential New School Gainesboro 0 OV 0 0.5 1 2 3 4 5 6 I I I I I I I Miles Locations Clear Broo 19 Stephenson Albin to 0 •- i • Round Hill O •. and 50 ; O •� Middle U V`♦• School 45 W I � Multi -Use Campus � •♦ ♦�• �� Elementary School ♦� • 22 16 50 Elementary School V • High ©�1 •1 • School 4 4 i OArmel • 277 Elementary School 22 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft PUBLIC FACILITIES FREDERICK COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION CURRENT CONDITIONS Facilities Frederick County has four classifications of parks including Greenways (linear parks), Neighborhood, Community, and District Parks. The classification depends on the size, service area, purpose, character, and location of the property. The County currently has two district, two community, and three neighborhood parks. Additionally, a community park is planned on 25 acres on Old Charlestown Road in the Stonewall District and the County is beginning development of a Greenway trail along Abrams Creek in the eastern part of the County. The two district parks, Clearbrook and Sherando, currently serve the County's population with active and passive recreational programs and facilities. Clearbrook Park is located five miles north of Winchester on Route 11 and encompasses 44 acres of land surrounding a 3.5 -acre lake. Sherando Park, located two miles east of Stephens City on Route 277, includes 334 acres of varied open and forested land and a diverse array of recreation facilities. Community parks include Rose Hill Park in the Back Creek District and Stonewall Park in the Stonewall District. Rose Hill Park is located 1/3 mile south of the intersection of Cedar Creek Grade and Jones Road offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy the historic and scenic features of the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley's Rose Hill Farm. Stonewall Park on Stephenson Road is developed for active recreation and has five diamond ball fields for use. The three neighborhood parks include space at the Reynolds Store Fire Company, Frederick Heights Park near Senseny Road, and County owned property behind the Bowman Library where the department has constructed a walking trail around a lake and has plans to develop an amphitheater for community use. Master development plans were adopted for both THE 293r3 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 62 PUBLIC FACILITIES Clearbrook and Sherando Parks establishing a development vision for each park based on identified recreational needs. Parks and Recreation Master Plan The Parks and Recreation Master Plan was adopted in 2018 and outlines both long- and medium-term goals and strategies. Master Plan goals align with the Comprehensive Plan goals listed above and provide strategies and action steps for the department to pursue. The Parks and Recreation Master Plan is available on the Parks and Recreation website for reference. FOCUS FOR THE FUTURE To meet the future service demands on the County's two district parks, the Parks and Recreation Department intends to continue implementing the improvements adopted in the park Master Plans and in the Capital Improvement Plan. Additionally, new Neighborhood or Community Parks and usable open spaces should be located within the Urban Development Area (UDA), located near areas planned for future residential land uses, Neighborhood Villages and Urban Centers or within designated Rural Community Centers. The construction of additional trails throughout the community is also important. Trails are highly desired recreation facilities for county residents and provide the ability to travel safely from homes to schools, stores, work, or recreation areas without having to share roadways with vehicle traffic. Frederick County is fortunate to have multiple entities providing publicly accessible land citizens can use for recreation and leisure purposes. Frederick County currently manages 430 acres of park land and 340 acres of other school and county owned properties. While new park land locations are identified, there is significant development potential on existing County THE 293-r3 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 63 PUBLIC FACILITIES owned park areas as almost half of these acres are yet to be developed for recreation purposes. Frederick County is fortunate to have within its jurisdictional boundary thousands of acres of publicly accessible land provided by Federal, State, school system and non-profit entities. Additionally, adjoining jurisdictions allow Frederick County residents the use of their facilities. In combination the County and other publicly accessible lands and facilities provide the array of current conditions from which remaining needs are determined. COMMUNITY BENEFITS The Frederick County Parks and Recreation Department is building a sense of community through people, parks, and recreational opportunities benefitting all residents. Parks and recreation activities stimulate economic activity and property values are increased by proximity to parks and through the added quality of life and sense of community. Families and organizations alike look to Frederick County Parks and Recreation to meet their leisure needs. Approximately 1.5 million recreational contact hours for youth, senior, and family programs are provided through programs offered by or facilitated through Frederick County Parks and Recreation with nearly two-thirds of Frederick County households reporting they use Parks and Recreation services and facilities On the past yeaF. Nearly '/2 million visits are counted at the two District Parks alone on an annual basis. GOALS/STRATEGIES GOAL: CONTRIBUTE TO THE PHYSICAL, MENTAL, AND CULTURAL NEEDS OF THE COMMUNITY; ITS ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL WELL-BEING, AND ITS SENSE OF CIVIC PRIDE AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY THROUGH THE IMPLEMENTATION OF AN INTEGRATED PLAN FOR RECREATION PROGRAMS AND PARK FACILITIES. STRATEGIES: • Maintain a County -wide recreation plan which identifies recreational, park, trial, bikeway, and open space needs. • Identify recreation needs associated with the Rural Community Centers. • Continue to utilize State and Federal grants and as needed pursue voter -approved bond financing for capital projects approved in the Capital Improvement Plan. • Continue to expand our cooperative relationship with the Frederick County School Board in jointly meeting identified County recreational needs. • Review land development regulations to ensure that appropriate standards are provided for open space recreational facilities in new developments. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 64 PUBLIC FACILITIES GOAL: TO HAVE EVERY RESIDENT OF FREDERICK COUNTY'S URBAN DEVELOPMENT AREA (UDA) WITHIN WALKING OR BIKING DISTANCE OF A RECREATION AREA. STRATEGIES: • I nventory the County's natural and environmental resources to identify appropriate locations for greenways, community and neighborhood aigEl,;,nri parks including connectivity consistent with the 2014 Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. • Strategically locate parks in or near Neighborhood Villages and Urban Centers to meet population -based needs. Parks should be carefully planned to respect and take advantage of natural and historic resources as well as to enhance the natural, scenic, and cultural value of the urban areas of the County. • Ensure that Elevelepn9ent recreation and open space requirements for residential developments are adequate. • Actively pursue parkland in areas where publicly accessible land does not or is not anticipated to meet citizen needs. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 65 Existing County Parks 4W District Park Community Park ® Neighborhood Park Publically Accessible Land Federal 4W State 4W Battlefield 4W Non -Profit 4W Local Park ,e.. Tuscarora Trail 4W School 0 Public Boat Launch Urban Development Area Proposed Parks Q District Community Neighborhood Or+xi Abrams Creek Trail Potential New .", County Park Reynolds Sto re q � J Cross Junction , zz ' Gbinesboro •r 7 55 Sta r 0 0.5 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Miles L Locations Rose Hill Park cfcr _Wt- N 1 J Sherando Park N tClear Brook O Clearbrook i Park r Stephenson Old Charlleesttoown Road l l Park +'0 'N E Frederick Heights Parke lletown _ CO� 000, 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Draft PUBLIC FACILITIES HANDLEY LIBRARY CURRENT CONDITIONS The goal of the Handley Regional Library System is to be a resource to the communities they serve by creating connections to information and entertainment and being the center of learning. Currently the Handley Regional Library System has one library in each jurisdiction served. As population grows in Frederick County, the demand for library services also continues to increase gra. Each library in the Handley Regional Library system functions as a community center, a search engine, and a place that welcomes everyone to lifelong learning. Frederick County's larger population and land area mean that there are FFe 'ee, portions of the County that are not well served by the Winchester or Stephens City branches '. FOCUS FOR THE FUTURE As the residential population in Frederick County continues to grow the Library System has plans for opening new facilities. Within the next five yea he Library Board plans for -a future libraries to open in the Gainesboro area, Senseny/Greenwood area and the Route 522/Justus Drive area. The inclusion of small library branches that can offer delivery of materials from anywhere in the system as well as providing information and training to customers about new online services should +also be+rrg considered. COMMUNITY BENEFIT . With easy access to computer workstations, libraries are a primary source of technology services and resources to County residents, especially those who may lack such access in their homes. Ideal locations for new libraries would be within close proximity to residential uses, schools and commercial uses. GOALS/STRATEGIES GOAL: LIBRARY USERS ON TO NE FUTURE., PROVIDE ADEQUATE LIBRARY SERVICES TO MEET THE NEEDS OF THE CURRENT AND FUTURE RESIDENTS. STRATEGIES: • The Handley Regional Library Board will review and update its long-range plan for facilities growth, using the criteria of cost, need, safety, and proximity to the greatest number of residents. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 67 PUBLIC FACILITIES Continue to monitor the growth throughout the County to determine where new library facilities are needed. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 68 PUBLIC FACILITIES FREDERICK COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICES CURRENT CONDITIONS As residential and commercial developments continue to locate and expand in Frederick County, there will be an increased need for emergency services `iFe and Fele. e statmens to provide services to protect the citizens and transient population. Emergency services are provided by The Frederick County Fire and Rescue Department, The Sheriff's Office, and the Department of Public Safety Communications. These three departments are located at the Frederick County Public Safety Center. The HItiRgate goal of the fire and rescue system is to provide the most efficient fire and rescue services Countywide. Responses include, but are not limited to, emergency medical services, fire suppression, rescue, hazardous -materials, svvm e;--re5eae, teeIgnmeal Fe5eue5, and igat Fal E105a5te~Sspecial services and emergency management. The Department is made up of the Operations Division, Training Division, Fire and Life Safety Division, Emergency Management Division, and the Fire Marshal's Office. The Fire and Rescue Department consists of eleven volunteer fire and rescue companies. The Department has career personnel assigned to all eleven stations, which are staffed 24 hours a day. Volunteer personnel staff their stations when available. FOCUS FOR THE FUTURE Future challenges for the Fire and Rescue Department include developing additional fire and rescue stations to meet future growth within the County and keeping up with the staffing needs to continue to provide quality and timely service `e the eitiz,.ns. Planning for future fire and rescue station locations and equipment needs must be accomplished by developing a five-year strategic plan. This plan will identify future fire and rescue station sites and equipment needs based on projected service demands and response times. The plan will encourage the dedication of sites for new fire and rescue stations within the identified areas during the rezoning process. Non-residential areas such as retail, office, and industrial areas require increased fire protection because specialized equipment is necessary to ensure safety for these land uses. Other land uses identified as target hazards continue to grow. These include land uses such as schools, nursing homes, daycare centers, and industrial facilities. These land uses have a higher risk of injury due to the specific demographics of person utilizing these facilities. Existing road conditions, primarily those with gravel or dirt surfaces and horizontal and vertical curvatures, located outside of the county's Urban Development Area (UDA) create longer response times. The greatest factor contributing to the need for new fire and rescue stations is the rapid population growth and increases in dwelling units within the County. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 69 PUBLIC FACILITIES COMMUNITY BENEFITS The development of new fire and rescue stations could provide an opportunity to extend satellite services provided by other County Departments and agencies. Allocation of space could be created within new fire and rescue stations for community services provided by the Sheriff's Office, the Treasurer's Office, the Voter Registrar's Office, and the Commission of the Revenue's Office, to provide the residents of Frederick County more accessible options for government services. Locations for future facilities are encouraged within the UDA and Rural Community Centers. GOALS/STRATEGIES GOAL: WHEN PLANNING NEW FACILITIES, CONSIDER SITE LOCATION, SITE SUITABILITY, BUILDING DESIGN, AND CONSTRUCTION TIMING. STRATEGIES: • Co -locate fire and rescue stations with other County facilities and agencies for maximum efficiency. • Construct fire and rescue stations at strategic locations throughout the County to help achieve desired response times to all emergency calls and increase the level of service. Locate fire and rescue stations with easy access to a major arterial or at an intersection of two major arteries to gain both east -west and north -south access. • Locate fire and rescue stations on sites of between two and five acres to allow for future expansion. Sites may be smaller when developed as part of a Neighborhood Design in an Urban Center or Neighborhood Village. • Select and design sites to minimize the adverse impact of sirens and other noise on residential areas. • Investigate the need for a Regional Public Safety Training Center as the demands for public safety related training increase and existing facilities age. • Continue working towards replacing the County's public safety communication system. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 70 PUBLIC FACILITIES WINCHESTER REGIONAL AIRPORT CURRENT CONDITIONS The Winchester Regional Airport is recognized as an important component of the County's Business Development efforts. Therefore, the Plan designates an Airport Support Area for the Winchester Regional Airport Commercial, and industrial uses should be the primary land uses in the Airport Support Area; these planned land uses are further outlined in Appendix I. The Airport Support Area is an area in which further residential rezonings will be prohibited Conflicts between airports and residential development can be significant in growing communities. Residents of areas in the vicinity of the airport tend to oppose airport operations aetivities and the expansion of such operations awes because of concern for noise increased aircraft activity. The Airport Support Area was also established to ensure the feasibility ef continued operational viability of the airport Hse, -ate support future airport expansion, and t-l=�e facilitate implementation of the Comprehensive Plan and Airport Master Plan. FOCUS FOR THE FUTURE There is a need to continue to implement the Airport Support Area expectations. BHs;,;ess Commercial and industrial uses should be the primary uses in the airport support area; residential rezoning's will be prohibited. The Capital Improvement Plan will continue to be a key tool that will facilitate the growth and development of the airport. Rengamiging Key capital projects include the acquisition ofd property and easements necessary to protect the approach and departure surfaces of the runway and future growth, relocation of the primary parallel taxiway, replacement of the main aircraft parking apron, development of the northeFn side of the runway, and replacement of the terminal building al9d e6195tFH6tiE)19 E)f a19 aiFffaF+ COMMUNITY BENEFITS Through the support of the Winchester Regional Airport Authority's member jurisdictions, the Airport will continue to ,._•te be a modern, first class air transportation facility that accommodates a multitude of aeronautical functions that serve the public good, supports local employers, and attracts new attFa6+;ffi of i9ew 019EIHStFoal and aI businesses to the region. GOALS/STRATEGIES Specific Goals and Strategies relating to the Winchester Regional Airport are contained in Chapter 4 — Business Development. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 71 Airport Support Area PUBLIC FACILITIES FREDERICK WATER CURRENT CONDITIONS The Sewer and Water Service Area (SWSA) is an important policy tool used by Frederick County to determine where public water and sewer service may be provided. The Board of Supervisors approves the location of the Urban Development Area (UDA) and SWSA boundaries through the adoption of the Comprehensive Plan and amendments thereto. As a result, properties located within the SWSA may enjoy access to public water and sewer. Frederick Water has the primary responsibility to manage the provision of water and sewer services in Frederick County. Other public entities may serve properties within Frederick County, if approved by the Board of Supervisors; this is the case in some areas adjacent to the City of Winchester and in the vicinity of the Town of Middletown and the Town of Stephens City. The Middletown/Lord Fairfax and Middletown/Reliance Road Area Plans established Sewer and Water Service Areas (SWSA) with the express stipulation that the Frederick Water will be the party responsible for providing water and sewer in this area. This may be done in cooperation with those adjacent public entities. Water and Sewer Services The location of public sewer and water lines within the Urban Development Area (UDA) and SWSA determines where urban development can occur. The UDA defines the general area in which more intensive forms of residential development can occur. Commercial, industrial, and institutional land uses are also encouraged within the UDA. The SWSA is consistent with the UDA in many locations. However, the SWSA may extend beyond the UDA to promote commercial, industrial, and institutional land uses in areas where residential land uses are not desirable. It is the clear policy of the Comprehensive Plan that extensions of sewer and water service will be within the boundaries of the UDA and SWSA. The extension service into areas outside of those boundaries will require an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan. All sewer and water mains extended shall be publicly owned. Frederick Water has the responsibility for the treatment, transmission, and distribution of potable water and the collection and `r.,f,.ffiiSS: conveyance of wastewater. Most of the sewer and water mains and laterals in the County are owned, operated, and maintained by Frederick Water. Frederick County and Frederick Water have executed a Facilities Planning Agreement which sets forth procedures for the planning of sewer and water mains in the County. The agreement includes: provisions for adopting a water and sewer facilities plan as a part of the Comprehensive Plan; specifies the location of water and sewer mains over eight inches in size; provides for review and update of the plan and for including sewer and water facilities projects in the Frederick County Capital Improvements Plan. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 73 PUBLIC FACILITIES The City of Winchester owns and maintains sewer and water lines in portions of the County adjacent to the City corporate limits. Such lines have been extended into the County following a previous agreement between the City and the County, and often predate Frederick Water's ability to provide said services. The Frederick County Board of Supervisors prefer that all future water and sewer services in the County be provided by Frederick Water. Wastewater Facilities The Frederick -Winchester Service Authority (FWSA) provides wastewater treatment service for Frederick Water toe FG-S/k and the City of Winchester. The FWSA currently owns the Opequon Water Reclamation Facility, the Parkins Mill Wastewater Treatment Plant and the Crooked Run Wastewater Treatment Plant and has operational agreements with the City and Frederick Water t-l=�e l GSA for wastewater treatment plant theeFF operations. The City operates and maintains the Opequon Facility while th►e Frederick Water Salgitatien AHth6FiVYF is responsible for operation and maintenance of the Parkins Mill and Crooked Run Facilities. Treatment of wastewater generated from within the County's Sewer and Water Service Area (SWSA) is undertaken at all plants. The Opequon Service Area is comprised of the Abrams Creek drainage area which includes the City of Winchester and adjacent drainage areas located east, west and north of the City of Winchester. The Parkins Mill Wastewater Treatment Plant serves Frederick Water customers located in the upper Opequon Creek, Wrights Run, and Stephens Run drainage areas along with the Town of Stephens City. The Crooked Run Service Area services the Lake Frederick/Shenandoah Community in southeastern Frederick County. The Opequon Water Reclamation Facility presently has a treatment capacity of 12.6 million gallons per day. The Parkins Mill Wastewater Treatment Plant which has a treatment capacity of 5.0 million gallons per day. In .,dditien, the The Crooked Run Wastewater Treatment Facility opened in support of the Lake Frederick development and has an ultimate capacity of 0.626 million gallons per day, with a current treatment capacity of 9.376 0.25 million gallons per day. Water Facilities Frederick Water e TLSA manages a system with a water capacity of 7.42 Million Gallons per Day (MGD), with an average daily use of � 6.5 MGD. Various quarries provide the majority of the system's water supply, with an agreement with the City of Winchester supplementing the system with up to 2MGD. Two water treatment facilities are owned and operated by Frederick Water t-l=�e FG -S . The James H. Diehl Water Filtration Plant, put into operation 1994, treats up to 3 million gallons of water per day. Additional pumps can increase this capacity to 5 -MGD. The water sources +s include ground water pumped from Frederick Water owned quarries on the west side of Stephens City, and wells at Bartonsville and Orchard View Elementary School. The James T. Anderson Treatment Plant, opened in 2002, has an initial capacity of 4 MGD expandable to 6 MGD. The water source is a quarry in Clearbrook and nearby wells. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 74 PUBLIC FACILITIES In addition, the Authority has in operation two ei►e elevated tanks and three ground storage tanks with a total capacity of 4.�5 10 million gallons of system water storage. FOCUS FOR THE FUTURE The Frederick County Board of Supervisors establishes the framework for where development is to occur, and Frederick Water is tasked with accommodating and serving this new development. The Comprehensive Plan utilizes the UDA and SWSA to designate those areas that are envisioned to be developed within the next 20 years. Therefore, areas within the SWSA should be provided public water and sewer service over the next 20 years as development advances. Those areas identified with future land uses but are not presently within the SWSA are expected to develop over the next 20-40 years; public water and sewer should be planned to serve these future areas. It is the role of Frederick Water to plan for and accommodate sewer and water service to these areas of anticipated new growth and development. Historically, the County and Frederick Water t-l=�e FG -SA have collaborated on long range planning efforts, and this has previously been reflected in the Comprehensive Plan. Continued cooperation and collaboration between Frederick Water t4e F,4 and the Board of Supervisors is necessary in implementing the 2035 Comprehensive Plan. In addition, Frederick Water +4=�e F,4 should update its water and sanitary sewer master plans to reflect Frederick Water's toe TLS/ C current plans to service land inside the SWSA and to include an overview of their plans to service future land uses outside of the current SWSA boundary. Such -&-master plans should build upon the future water and sewer needs of the County and the Town of Stephens City, and guide the development and acquisition of water resources and wastewater treatment options. Frederick Water +4=�e FGS,4 should proactively identify major capital projects aimed at increasing the County's water supply or implementing the anticipated future land use plan. As noted in the Natural Resources Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan, water supply is critical to both the natural and built environment, and viable sources are essential for future economic development in the County. The future focus of Frederick Water t4e FGS,4 and County should continue to be to protect the water supply and to identify and secure viable sources of water for the future growth and development of the County. COMMUNITY BENEFIT Frederick Water is a non-profit organization whose mission statement is to provide affordable and reliable water and wastewater service to our customers while protecting public health and the environment. The ultimate benefit to the Community is significant and noted throughout this Plan. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 75 PUBLIC FACILITIES GOALS/STRATEGIES GOAL: PROTECT GROUNDWATER SOURCES AND THE AREAS THAT CONTRIBUTE RECHARGE TO ENSURE THAT ADEQUATE WATER SUPPLIES ARE MAINTAINED, AND WORK TOWARD DEVELOPING INCREASED WATER SUPPLIES TO MEET FUTURE NEEDS. STRATEGIES: • Frederick County and Frederick Water should continue to coordinate the planning of sewer and water facilities following the procedures described by the Facilities Planning Agreement. • The Frederick County Board of Supervisors, with the support Frederick Water T-I=�e should work with adjacent communities to evaluate regional water supply issues. As a result, a regional water supply partnership could be formed that would combine water resources and address water supply issues as one regional entity to ensure common goals. • Water and sewer service should be provided to service areas in the UDA and SWSA through an orderly process following the Facilities Planning Agreement and using the Capital Improvements Plan. GOAL: FACILITIES AND SERVICES SHOULD BE CAREFULLY PLANNED TO MEET PROJECTED NEEDS. APPROPRIATE SERVICES AND FACILITIES SHALL BE PROVIDED TO SERVE PLANNED LAND USES AND DEVELOPMENT. STRATEGIES: • Carefully monitor sewer and water use and develop up-to-date improvement plans for sewer and water facilities. • Develop and maintain formal and regular relationships and procedures between the County and providers of facilities and services, including Frederick Water t-l=te Sante may, the City of Winchester, the Frederick -Winchester Service Authority, and the Towns of Middletown and Stephens City. • Identify those areas in the SWSA that are better situated to be served with water and sewer and prioritize facility and infrastructure development to more effectively serve those areas and the SWSA. • Any sewer or water main eight inches in diameter or larger, extended or existing within an area proposed for inclusion within the SWSA or UDA, should be dedicated as a public line to be owned and maintained by Frederick Water the -;gin or City of Winchester when appropriate. • Plans for new facilities should be based on demand projections as derived from population projections in the Comprehensive Plan and from future land use plans which depict the planned future land uses that will accommodate the anticipated community THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 76 PUBLIC FACILITIES growth. • Together with the County and the City, Frederick Water and the Frederick -Winchester Service Authority should carefully plan needed sewage treatment capacity based on trends in usage. 6 4 2 0 PROJECTED WATER SUPPLY AND DEMAND CHART Projected Water Supply and Demand Projected Impoundmen Water Source _ Projected Surface Cover Well, Water Source Lake Frederick Well - 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 Water Demand - Projected Demand Water Supply + Projected Water Supply THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 77 Sewer and Water Service Area, Urban Development Area, & Water & Sewer Lines PUBLIC FACILITIES BROADBAND AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS CURRENT CONDITIONS Telecommunications continue to play a vital role in economic development and quality of life for residents of the County. The rural areas in particular have seen a shift towards greater demand from residents for access to internet service. While some areas of the County currently have access to fiber, cable, or powerline-based services, much of the County's rural areas are not served by broadband and must rely on satellite or tower -based providers. FOCUS FOR THE FUTURE The lack of broadband service can be a constraint on the rural economy and puts households and students at a disadvantage. There are numerous challenges to bringing high speed broadband services to the rural areas of Frederick County. With over 416 square miles, Frederick County has topographic conditions that range from mountainous areas to the rolling and flatter rural areas, posing problems for cell tower provision of services. The County should study ways to match demand for internet service with availability of service in rural or underserved areas. COMMUNITY BENEFITS Access to high-speed internet is important for a variety of reasons, accessibility for school age children, residents that operate home based businesses, cellular phone service and access for new public safety communication facilities. GOALS/STRATEGIES GOAL: PROMOTE THE DEVELOPMENT OF A HIGH-QUALITY WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS NETWORK THROUGHOUT THE COUNTY TO SERVE ITS RESIDENTS, WHILE PROTECTING THE COUNTY'S VISUAL LANDSCAPE, HISTORIC RESOURCES AND NATURAL RESOURCES. STRATEG I ES: Monitor broadband service coverage to ensure that as the county grows, adequate broadband services are provided to meet the needs of future residents and businesses. • Support and facilitate the development of high-speed wired and wireless telecommunication networks, including broadband technology, to support rural businesses and residents. Develop a broadband policy to reflect the County's need to have internet service speeds appropriate for educational, business, and residential purposes in all parts of the County. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 79 NATURAL RESOURCES V 1 1 . NATURAL RESOURCES THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 80 NATURAL RESOURCES NATURAL RESOURCES CURRENT CONDITIONS Frederick County's natural resources and geographic location has long influenced the County's history and settlement patterns. The last several decades has seen the community mature with a significant amount of residential and business growth. The greatest potential impact on our natural environment is the increasing population in the County which results in alteration of the land use. Conversion of land in the rural areas results in reduced open space and fragmentation of farm and forest lands. It can also disrupt natural and wildlife systems that help purify our air, recharge our groundwater and protect our local streams. Likewise, the denser growth in the UDA results in increased impervious surfaces which can impact naturalresources. -e=This chapter focuses on the following natural resources: • Water Supply and Water Quality • Sensitive Natural Areas • Agricultural and Forestal Areas • Stormwater Management • Erosion and Sediment Control • Green Infrastructure • Habitat Fragmentation and Environmental Corridors • Light and Noise Pollution FOCUS FOR THE FUTURE The intent of this Chapter is to provide guidance that the future of the County's natural resources is viable and balanced, and able to meet the needs of the present community and that of future residents. As the County continues to grow and develop we should ensure that the natural beauty is preserved, air and water qualities are protected, property values and quality of life are enhanced, and ecological diversity is maintained. COMMUNITY BENEFITS The preservation, maintenance and enhancement of the natural resources within Frederick County are important to the community for many reasons; they contribute to these whieh help sHp!364 the economic wealth, health of citizens, and the vitality of the County. The protection of natural resources helps preserve the e€the scenic quality residents and visitors enjoy, a supports native habitat and wildlife, and maintains biodiversity. Sound regulations on the part of the public and good practices on the part of the developer make for less costly public investment. New developments that protect the environment with quality systems present less cost to the County in the long term when maintenance may THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 81 NATURAL RESOURCES become a necessity. Recreational and aesthetic considerations are also part of our community resource management responsibilities. One focus of this Plan is to ensure that applications for development address environmental issues at the earliest planning phase. Projects that include components of green infrastructure can help foster community cohesiveness by engaging residents in the planning process. This Chapter defines those areas of the County that are sensitive and need to be preserved. WATER SUPPLY AND WATER QUALITY WATER SUPPLY Water supply is critical to both the natural and built environment, and viable sources are essential for future economic development in the County. There are no major rivers flowing through the County. The majority of the County contains small springs, seeps and headwater streams that contribute to three watersheds: the Opequon, Back Creek, and Cedar Creek. The County is within the larger Potomac River watershed, and ultimately the Chesapeake Bay watershed. The average flows from these streams within the County are marginal, and only GeEIar Gre the Opequon Creek has been mea perused as a supplemental source with withdrawals during peak flows. Frederick Water secured the necessary permits to utilize the Opequon Creek, and the withdrawal facilities will be constructed in the near future. With the exception of water purchased from the City of Winchester, which comes from the North Fork of the Shenandoah River, the County is elitiFely dependent on groundwater sources and the future Opequon Creek withdrawal. The most productive aquifers in the County are the limestone/carbonate aquifers. Ninety percent of the recharge areas for groundwater in Frederick County are located in the limestone -carbonate topography or karst areas (see map). As development continues to occur in this region it is important to consider the impacts to both groundwater recharge and the pollution of groundwater from stormwater runoff. These are complex issues that also have a connection to surface water and will be referenced further in the water quality section. Groundwater studies in conjunction the United States Geological Survey (USGS) Virginia Water Science Center should continue, and participation in a regional water authority should be investigated to ensure adequate water supplies are available for the future. GOALS/STRATEGIES GOAL: PROTECT GROUNDWATER SOURCES AND THE AREAS THAT CONTRIBUTE RECHARGE (OR RESUPPLY OF WATER) TO ENSURE THAT ADEQUATE WATER SUPPLIES ARE MAINTAINED AND CONTINUE WORK TOWARD DEVELOPING INCREASED WATER SUPPLIES TO MEET FUTURE NEEDS. STRATEGIES: Regional water supplies should be investigated. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 82 NATURAL RESOURCES • Groundwater recharge areas should be identified and protected. Protecting recharge areas can be accomplished through both technology options and reduced land disturbance practices during building and construction activities. • Water conservation and efficiency practices should be encouraged and practiced throughout the County. • Development within the limestone/carbonate geology should be limited and optimally these areas should be placed in conservation easements or preserved through the Transfer or Purchase of Development Rights (TDR and PDR) programs. • Support implementation strategies identified by Frederick Water's Source Water Protection Plan. WATER QUAL I TY Land use and development activities have the potential to impact the ecological quality of streams and water bodies through the direct transport of pathogens and pollutants. Hydrologic changes can alter the character of flow in streams, resulting in alterations to stream morphology, such as increasing stream bank erosion, increased high-flow events and more critically low flows during low -flow periods. Unlike point source pollution, which comes from a defined permitted source like industrial and sewage treatment plants, nonpoint source pollution (NPS) comes from many different and diffuse sources. NPS occurs when runoff from rainfall and snowmelt cause erosion and wash various pollutants from the land into our local waterways and potentially into our local waterways. In addition, these pollutants can also enter the groundwater via karst recharge, without the benefit of any natural filtration or dilution. This is a significant issue, as most of the surface streams and rivers in the region are dependent on groundwater recharge for their base flow, rather than surface runoff. Many of the streams/creeks in Frederick County are on the State's impaired waterways list, and warrant future efforts to improve water quality. Volunteer efforts are underway to correct such situations. Residential uses in the rural areas are typically served by individual onsite sewage disposal systems. (drainfields). When not properly maintained, these systems can become a source of water pollution. Private on-site sewage disposal these systems are regulated by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH). Package treatment plant sewer systems, which are regulated by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), are designed to serve more than one use paFtieular Elevelepn9ents. Package plants should only be allowed in areas planned for more intensive residential development, such as in the Rural Community Centers. Where such systems are allowed, they should be dedicated to a public authority or sanitary district to ensure that the facilities are properly operated. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 83 NATURAL RESOURCES GOALS/STRATEGIES GOAL: PROTECT GROUND AND SURFACE WATER QUALITY. STRATEGIES: • Watershed management throughout the County should encourage forested or vegetated streamside buffers to filter pollutants, stabilize stream banks and provide wildlife habitat. • The types of onsite sewage disposal systems permitted in the County need to be managed to insure proper location, installation, operation, maintenance and inspection. • Special emphasis should be placed on utilizing state and federal cost share programs specifically funded to address water quality in the Opequon Creek watershed and other environmentally sensitive areas. Work with local community and non-profit organizations to promote agricultural best management practices. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 84 r ''•� a CShawneeland r4 l xr star Tam ery �i f.I 0 0.5 1 2 3 4 5 6 I I I I I I I Miles r amewom Major 1 Abrams Creek Watershed 2 Back Creek 3 Buffalo Lick Run 11 4 Cedar Creek 5 Clearbrook - Hot Run Drainages 6 Duncan Run 7 Hiatt Run 11 8 Redbud Run 9 Senseny Area CReynoIds Store 10 Shenandoah Tributaries 11 Sleepy Creek tephenson 12 Stephens Run 13 Sulphur Springs 14 Upper Opequon 127 15 Wrights Run 16 Opequon Tributary 1 17 Opequon Tributary 2 r Jundion '�. Streams Q Watershed Boundary r ''•� a CShawneeland r4 l xr star Tam ery �i f.I 0 0.5 1 2 3 4 5 6 I I I I I I I Miles r amewom 6 m CClear 11 5 tephenson CAlbin ,, 7 Round Hill J) 1 _-_ (T 9 _ `' 13 ED 3 50 14 112 7 15 277 z2 C el 10 SC:1� „ CpG 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Draft NATURAL RESOURCES SENSITIVE NATURAL AREAS Sensitive natural areas encompass various resources in the County, such as floodplains, steep slopes, karst terrain, and agricultural areas. This section describes the importance of these sensitive natural areas to Frederick County. These resources are further identified and integrated into the small area land use plans contained within the Comprehensive Policy Plan. FLOODPLAINS & DAM BREAK INUNDATION ZONES Floodplains provide a necessary interface between land and water. Floodplains by definition store water and accommodate fluctuations in stream volume during heavy rains and can become flooded. Floodplains provide essential environmental benefits such as reducing peak flows and improving water quality. Encroachment of development into floodplains removes those benefits as well as increasing the impact on life, health and property. Regulations to protect floodplains and waterways from disturbance are included in the County's Zoning Ordinance. Floodplain areas have been generally identified in studies conducted by the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA). Detailed maps produced by FEMA show floodways, as well as 100 and 500 -year floodplains. The Code of Virginia requires localities to identify and study dam break inundation zones within the community and their potential impacts. A dam break inundation zone refers to the area downstream of a dam that would be inundated or otherwise directly affected by the failure of a dam. These dams (or impounding structures) are man-made structures utilized to retain or store water. When referring to inundation zones, the term includes: (i)all dams that are 25 feet or greater in height and that create an impoundment capacity of 15 acre-feet or greater, and (ii) all dams that are six feet or greater in height and that create an impoundment capacity of 50 acre-feet or greater. Dams that meet these specifications are classified as either low hazard, significant hazard or high hazard based on the impact should the dam fail. There are 11 dams in Frederick County which are permitted by the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). STEEP SLOPES Areas of steep slopes are located throughout the County, predominately in the mountainous areas, stream valleys and drainage areas. Steep sloped areas are often susceptible to erosion. The amount that may occur varies according to the amount and intensity of precipitation, slope steepness and length, vegetated cover and the soil type and erodibility. Clearing steeply sloped areas can exacerbate erosion of soil and increase stormwater runoff resulting in increased siltation and sedimentation. Careful consideration should be given to avoid concentrated runoff when impervious surfaces are located close to steep slopes. Minimal disturbance of natural vegetative cover, in particular forest cover should be encouraged versus replant requirements. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 86 NATURAL RESOURCES KARST TERRAIN The central geophysical area of Frederick County is underlain by a band of carbonate bedrock consisting of limestone and/or dolomite and is identified as karst terrain. Karst terrain is characterized by the presence of sinkholes, surface depressions, caves, large springs, and a highly irregular, pinnacled bedrock -soil interface. Karst terrain is inherently unstable and susceptible to subsidence and surface collapse. As a result, the alteration of drainage patterns in these areas by the placement of impervious coverage, grade changes, or increased run-off from site changes can lead to sinking of land levels and sinkholes. It is important to realize that the most of the water recharge area for the drinking water for the County is located in the karst terrain. Groundwater supplies in these areas are particularly susceptible to contamination from surface activities. Fractures, fissures and solution openings in the bedrock may connect to public or private water supplies such as wells and springs, making those sources especially susceptible to groundwater contamination. GOALS/STRATEGIES GOAL: APPROPRIATELY MANAGE IDENTIFIED SENSITIVE NATURAL AREAS AND IDENTIFY AREAS THAT COULD BE IMPACTED BY INUNDATION ZONES. STRATEGIES: • Protect floodplains and steep slopes from unsuitable uses and continue to recognize their value for stormwater management and ecological functions. • Development proposals should be adapted to fit the topography and natural setting of the County. • Special consideration should be given in areas known for karst terrain prior to changes in land use. Prior to any development activities in areas known to have karst terrain, a geotechnical analysis should be performed by a certified geotechnical engineer and submitted to the Public Works Department for review. • Update all Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance requirements to ensure that dam break inundation zones are identified to minimize potential impacts resulting from future development. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 87 Sensitive lr•� Natural Areas ® Limestone / Carbonate Bedrock Reynolds (Potentially Karst) Store r` Floodplains ::a" ' szz Percent of Slope 15 - 2 5 127 rr ,� � • 25 50Cross Junction r f ,. . ST J ip �vI- t. r ¢ Gore Clear Brook 259 � Oephe' son,. bin Round 1 Shawneeland.- - 7 50 50 522 tar'Ta `dry Armel +}'j•lrF�j 277' 522 f 1GK., �pG 0 0.5 1 2 3 4 5 6 I I I I I I I Miles' 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft "'� NATURAL RESOURCES THE 2935 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 89 NATURAL RESOURCES EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL Soils are natural resources that require proper use and conservation. Bare soil is the single greatest source of sediment which can enter waterways through erosion. In many instances, the greatest controllable source of soil erosion is through managing construction activities to reduce exposing the soil to the elements. It is important to realize that the use of the soil be related to its suitability and limitations. Improper use may result in accelerated soil erosion, ground and surface water pollution, flooding, drainage problems, failed septic systems, construction problems and unproductive agricultural and forestal lands. The most environmentally sensible approach is to consider and adapt to soil types the planning and design of developments. The 1987 Soil Survey of Frederick County, Virginia by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Soil Conservation Service includes general and detailed soil maps, descriptions of the soils; and the suitability, limitations, and management of the soils for specified uses. The general soils map can be used to compare the suitability of large areas for general land use while the detailed soil maps along with soil unit descriptions can be used to plan and design a specific site. The Virginia Erosion and Sediment Control Act and the Frederick County Code require that properties and waters be protected from soil erosion and sedimentation resulting from development activities. The Frederick County Public Works Department is responsible for the implementation and enforcement of these requirements. GOALS/STRATEGIES GOAL: INCORPORATE SOIL TYPES INTO LAND USE PLANNING FOR THE DESIGN OF DEVELOPMENTS TO ENSURE PROPER USE OF THIS NATURAL RESOURCE AND GUARANTEE THAT DURING DEVELOPMENT PROPER EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL MEASURES ARE MAINTAINED. STRATEGIES: • Vegetative cover should be encouraged as the most important physical factor influencing soil erosion. The removal of topsoil and permeable soils should be discouraged and when removed, requirements to replace the soils should be enforced. • Developments should be planned to fit the particular topography, soils, waterways, and natural vegetation on a site to ensure that structures and grading are designed to fit the site. • Planning that requires the smallest practical area of land be exposed for the shortest period of time (through scheduling and staging project activities) is encouraged. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 90 NATURAL RESOURCES STORMWATER MANAGEMENT Urban development changes the nature of streams and drainage. Areas once woodlands or pastures that are developed with roads, parking lots, and buildings, increase the impervious area or imperviousness of the watershed. This process brings changes to the runoff characteristics of surface water, both in quantity and quality. Stormwater management is regulated by Chapter 79 of the Code of Frederick County "Erosion and Sediment Control Ordinance" as authorized by the Virginia Erosion and Sediment Control Law of Virginia. The Department of Public Works is the agency responsible for the implementation and enforcement of the Stormwater Management Ordinance as managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). Stormwater management seeks to maintain post -development runoff at pre -development levels. Where necessary, stormwater storage systems, such as detention ponds, are required to accommodate a post -development storm with a twenty -five-year frequency Low Impact Development (LID) is an alternative to conventional stormwater management. LID is a site design strategy with the goal of maintaining or replicating the pre -development hydrologic response through the use of design techniques to create a functionally equivalent hydrologic landscape. Some of the functions include water storage, infiltration, and groundwater recharge as well as management of the volume and frequency of water discharges. Elements of LID include minimizing land disturbance, limiting impervious surfaces, and utilizing runoff reduction practices such as bioretention, permeable pavements and grass swales. Geology is an important consideration when considering the application of LID practices. In areas of karst terrain, infiltrating LID practices must be carefully planned due to the potential for sinkhole formation. Stormwater treatment and conveyance systems should be directed away from known sinkholes to prevent expansion or possible collapse. Other geologic issues involve the presence of shale which makes infiltration difficult to impossible. While the use of LID may not replace conventional SWM controls, a combination of the two measures makes for a better overall stormwater management program. GOALS/STRATEGIES GOAL: ENSURE THAT STORMWATER IS MANAGED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE COUNTY'S EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL ORDINANCE AND VIRGINIA'S STORMWATER REQUIREMENTS, AND WORK TO IMPLEMENT LOW IMPACT DEVELOPMENT (LID) MEASURES WHERE APPROPRIATE. STRATEGIES: • Encourage the use of semi -pervious or pervious surfaces and other low impact development techniques, where appropriate. Shared parking areas and reduced parking requirements for developments should be utilized to reduce impervious areas. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 91 NATURAL RESOURCES • Encourage the use of bio -retention whenever possible. Large impervious areas should take advantage of bio -retention in their parking lots. • Participate in regional efforts to integrate LID runoff reduction and pollution prevention practices in karst areas and areas with shale -derived soils. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 92 NATURAL RESOURCES GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE, GREENWAYS AND TRAILS Green infrastructure is the strategically planned and managed networks of natural lands, agricultural and forestal lands, and other open spaces. As an interconnected system, green infrastructure provides greater environmental viability, value, and function than disconnected individual resources. In both rural and urban areas, the green infrastructure concept identifies critical areas for conservation and establishes priorities for protection. It encompasses aspects like greenways, scenic areas, open spaces, biodiversity, and environmental corridors as well as naturally sensitive areas such as floodplains, karst areas and steep slopes. URBAN AND RURAL OPEN SPACE RESOURCES Open space resources in Urban Areas should be designed and created during development. Their value to the community is determined by their configuration, attributes and relationship to the surrounding areas. Urban open spaces will increase in importance as the County's Urban Development Area (UDA) is more densely developed. Development in the Urban Areas should consider specifically designed open spaces incorporated as amenities to offset the higher densities. Wooded areas are an important resource and should be considered during planning and designing open spaces. The benefits of wooded include areas the maintenance of ground and surface water quality, groundwater recharge areas, habitat for biological resources, added oxygen to the air, and help protect environmentally sensitive areas. Urban wooded areas provide buffers and potential recreational opportunities. These areas help to preserve the natural scenery and can make the Urban Area a more attractive place to live. Rural open spaces of prime agricultural areas, forested areas, mountainous areas and stream valleys have particular value to the community; and they should be conserved. (See Agricultural and Forestal Lands above) Inappropriate sites like prime farm land, floodplains, habitats for threatened or endangered species, wetlands and land near wetlands, land near bodies of water and designated park land should be avoided during site selection and development to reduce environmental impacts. Development should be channeled into urban areas with existing infrastructure which would help protect natural resources and that existing natural areas should be conserved and restored to provide habitats and to promote biodiversity. GREENWAYS Greenways are areas of open space, usually linear in nature that form networks of trails. They are often located along streams, within utility easements, and along roadways, and can serve many different purposes. They can help link people to the area's natural, recreational and cultural resources, as well as provide a system of natural linkages for the areas wildlife to preserve biodiversity and protect habitats. When constructed along streams they can help preserve and protect buffers along the streams which can help protect biodiversity and help filter pollutants. Greenways can also provide recreational opportunities such as hiking or bicycling provide nature studies such as plant and animal behavior, as well as simply raising awareness of the environment. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 93 NATURAL RESOURCES The Tuscarora Trail The Tuscarora Trail is a 249 mile hiking trail situated generally along the mountain ranges to the west of the Shenandoah and Cumberland Valley. It connects to the Appalachian Trail (AT) in Shenandoah National Park and in Pennsylvania northeast of the town of Carlisle. Approximately 26 miles of the Tuscarora Trail is in Frederick County (see map). Of this total, approximately 11.25 trail miles are protected by easements on private property, 3.75 trail miles are on unprotected private property and 11 trail miles are on public roads. This trail is an important feature in the County for recreation and for the promotion of tourism. For safety reasons, the County supports the relocation of the trail off of the public roads wherever possible. The County also supports voluntary trail easements for sections of the trail on private property to insure the long-term viability of the Tuscarora Trail. GOALS/STRATEGIES GOAL: OPEN SPACES IN THE URBAN AND RURAL AREAS OF THE COUNTY ARE IMPORTANT AND NEED TO BE RECOGNIZED, DELINEATED AND PROTECTED. STRATEGIES: • In urban areas, open spaces should be planned. All types of urban open spaces like greenways, squares, plazas, urban parks, playgrounds and street medians should be considered as part of urban development planning and implemented wherever reasonable. • In rural areas, open spaces should be protected not only through conservation easements but also transfer development rights programs to ensure that agricultural, forested, and mountainous areas are protected. GOAL: ESTABLISH A NETWORK OF GREENWAY TRAILS FOR CONSERVATION, RECREATION AND TRANSPORTATION THROUGH THE URBAN AREAS OF FREDERICK COUNTY, AND LINK WITH THE TRAILS NETWORK IN THE CITY OF WINCHESTER. STRATEGIES: • Work with the Parks and Recreation Department, the City of Winchester and other organizations and community stakeholders to develop a greenway network plan that highlights the area's natural and historic resources. • Ensure that when new developments are planned, connectivity of greenways is included through the project. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 94 T■ 0Ar"'047 MA M7 0 0.5 1 2 3 4 5 6� I I I I I I I Miles 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Draft NATURAL RESOURCES HABITAT FRAGMENTATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL CORRIDORS Habitat fragmentation reduces available wildlife areas and changes migratory pathways through environmental corridors. Past development has created small separated pockets of open space that sometimes conflict with the needs of local wildlife and their adaptability to these changes. Fragmentation can hinder the safe movement or migration of many species because it forces them to travel over roads and through developments. GOALS/STRATEGIES POLICY: INCREASE THE CONNECTIVITY OF NATURAL AREAS AND ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES IN BOTH THE URBAN AND RURAL AREAS OF THE COUNTY TO AVOID FRAGMENTATION OF HABITATS AND MIGRATORY PATHWAYS. IMPLEMENTATION: • Environmental corridors should be planned with all development activities to ensure safe movement and protection of species. • The County should seek to reduce habitat fragmentation by maintaining large contiguous areas of forests, meadows, wetlands and streams. • Large scale clearing of mature woodlands should be avoided during development activities. LIGHT AND NOISE POLLUTION LIGHT POLLUTION Cycles of daylight and darkness have ecological consequences. Obtrusive lighting, often referred to as light pollution, obscures our view of the sky and primarily comes from inefficient and misdirected lighting sources. Misdirected lighting causes urban sky glow and glare, is a source of energy waste and can be a nuisance. Simply defined, light pollution is excess or obtrusive light created mainly by humans. Increasing development requires that care be taken to reduce unfocused emissions of light. NOISE POLLUTION Noise pollution is unwanted noise, often described as a displeasing sound that disrupts the activity or balance of human or animal life. The source of most forms of noise pollution is from transportation systems like vehicles, aircraft or railroads. The daily activities of the Winchester Regional Airport are an example, and it is important that land developing around the Airport is respectful of this operation. The Airport Support Area helps designate what types of uses are appropriate in these developing areas to ensure the continued operation of the Airport. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 96 NATURAL RESOURCES Other sources of noise include industrial operations, highway traffic, car alarms, factory machinery and equipment, construction work, lawn care equipment, barking pets, car stereos, and power tools. Urban planning can play an important role in managing noise pollution, and the County must ensure that acceptable levels of noise are maintained. Currently the County only has maximum noise levels for industrially zoned property. GOALS/STRATEGIES GOAL: MINIMIZE LIGHT EMISSIONS TO THOSE NECESSARY AND CONSISTENT WITH GENERAL SAFETY AND RECOGNIZE THE NUISANCE ASPECT OF UNFOCUSED LIGHT EMISSIONS. STRATEGIES: • Evaluate current lighting ordinances to assess effectiveness in reducing light pollution caused by up -lighting, excessive lighting, and glare. • Light emissions need to be minimized to what is necessary and consistent with general safety. Recognition needs to be given to the nuisance aspect of unfocused light emission. GOAL: MINIMIZE HUMAN EXPOSURE TO UNHEALTHY LEVELS OF NOISE. STRATEGY: • Ensure that with new development, people are protected from unhealthy levels of noise. Examine types of noise generators and determine if additional ordinances are appropriate. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 97 HISTORIC RESOURCES VIII. HISTORIC RESOURCES THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 98 HISTORIC RESOURCES HISTORIC RESOURCES CURRENT CONDITIONS Frederick County has shifted in recent years from an agrarian community to one that has seen strong residential growth and an expanding business base. As a eeigseElHeigee ef With the development and diversification experienced over the years, landscapes in Frederick County have changed n9eFe dramatically EluFing this peFied than any etI9ei=. New residential communities have emerged in what were once rural areas, and architectural styles have become more uniform. However, the historic past (including sites, structures and landmarks) of Frederick County continues to play a role in the changing landscape. The Rural Landmarks Survey of Frederick County, a survey of the majority of structures built prior to 1940 in Frederick County, was completed in 1992. It EleeHngents documented over 1800 properties, concluding that many are historically significant. Archaeological sites in the County have also been inventoried. Many of the historically significant properties are recognized on the local, state, and national levels. In addition to the many structures in Frederick County, six Civil War battlefields of great national importance are located in the Frederick County and Winchester area. More than 12,000 acres of battlefield lands maintain high historic character and are enhanced by several fortifications and entrenchments. A partnership involving Winchester and Frederick County government, the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation, the Kernstown Battlefield Association, the Cedar Creek Battlefield Foundation, the North-South Skirmish, and others is underway to protect local battlefield sites and create a battlefield park network. estalglisIg-a-19046Fie EliStFiet Currently the County has four recognized historical districts and one National Historic Park: Newtown/Stephensburg, Opequon, Middletown, and Bartonsville, Cedar Creek Battlefield and Belle Grove National Historic Park. The County has also identified Rural Community Centers throughout the County that have a strong FHFal and historical character (See Rural Areas, Chapter 2). FOCUS FOR THE FUTURE The next twenty years should see the remainder of unidentified historic sites and archeological resources discovered and recorded. Sites that qualify as historic will be added to an on-going inventory. Such an inventory will include archeological surveys of properties surrounding known battlefields, encampments, trenches, and cemeteries. Heritage tourism will continue to be a strong component of Winchester -Frederick County's tourism program. Efforts to develop the battlefield park network will be underway in THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 99 HISTORIC RESOURCES partnership with the Shenandoah Valley Battlefield Foundation and other community stakeholders. The economic and cultural importance of historic resources should also be promoted. In combination with historic preservation and heritage tourism efforts, the County should partner with local agencies, organizations, and other appropriate groups to provide education sessions concerning preservation methods and programs. In addition, the Historic Resources Advisory Board (HRAB), a County appointed group, should continue to coordinate with these agencies when reviewing development applications. COMMUNITY BENEFITS The value of protecting our historical resources is immeasurable; once lost, historic structures and areas cannot be replaced. They provide a sense of who we are and where we have been. Our community benefits from a balance between sHFviving preserved historic resources and tf=�e new development . A battlefield park network in Frederick County and Winchester will provide substantial economic and educational benefits and will create a much -desired avenue for heritage tourism. Battlefield parks act as a means of meeting the County's growing need for green space and parkland by providing the opportunity for recreational facilities within the Parks and Recreation Department. Preserving battlefields and historic sites provides open spaces and scenic vistas. Incorporating trails, such as the five miles linking Route 661 to the Regency Lakes Community and Millbrook High School at the Third Battle of Winchester, complements the pedestrian and bike component of our transportation planning. Archeological sites are also important to the development of public education and heritage tourism programs as they provide a more detailed story of Frederick County's history. GOALS/STRATEGIES GOAL: IDENTIFY AND RECOGNIZE HISTORIC RESOURCES IN THE LONG-RANGE PLANNING EFFORTS OF THE COUNTY. STRATEGIES: • The Historic Resources Advisory Board (HRAB) will continue to assist the Department of Planning and Development by reviewing development proposals to determine their potential impact on historic sites and surrounding areas and make recommendations regarding the mitigation of any impacts. • Development should include a comprehensive approach to historic preservation that will result in a system of coordinated sites and battlefields Eledmeated 6F pmteeted on a eeFdmigated `asigmeig *1ge Battlefield PaFk PjetvveFk that preserves key resources sites, attracts tourists, and supports education. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 100 HISTORIC RESOURCES • The Use the Rural Landmarks Survey shall continue to serve as a primary source for EleteFfflil9il9g identifying historic properties and districts that qualify for official recognition. • Update and maintain the Rural Landmarks Survey regularly in order to keep current the inventory of structures older than fifty years. • Develop, update, and maintain an inventory of archaeological sites and cemeteries in Frederick County. • Archaeological surveys should be conducted prior to development, particularly any that involve battlefield areas, homesteads, Native American encampments, and waterways. GOAL: INCREASE THE REHABILITATION, ADAPTIVE REUSE, OR RESTORATION OF HISTORIC STRUCTURES. STRATEGIES: • Study, develop, and adopt methods and criteria to identify historic resources in need of preservation. • Support the reuse and rehabilitation of historic structures to maintain character of community, both residential and business. • Promote incentives for private landowners to comply V66148FiIy with Secretary of Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. , GOAL: INCORPORATE HISTORIC RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT IN AN EFFORT TO STRENGTHEN HERITAGE TOURISM. STRATEGIES: • Developments should incorporate and/or convert historic properties into recreational elements, including but not limited to pedestrian trails, parks, and museums. • Develop the Battlefield Park Network as a major heritage tourism component. • Create dedicated pedestrian -tee trails, sites, and routes of interest that will not adversely impact private property owners, as well as develop public scenic byways. THE 2936 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 101 Year Civil War Battlefields 1 1862 First Winchester 2 1862 First Kernstown 3 1863 Stephensons Depot 4 1863 Second Winchester 5 1864 Third Winchester 6 1864 Third Winchester 7 1864 Cedar Creek 8 1864 Third Winchester 9 1864 Second Kernstown Sites (Fortifications) 10 Parkins Mill Battery 11 1864 Winter Line 12 Carysbrook Redoubt 13 Hillandale Works 14 19th Corps Entrenchments 15 Star Fort 16 Fort Collier 17 Zig-Zag Trenches Civil War Sites 0 Civil War Battlefields Ta 0 0.5 1 2 3 4 5 6 I I I I I I I Miles Reynolds Cross Junction Shawneeland Civil War Battlefields %- & Sites (As Defined by the NPS Shenandoah Valley Civil War Sites Study) ainesboro Allbin C 11 4 16. .,15,;Q9 . m Hill Winches 'o` 8 50 37 0.®` 1 m 2 19 11 12 522 17 11 13 !T-, 10 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Draft Clear O Stephenson C Name 1 Bartonsville 2 Brucetown 3 Cedar Creek Battlefield 4 Gravel Springs 5 Green Spring 6 Kernstown Battlefield 7 Kline's Mill 8 Marlboro 9 Middletown 10 Opequon 11 Star Tannery 12 Stephens City (on Register) 13 Third Winchester Battlefield 14 White Hall = Possible Historic Districts Soar Tani 4 E)-111, 0 0.5 1 2 3 4 5 6 I I I I I I I Miles Reynolds Cross Junction Shawneeland 8 Possible Historic Districts 5 � X14 esboro 522 Round 10 6 I 11 1 Stephe City 12 27 11 Cle'af Brook _ �2 11 Stephenson 9 1GK., �pG � a e 2040 Comprehensive Plan Update Draft "'� THE 2.903V5 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN APPENDIX I -AREA PLANS (DRAFT) APPENDIX I AREA PLANS • THE EASTERN FREDERICK COUNTY LONG RANGELAND USE PLAN • NORTHEAST FREDERICK LAND USE PLAN • SENSENY EASTERN FREDERICK URBAN AREA PLAN • SOUTHERN FREDERICK LAND USE PLAN • ROUND HILL COMMUNITY LAND USE PLAN • WESTERN JUBAL EARLY LAND USE PLAN • ROUTE 37 WEST LAND USE PLAN • KERNSTOWN AREA PLAN • STEPHENS CITY/FREDERICK COUNTY JOINT LAND USE PLAN • MIDDLETOWN/SWSA • RELIANCE ROAD SWSA THE 2035 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Long Range Land Use Plan Future Rt 37 Bypass Urban Development Area Jewer and Water Service Area Airport Support Area andfill Support Area Business ® Mixed -Use 0 Mixed Use Commercial \ Office Highway Commercial ®B2/B3 40 Industrial ® Mixed Use Industrial \ Office ® Warehouse ®Heavy Industrial Extractive Mining Employment Q Residential 40 Mobile Home Community 40 Planned Unit Development •-,[ Urban Center ,!A Neighborhood Village 0 Residential, 4 u/a OHigh-Density Residential, 6 u/a ® High -Density Residential, 12-16 u/a (Z> Rural Area Commercial Recreation Q Recreation ® Natural Resources & Recreation //, Park ®Environmentally Sensitive Areas ®Interstate Buffer ® Sensitive Natural Areas f."4 Institutional Fire & Rescue Rural Community Center G (GY 0 0.5 1 Z Miles N - 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map Cc Draft APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS NORTHEAST FREDERICK LAND USE PLAN (NELUP) - INCLUDING TEXT APPROVED WITH THE FOLLOWING AMENDMENTS: • MCCANN-SLAUGHTER AMENDMENT Approved by the Board of Supervisors on August 13, 2014 • BLAIN AMENDMENT Approved by the Board of Supervisors on February 25, 2015 Northeast Land Use Plan 1 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS The Northeast Frederick Land Use Plan, NELUP, was approved by the Board of Supervisors on July 14th, 2011. At that time, the series of four maps detailing the Plan were approved. Text describing the Plan was not included. Subsequently, the two amendments to this plan noted above have included a text component. The text component of the plan follows. Northeast Land Use Plan 2 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS MCCANN-SLAUGHTER AMENDMENT (BOS APPROVED AUGUST 13, 2014) The Comprehensive Plans and Programs Committee (CPPC), at their April 14, 2014 meeting, recommended that the following amendment be incorporated into the Northeast Land Use Plan: The CPPC proposed the following balanced approach as an amendment to the Northeast Land Use Plan for the McCann -Slaughter properties located near the intersection of Martinsburg Pike (Route 11) and Old Charlestown Road (Route 761). This location has historically been identified as a Sensitive Natural Area (SNA) due to the environmental and historical features on and around the site, most notably Stephenson's Depot. • Protection of the environmental features of the site. • Preservation of those areas identified with NSA's and development limited to those areas to the south of the NSA's and south of McCann's Road. • Utilizing McCann's Road and other historical features, such as Milburn Road, as features to be protected and potentially used in a manner that promotes their historical context (an extension of the historical trail system in the area). • An O.M. (Mixed Use Office/Industrial) land use designation. • Access to be provided via a new north south road that would generally be adjacent to the border of the Sensitive Natural Area (SNA) providing access from Old Charles Town Road to McCann's Lane and the southern portion of the property. Ultimately, Route 37 would divide the southern portion of the property. No access would be permitted to McCann's Lane for vehicular access to Martinsburg Pike or Milburn Road. Subsequently, the proposal was further evaluated to determine if other elements could be incorporated into the proposed amendment that would further ensure the environmental, historical, and development resources were protected, promoted, and sensitively integrated together in this balanced amendment to the Northeast Land Use Plan. To that end, the following items should be addressed with the future development of this area. • A buffer adjacent to McCann's Lane that is approximately 50' in width (from the centerline). Contained within this area; native landscape plantings and preservation of the existing hedgerows aimed at preserving this resource and its character, interpreting the historical landscape, and buffering the future development. • A transitional buffer between the existing floodplain and future land uses that promotes environmental best management practices and buffers the historical SNA from the future land uses (landscaping, building height transitions, view sheds). This buffer may include areas of the identified environmental resources. • The ability to include a small area of neighborhood commercial land use in support of the proposed OM land use. This would be located in the northern portion of the OM land use adjacent to the future road. • An interpretive trail head/parking area in the northern portion of this area adjacent Northeast Land Use Plan 3 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS to the proposed road could be incorporated into the design of the project, potentially in conjunction with a small area of neighborhood commercial. The interpretation may be reflective of the environmental and historical resources of the site and area. • The CPPC recommended the OM land use designation extends to the center of the stream. (A subsequent evaluation of this indicated it would be more appropriate to have the edge of the ultimate floodplain be the common boundary as a floodplain is, by definition in the 2939 Comprehensive Plan, an identified Sensitive Natural Area). • The location and design of the road should be sensitive to the environmental and historical resources and should have minimal impact. • Historical signage consistent with currently used signage should be provided. • Historically relevant features, such as split rail fences, should be considered as a feature of the future development. But care should be taken to ensure the character of the resource isn't changed. • Appropriate traffic controls should be provided on McCann's Lane to ensure that it is used only for pedestrian and bicycle users. In general, balance was maintained as the overarching theme of the discussion of the CPPC, and subsequently, the discussion of the ad-hoc CPPC/HRAB group. Northeast Land Use Plan 4 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS BLAIN PROPERTIES AMENDMENT (BOS APPROVED FEBRUARY 25, 2015) Approved lanauaae: The area of land use northwest of Exit 321, Interstate 81, Hopewell Road, and south of Cedar Hill Road is commercial and industrial in character. In general, the north -south major collector road that has been identified and is necessary to support this area of land use serves as a boundary between the commercial and industrial land uses. Flexibility should be offered in the final balance and location of land uses. Future applications for rezoning in this area shall adequately address any potential impacts to public facilities, in particular transportation, and shall implement any necessary transportation improvements. Northeast Land Use Plan 5 © Existing Elementary . Existing High School 19 Future Elementary OFuture Park Eastern Road Plan • \.• New Major Arterial Improved Major Arterial • \_♦ New Minor Arterial Improved Minor Arterial New Major Collector Improved Major Collector ♦^��• New Minor Collector Improved Minor Collector Ramp Roundabout Trails City of Winchester 1 Stephenson Rural Community `' cen[er ` f-r i � � r 'r i�00 --.--.,��..e` 1 -_-- NortheastIf Area Plan �� Urban Development Area Sewer and Water Service Area '`O, Future Rt 37 Bypass 1111111111110 Land _ a lan Land Use Legend - Business ® Heavy Industrial O Residential, 4 u/a • Sensitive Natural Areas N ® Mixed -Use Extractive Mining ® High -Density Residential, 12-16 u/a 4M Institutional B2/ 33 O Residential 41� Natural Resources & Recreation OSchool W 6 A • Industrial Planned Unit Development ��//�j Park ® Fire & Rescue S ® Mixed Use Industrial \ Office O iZ-b Urban Center (:E00 Interstate Buffer <D Rural Community Center ® warehouse 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map 0 0.25 0.5 1 1.5 Miles Draft i I I i i I \ s1c...o� f ' Rurai Community �+ A Cen[er ul 52 \ , City of Winchester 1-7 N ��F~fQG W- * c St 5 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map Draft Urban Development Area Sewer and Water Service Area '-` ;. Future Rt 37 Bypass Draft Eastern Road Plan O'S.0 Improved Minor Arterial #ow**.o Improved Minor Collector •"*moi New Major Arterial ♦ti'` New Major Collector Ramp *"\./ Improved Major Arterial I'`� Improved Major Collector Roundabout • New Minor Arterial ♦� if New Minor Collector Trails 0 0.25 0.5 1 Miles i I i 1-7 N ��F~fQG W- * c St 5 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map Draft , 2 City of 7 7 Winchester 50 Urban Development Area Sewer and Water Service Area Proposed Lane Divides 0*41k#,04 Lane Limited Access w/ CD Lanes (if required) 6 Lane Divided 4 Lane Divided ,Stephenson 1_1 Community C-1- 0 0.25 0.5 1 Miles i i 1-7 Clear Brook & I N W- * 0 S 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map Draft re Tyr^`" i y/!�j , /. cieareiooxse4 'rown�� Rorei Co � R r � Stephenson \ ' Rurai Community 4 I City of Winchester 7� Area Plan sorNortheast Frederick _Community Facilities Recreational Natural and Urban Development Area -Sewer and Water Service Area Future Rt 37 Bypass Resources -• Facilities Community Facilities ® Future Park \ Elementary School Water Resources Area �yb.. GpG Elementary School N 4 J Middle School Natural Resource &Recreation Areas a. � . High School High School - Sensitive Natural Areas W E s„ 40 Fire & Rescue Station~j Rural Community Center OS Future Park OM Park 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map 0 0.25 0.5 1 Miles Draft APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS SENSENY/EASTERN FREDERICK URBAN AREA PLAN SEFUAP Senseny/Eastern Frederick Urban Area Plan 10 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS SENSENY/EASTERN FREDERICK URBAN AREA PLAN This area is home to many families and successful businesses and contains some of the area's most accessible natural resources, environmental features, historic resources, and public facilities. The Senseny/Eastern Frederick Urban Area Plan effort builds upon these great assets and has identified opportunities to; create new communities, integrate land use and transportation choices, address community infrastructure needs, and expand the County's goals for economic development. A series of maps have been prepared which identify Future Land Use, Transportation, and Historical Resources, Natural Resources and Public Facilities within the study area. The Senseny/Eastern Frederick Urban Area Plan incorporates the following areas of new land use focus: the Urban Centers, the Parkins Mill Economic Development Area, Interstate and Highway Commercial at Routes 7, 50 and 522, Warrior Drive Employment and Commercial Center, and others. The above areas combine to form the County's urban areas between the City of Winchester and Clarke County. The study encompasses the area of the County that is generally east of the City of Winchester and Route 522, South to the Clarke County line and from Redbud Run in the north to the Opequon Creek in the south. This study area includes the Route 7 and Route 50 Business Corridor Plans which were both adopted in 1994, and the eastern portion of the Southern Frederick Land Use Plan which was adopted in 1999, generally north of the Opequon Creek. The study area includes both the Red Bud and Shawnee Magisterial Districts and a small portion of the Stonewall Magisterial District. Senseny/Eastern Frederick Urban Area Plan 11 ONVIN WIN.' Senseny/Eastern Frederick Urban Area Plan 11 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS LAND USE URBAN CENTERS The urban centers are envisioned to be intensive, walkable urban areas that are well integrated with the surrounding community. The urban center should be based on the principles of New Urbanism or Traditional Neighborhood Design promoted in the 2935 Comprehensive Plan. They shall contain a large commercial core, generally higher residential densities with a mix of housing types, an interconnected street system, and public open space around which the urban center is designed. Multiple uses are envisioned in single structures. Community facilities shall also provide a focal point for the urban center and surrounding community. Public spaces in the form of pocket parks, plazas, or greens shall be further integrated into the design of the urban centers. Presently, Greenwood Mill Elementary School, Admiral Byrd Middle School and Evendale Elementary School provide a focal point for community activity. In the future, these resources shall be complemented by a new high school, middle school, and elementary school which shall serve the existing and future population and be located within close proximity to the centers. 11 1 urban centers are centrally located in the study area. The commercial and residential mix of land uses shall have a strong street presence and shall relate to existing and planned road infrastructure. The mix of commercial, residential, employment, and community uses shall be linked to the surrounding area with inter -modal transportation choices and public open spaces. While the core characteristics of the urban centers are the same, each urban center is envisioned to be more individual, of a varying scale, and distinctive of their particular location. The following describes what an urban center in Frederick County may look like. The land use and/or building types could include, in addition to commercial and residential, community oriented types such as civic, religious, fraternal, or institutional uses. In the core area one may find 2 to 4 story buildings that, at the center, share party walls and front directly on the sidewalk; at the first or ground floor one will find retail and commercial uses, upper stories will have offices in some buildings and others will have apartments; and parking of cars will be on the street or in lots behind the buildings and possibly in parking decks if there is such need for structured parking. These types of structures will be readily accessible from the boulevards that serve the urban center. THE CROSSPOINTE URBAN CENTER The designated Crosspointe Urban Center provides an opportunity to enable—eitheFthe allow for a greater mix of commercial and residential land uses, The Crosspointe Urban Center is envisioned to be the most intensively developed urban center, due to its location eengngeF mal and HFban e Thr HFbaR eeRteFs and, at the convergence of Interstate 81, Route 37 and future Warrior Drive; ideally leeated to be the nest intensive. The residential densities in this area have the potential to be the highest in the County's urban areas. Opportunities exist to further the entertainment characteristics of this area based on its location, visibility and accessibility. Senseny/Eastern Frederick Urban Area Plan 12 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS THE GREENWOOD URBAN CENTER The designated Greenwood Urban Center provides an opportunity for a focal point for an area where most of the recent suburban residential development has occurred. The Greenwood Urban Center is envisioned to introduce a mix of uses into already developed areas in a way that builds the identity and enhances it livability. This urban center should embrace a traditional main -street feel, be pedestrian -friendly, ecologically sensitive, and architecturally distinctive, honor our region's local heritage and look to the future by promoting urban life in a dynamic new way. This lifestyle center should be defined by tree -lined boulevards and an inviting central park area oriented around the existing historic farm house and grounds. The residential densities in the core of this area are envisioned to be in the 12-16 units per acre range, tapering off to 6 units per acre on its perimeter. Anchored in all directions by existing and proposed schools and park areas, this urban center is tailored to be the future focal point of the Senseny Road and Greenwood Road area. THE PAPER MILL ROAD _' RIE ."".=__ URBAN CENTER/ NEIGHBORHOOD VILLAGE This designated urban center provides an opportunity to introduce a mix of uses into a largely undeveloped area in a way that builds the identity and enhances the economic performance of these communities. This area is already anchored by an elementary school and middle school. Similar to the Senseny and Greenwood Urban Center, this urban center should also embrace a traditional main -street feel, be pedestrian -friendly, ecologically sensitive and architecturally distinctive, honor the area's local heritage and promote urban life in a dynamic new way. This urban center should be defined by tree -lined boulevards and an inviting central park area oriented around the existing public facilities. The residential densities in the center of this area are envisioned to be 10-12 units per acre in the core area, tapering off to 6 units per acre on its perimeter adjacent to the existing residential land uses. RESIDENTIAL LAND USES Outside of the urban centers described above, the residential land uses in the Senseny/Eastern Frederick study area are defined in three main categories: R4 - these are generally reflective of our existing residential densities at approximately 4 units per acre. R6 - these are slightly higher residential densities at approximately 6 units per acre (this is generally attached house development). Higher density residential - these are generally multifamily and a mix of other housing types with densities of approximately 12-16 units per acre (this density is necessary to accommodate the anticipated growth of the County within the urban areas and is essential to support the urban center concept identified in the Comprehensive Plan and this study). The residential land uses outside and east of Route 37 are envisioned to be rural area residential in character. Route 37, to the north and east of Route 50, may generally be Senseny/Eastern Frederick Urban Area Plan 13 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS considered as the boundary between the urban areas and rural areas within this study area. This provides a transition area to the Opequon Creek and to the well-established rural character of adjacent Clarke County. A buffer area along and adjacent to Interstate 81 has been identified where future residential land uses are not appropriate; commercial and industrial uses are preferred. Within this buffer area, a linear trail system is promoted. The buffer area also provides for the reservation of additional right-of-way along 81 which may be necessary in the future. Noise abatement techniques should be a consideration in the Interstate 81 corridor to minimize the impact from vehicular traffic on the residents of the area. Shenandoah University's campus extends into this portion of the County. The plan recognizes and supports Shenandoah University and the University's presence in Frederick County, especially in and around its current location on the east side of Interstate 81 and north of Route 50. The potential exists as well as the potentia: for future residential uses associated with the university in the area in the form of urban residential housing in redeveloped existing commercial properties. The Airport Support Area has been bolstered with the addition of land to the south east. The Airport Support Area was established to ensure the feasibility of continued airport- associated use and future airport expansion. The Comprehensive Plan reiterates that residential land uses are not desirable in the Airport Support Area. Business and industrial uses should be the primary land use. Other recommendations from the residential aroua: • Utilize additional municipal land uses adjacent to the Frederick County Landfill as a buffer to non -compatible land uses, particularly residential. • Provide for additional institutional opportunities in the southern part of the study area, west of Route 522. • Consider another community college presence within this area plan. • Establish a linear park area east of existing Greenwood Road, and a new park area west of the Justes Drive school cluster. • Supply additional locations for C & I land uses in the areas identified which are adjacent to transportation corridors and urban centers. These include: o An area of commercial and light industrial north of Route 7, buffered by higher density residential to the east, transitioning to existing school uses. o An area of medical office uses adjacent to and east of proposed Senseny Road Urban Center. o An area of commercial and employment land uses with significant office space availability north of Crosspointe Urban Center buffering into the high density residential areas. • An area of commercial and employment land use with significant office space availability north of the Crosspointe Urban Center buffering the high density residential areas. BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT LAND USES PARKINS MILL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AREA The Parkins Mill Economic Development Area is intended to be a significant area of commercial and industrial use that is fully supportive of the Frederick County Economic Development Senseny/Eastern Frederick Urban Area Plan 14 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS Authority's (EDA) WinehesteF FTedeF+Nc GeHnty Eeenengie Deo targeted goals and strategies. The intent of the mixed-use designation is to further enhance the County's commercial and industrial areas and to provide focus to the County's future regional employment centers. This area has been established to be a progressive location for economic development opportunities in eastern Frederick County. Targeted businesses include: • Defense and Advanced Security • Life Sciences • Business Services • Assembly • Food Processing In prominent locations, office use with a mix of flexible space is encouraged. Such areas will be the entrance to clusters of industrial and commercial space, and contain distinctive architecture and site design that is aesthetically unique and attractive. It is the intent of such areas to promote a strong positive community image. In addition, this development will support businesses that encourage viable environmental practices and community oriented operating philosophies. Residential land use is not compatible with this development and will not be permitted. INTERSTATE AND HIGHWAY COMMERCIAL AT ROUTES 7 AND 50 These areas of land use are located at highly visible locations on prominent interstate interchanges, and along the primary arterial roads that feed into the Interstate. They shall be designed specifically to accommodate and promote highway commercial land uses. Particular effort must be made to ensure that access management for the supporting transportation network is a key priority, as the function of the interstate and primary road network is of paramount importance. The site layout and building design should recognize the nature of the region and land plans should not focus on the minor use, but the comprehensive macro use. In addition, an enhanced area of buffer and landscaping shall be provided adjacent to the Interstate 81 right-of-way and its ramps. Corridor design recommendations are discussed later in this plan. WARRIOR DRIVE EMPLOYMENT AND COMMERCIAL CENTER A major employment and commercial area is proposed primarily along the west side of future Warrior Drive and adjacent to the east side of Interstate 81. This area extends east of Warrior Drive along Airport Road. This major employment area would be centered on the proposed future interchange at Interstate 81 at Papermill Road. Supported by future high density residential areas and central to proposed urban centers, this employment center will be ideally placed to capitalize on this core location. Emphasis should be placed on quality building and site design. Other recommendations from the business development group: New retail/service land use adjacent to the future Route 37 interchange areas with Route 522 South and Route 50 East to facilitate regional shopping opportunities. New retail/service land use adjacent to the future realignment of Valley Mill Road and Route 7 East. Senseny/Eastern Frederick Urban Area Plan 15 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS • Infill retail/service land use within existing residential developments between Route 7 East and Senseny Road. • Intensive retail and office use lie within the urban center planned between Senseny Road, Greenwood Road, Inverlee Way Extension and Channing Drive Extension. This area has been incorporated into the Senseny and Greenwood Urban Center. • New neighborhood retail/service and office land use within the mixed-use area planned around existing public -school facilities and church facilities near Route 522 South and Justes Drive. This area has been incorporated into the Justes Drive and Evendale Urban Center. • New employment centers are appropriate for the land between Route 522 South and Interstate 81 adjacent to the Papermill Road flyover bridge and the future Battaile Drive interchange with Interstate 81, and the future Warrior Drive extension and Tasker Road extension. New employment centers are envisioned to allow for intensive retail, office, flex -tech, and/or light industrial land use in planned business park settings. This area has been incorporated into the Warrior Drive Employment and Commercial Center. • A new industrial park is planned between Route 522 South, Route 50 East, Parkins Mill Road, and future Route 37. This area has been incorporated into the Parkins Mill Economic Development Area. The business development recommendations of this plan seek to implement the 2935 Comprehensive Plan by promoting the efficient utilization of existing and planned land areas and transportation networks. Further, the recommendations promote commercial, industrial, and employment land use areas to assure the County's desired taxable value ratio of 25 percent commercial/industrial to 75 percent residential and other land use is achieved. The Plan provides new industrial park and employment center areas to match the Eeene ffim . Developfent Geffissien's vision for this portion of Frederick County. The plan identifies prime areas for urban center development to capitalize on future commercial and employment opportunities. In addition, areas are identified for neighborhood commercial retail use to accommodate existing residential communities. Existing commercial land uses are promoted that facilitate tourism and short-term visitor experiences and revenue growth. Specific implementation steps have been identified which would further promote business development opportunities in the Senseny/Eastern Frederick County Urban Area Plan and Frederick County in general. These include: The creation of a Future Land Use Revenue Incentive Program that provides property owners with the ability to sell residential density rights to keep their property available for future employment, commercial, or industrial land use as recommended by the Comprehensive Policy Plan. This program would incentivize the property owner by providing a revenue income source in the near term and future revenue income when the property is zoned for employment, commercial or industrial land use. Incentivize the property owner with automatic placement of the property into the Sewer and Water Service Area (SWSA) if a rezoning application is processed for future employment, commercial, or industrial land use if adequate capacity and existing infrastructure is available. Senseny/Eastern Frederick Urban Area Plan 16 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS • Incentivize the property owner with County endorsement of Economic Development Access (EDA) funds and/or Revenue Sharing Funds to assist in the financing of major road infrastructure needed to serve the development project. Additionally, provide for County -managed support of the major road infrastructure projects to streamline the approval process for project design and construction management. • Incentivize the property owner through the implementation of expedited rezoning processes for future employment, commercial, or industrial land use as recommended by the Comprehensive Pe+iey Plan. • The creation of new Zoning Ordinance requirements that facilitate more intensive Floor to Area Ratio (FAR) and height allowances for future employment, commercial or industrial land use, especially in the urban centers. • The County should support and partner with various athletic organizations to sponsor regional or state tournaments and events using existing facilities to promote tourism in support of existing hotels, restaurants, and attractions. CORRIDOR DESIGN The Route 522, 50, and 7 corridor design guidelines should be reaffirmed. In addition, the following locations have been identified as priority corridor appearance and multi -modal locations: Route 50 between Interstate 81 and Prince Frederick Drive, to include Shenandoah University and prime commercial locations. Route 7 between Interstate 81 and Greenwood Road, to include Millbrook High School, Redbud Run Elementary School and prime commercial locations. Senseny and Greenwood Roads and Channing Drive, to include the area encompassed by the urban center and Senseny Road in its entirety. A significant corridor appearance buffer is proposed along Route 522 similar to that established for the Route 50 West corridor in the Round Hill Land Use Plan, which consisted of a 50 foot buffer area, landscaping, and bike path. The Route 50 and 7 corridors are more urban. Sufficient right-of-way is needed and street frontage is approached differently. TRANSPORTATION In support of the new areas of land use, a transportation network has been proposed which relates to the location and context of the areas of land use, promotes multi -modal transportation choices and walkability, and furthers the efforts of the Win -Fred MPO. In this study, there is a direct nexus between transportation and land use. As noted in the Transportation Chapter of the Plan, as road projects and development or redevelopment take place, the development and associated transportation facilities should be accessible to all users. inteFstate 81, Future Route 37, Route 7, Route 50, and Route 522, make up the County's primary road system and provide new opportunities to create a transportation network which supports the future growth of the community On the Fight +eeatieR, in this study area. geReFally ..._ic'_ fHtHFe ReHte 37 Access Management is a significant consideration of this study. existing and fHtHFe Fe The use of frontage roads, minor collector roads, and inter parcel connections to bring traffic to common access points is key to a safe and efficient Senseny/Eastern Frederick Urban Area Plan 17 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS transportation and reduces the need for roadway widenings and expansions to be needed as quickly. is pFengeted en the abeve Feads. Access Management is a6e a key consideration on etheF c;i+ roads within the study area, but particularly along the primary and major collector roadways. „eweveF, within ad+ffeFent eente)A—. The study also proposes a new and extended major collector network supplemented by interconnected minor collector street network in support of a significant urban center and new areas of economic growth - Warrior Drive, Justes Drive, Channing Drive, Inverlee Way. The context of the collector road network is proposed to be significantly different, however, than that of Route 37, with the focus being placed on a more walkable and friendly street thoroughfare design. The change in context is based upon the classification of a road and to ensure compatibility with adjacent land uses and community goals. Particular attention should be paid to street network within the urban center. The surrounding land use, site design, and building design are features that will help create context and promote the creation of new communities, places, and focal points. Attention should also be provided to the context of the street in the immediate vicinity of existing and future schools, and the neighborhood village commercial areas to ensure that these prominent locations are safe and accessible to all modes of transportation. Bicycle and pedestrian accommodations should be fully integrated into street designs. Appropriately designed intersection accommodations should include pedestrian refuge islands and pedestrian actualized signals. More specific transportation considerations for Millbrook High School and the adjacent park areas include taking a proactive approach in creating safe interconnected routes to the park from the adjacent areas. Roundabouts should be considered as a priority preference for intersection design; roundabouts are particularly effective when used in series. Consistent application of Comprehensive Plan goals to achieve an acceptable Level of Service (LOS) on area roads and overall transportation network, LOS C or better, should be promoted. Further, efforts should be made to ensure that additional degradation of the transportation beyond an acceptable LOS shall be avoided. Consideration of future development applications within the study area should only occur when an acceptable LOS has been achieved and key elements and connections identified in this plan have been provided. Other recommendations from the transportation croup: • Emphasize the role of the State and the development community in the implementation of the planned road system. • Use modeling to determine lane needs based upon build out of planned land uses, but consider plans of neighboring localities when making recommendations (for example Senseny Road where it enters the City of Winchester or Clarke County) • Consider the needs of bicycle users and pedestrians in the following ways: o Continue to plan for multi -modal street deigns that will take all users into consideration. o Within residential neighborhoods, this would mean that sidewalks be used and cyclists share the roads. Use of striping that defines parking bays or cycling areas would be preferred. o On collector roadways or higher, make use of separated multi -use paths at least 10 feet in width. Senseny/Eastern Frederick Urban Area Plan 18 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS o Incorporate wide shoulders or bike lanes into roadways that have budgetary or right-of-way limitations. This would be viewed as a step toward the ultimate goal of a separated facility. o Make use of paved shoulders with striping on rural roadways as a long term measure. Rural roadways would be defined by traffic count or as roadways outside of the UDA that are not part of the Primary System (ex. Route 50 or 522). o Bike paths should be constructed on the same grade as the adjacent roadway. o Bike path maintenance should be addressed by adjacent property owner groups whenever possible. • Continue to enforce improved access management with redevelopment or new development. o This includes, but is not limited to, entrance location and spacing as well as traffic signal location and spacing. • Roundabout use is preferred over signalization of intersections where traffic control is needed. • Attractive median treatments (as alternative to standard grey concrete median) other than grass or other landscaping should be considered when maintenance agreements with VDOT cannot be achieved. o Treatments should be reasonably consistent • Street sections could be modified due to DCR changes specific to drainage requirements. Senseny/Eastern Frederick Urban Area Plan 19 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS NATURAL RESOURCES, HISTORIC RESOURCES, AND PUBLIC FACILITIES. NATURAL RESOURCES Frederick County is a community that values and protects its natural resources. Frederick County should create a green infrastructure inventory for the study area as well as the County as a whole. This inventory should guide land use and development to best preserve and protect natural resources. Developers should complete detailed environmental analysis for properties proposed for development. This information could be utilized to supplement the green infrastructure inventory. Within the Senseny/Eastern Frederick Urban Areas Plan, effort should focus on the creation of greenways, stream valley parks and stream buffers around waterways, while taking into account environmentally sensitive areas. Pedestrian facilities should be constructed that connect these features to other public facilities. Many such examples have been identified on the accompanying map. Environmental corridors should be incorporated with all development activities to ensure safe movement and protection of species and future development within the study area should take into account the natural resources located on and around their property. Businesses that utilize environmental management systems should be targeted by Frederick County. Further, developers should consider available renewable energy options with their projects. HISTORIC RESOURCES Frederick County is a community that recognizes and protects the historic structures and sites within the study area. Possible historic districts and significant structures have been identified and recognized. Priority sites for preservation within the study area should be identified and efforts initiated to preserve those of highest need. These include Frederick Hall/Parkins Mill Battery and the historic area around Carpers Valley Road. Consideration should be given to increase the rehabilitation, adaptive reuse, or restoration of historic structures. Heritage tourism should be promoted within the study area. The Comprehensive Plan calls for the adaptive reuse of historic structures, future development applications that have historic resources on the property should incorporate the site into development. Sensitive natural areas and historic areas are shown on the land use map for the study area. By recognizing these historic sites and structures, we are implementing the policies of the Comprehensive Plan. Other recommendations from the group: Require archaeological surveys to be conducted prior to development, particularly any that involve battlefield areas, homesteads, American Indian encampments, and waterways. Senseny/Eastern Frederick Urban Area Plan 20 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS • Significant structures and properties should be shown with a sensitive natural/historic designation. These NSA's should be protected through historic districts and/or buffered from adjacent development activity. • The historic areas around Frederick Hall/Parkins Mill Battery and the historic area around Carpers Valley Road should be considered for possible historic districts. • Developments should incorporate and/or convert historic properties into recreational elements, including pedestrian trails, parks, and museums. Establish a linear historic greenway between Crosspointe (Hillandale, Carysbrooke, and the preservation park) and the fort (at Parkins Mill Battery), preserving the natural, recreational, and historical features and promoting accessibility. • Create a historic gateway park to Frederick County by supporting the restoration and adaptive reuse of the Millbank House in conjunction with other preservation partners. • The historic one -lane bridge located on Valley Mill Road should be maintained and preserved. • Ensure connectivity of bicycle or pedestrian transportation accommodations to existing or proposed public facilities and historic resource areas. A regional park site has been identified on Senseny Road; this site contains a potentially significant structure and one of the few remaining farming complexes within the developed area of the study area. This park should incorporate the historical farm house and contributing structure as a means to demonstrate urban agriculture. PUBLIC FACILITIES The need for public spaces within the study area (such as schools, neighborhood parks, and regional parks) is recognized and addressed. The accompanying maps identify general locations within the Senseny/Eastern Frederick Urban Area Plan where such facilities should be accommodated in order to ensure adequate public facilities corresponding with the growth of the community. Future school sites should be located within or near established or planned residential areas to encourage walk zones, as well as create a focus point for the community. Residential land uses that complement existing public facilities and schools are encouraged. Utilities and infrastructure will be needed within the study to accommodate future growth. Frederick County needs to look at preserving the intent of the landowner when planning for public facilities while still meeting the needs of the community. Other recommendations from the aroua: On any given request for development, the development community should work with all public facility providers to determine future public facility needs based upon this plan and the established standards of the public facility providers. The Parks & Recreation Department should continue to evaluate the 'ideal" park site rings that are within the 2935 Comprehensive Plan. Sites that are outside of the identified park rings should be considered if they meet the needs of the community. A regional park is envisioned within the study area. In addition, a smaller park is envisioned within the Greenwood Urban Center that should incorporate the historical farm house and contributing structure as a means to demonstrate urban agriculture. Senseny/Eastern Frederick Urban Area Plan 21 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS • Urban parks and other public spaces should be constructed within or near communities. These parks should be open to the public and connected not only by road, but by various pedestrian facilities. • The 42 acre parcel owned by the landfill (old landfill site) could be considered for future use as a park. • Public access areas to the Opecluon Creek should be constructed, taking into account environmentally sensitive areas. • The bicycle and pedestrian facilities shown on the map and the 2007 Won FFed We WinFred MPO planning documents should be implemented. • Pedestrian facilities should be constructed that connect existing and future neighborhoods to school, park and library facilities to promote access and walkability. A trail or sidewalk should be provided along Greenwood Road. • Support completion of a linear recreation path encompassing the Senseny Road, Abrams Creek, Channing Drive areas. • Ensure connectivity of bicycle or pedestrian transportation accommodations to existing or proposed public facilities and historic resource areas. • Ensure connectivity with existing or proposed bicycle or pedestrian transportation accommodations wherever possible. • A pedestrian crossing over Route 7 in the Millbrook School area should be provided. • Handley Regional Library needs should be recognized and addressed within the study area. A satellite library location should be provided within the study area (similar to Bowman Library) to meet this need. Frederick County Public Schools should also work with the Handley Regional Library to provide public library locations within new school locations. • Future areas for Fire & Rescue stations have been identified on the map; development proposals in these areas should take this future need into account. • The Airport has a 20 year Master Plan that outlines their ultimate expansion goals for this facility. Development proposals should not be considered on properties that fall within this planned expansion area. Also, development proposals considered within the Airport Support Area should not impact the current or future needs of the Airport. • Incompatible development should be avoided near the landfill to ensure that their operations are not impacted (i.e., residential, urban, etc.). Industrial uses may be appropriate near the landfill. A landfill support area should be created around the landfill similar to the Airport Support Area. This support area should extend 1,000 feet from the boundaries of the landfill. Senseny/Eastern Frederick Urban Area Plan 22 O Proposed Interchanges Eastern Road Plan l �{ • ♦�♦ New Major Arterial Improved Major Arterial • \_♦ New Minor Arterial Improved Minor Arterial tt New Major Collector 5 Improved Major Collector •^t�� New Minor Collector Ci of Of Improved Minor Collector I j ^ Winchester \/ Ramp it 1—\_1 Roundabout „ 04 Trails - /1 1C.1 J� .�, �_ ,r✓ �� - - Area Plan Senseny/Eastern Frederick Urban Development Area OSewer and Water Service Area '' :o Future Rt 37 Bypas Land _ Plan Land Use Legend Airport Support Area ® Mixed Use Industrial \ Office ® High -Density Residential, 6 u/a Environmentally Sensitive Areas Landfill Support Area ® Employment ® High -Density Residential, 12-16 v/a Interstate Buffer ® Business O Residential ® Commercial Recreation Sensitive Natural Areas ® Mixed -Use Planned Unit Development Recreation ® Institutional S ® Mixed Use Commercial \Office Urban Center O Natural Resources &Recreation ) Rural community center 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map ® B2 / B3 ®Neighborhood Village �f"� Park Draft • Industrial Q Residentia 1, 4 u/a 0 0.25 0.5 1 1.5 Miles I I i f t l Co� 50 Future Route 37 Ramp ] 1 ] t ♦;i II ��. ♦ _ !I'-` �` � • �� ado - �a 50 r 37 52 iy 1 Area Plan Frederick Land Use Plan Urban Development Area 4OSewer and Water Service Area " , Future Rt 37 Bypass Draft Eastern Road Plan 04%0 Improved Minor Arterial #'%.# Improved Minor Collector O N Proposed Interchanges •ii• New Major Arterial *% # New Major Collector *-*�O Ramp _+. 0'%./ Improved Major Arterial #1446/ Improved Major Collector Roundabout S •��. New Minor Arterial New Minor Collector Trails 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map 0 0.25 0.5 1 Miles Draft I i 1V/ Area Plan '�+ t Frederick Land Use Plan .Urban Development Area Sewer and Water Service Area " , Future Rt 37 Bypass - Draft Eastern Road Plan #'%/Improved Minor Arterial #%_#Improved MinorCollector O N Proposed Interchanges d- •��• New Major Arterial f %i New Major Collector 0'%.o Ramp _+. 0'%./ Improved Major Arterial #14N/ Improved Major Collector Roundabout S •%* New Minor Arterial New Minor Collector Trails 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map 0 0.25 0.5 1 Miles Draft I m _ MIUBANK HISTORIC GATEWA f ON y T 110T, �, URBAN CENTER t � 1 GREENWOOD �'�. t• PARK &TSGHOOL ■ iI , ", „� 1. 1 ,,�,�i� ,'�„ � +s FREDERICK'COUNTY LANDFILL AIRPAORT� ;& SUPPORT'AREA i�CEMETERYAREA� �PARKr" •.�``� SCARPERS VALLEYyRD PAHISTORIC AREA \PERMIII ' , +1 URBAN CENTERS f� ,CROSS POINTE\*C� .URBA'wN CENTER* �/��L-- *!� \ �� PARKINSMILL� , v ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT'AREA: r�� f� FREDERICK HALL HISTORIC GLf� 4 PARKINSMILLBATTERY REENWAY HISTORIC AREA �j) � �� k 1 Area Plan Senseny/Eastern Frederick Land Use Plan Historic and Natural Resources APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS SOUTHERN FREDERICK AREA PLAN SOFRED BOARD OF SUPERVISORS APPROVED ON NOVEMBER 12, 2014 INCLUDING TEXT APPROVED WITH THE FOLLOWING AMENDMENT: • LEONARD PROPERTY APPROVED BY THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS ON JANUARY 26, 2017 Southern Frederick Area Plan 27 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS SOUTHERN FREDERICK AREA PLAN The Southern Frederick Area Plan builds on the Route 277 Triangle and Urban Center Plan, consolidates the Tasker Woods Plan, and incorporates previously unplanned areas within the study boundary into a cohesive and proactive area plan. The Southern Frederick Area Plan continues to identify opportunities to create new communities, integrate land use and transportation choices, address community infrastructure needs, and expand the County's goals for economic development. A series of maps have been prepared which identify future land use, transportation, and natural, historical, and community facilities within the study area. The Southern Frederick Area Plan originally promoted five main areas of new land use focus; the Sherando Center, the Route 277 Triangle; Center of Economy, Interstate Commercial at I-81 Exit 307, White Oak Woods Neighborhood Village, and Tasker Woods. In the 2014 update, several additional areas of land use focus were envisioned: Lakeside Neighborhood Village, Artrip Neighborhood Village, Warrior and Tasker Neighborhood Village, and Lake Frederick Neighborhood Village. The above areas combine to frame the southern boundary of the County's urban areas. In addition, Route 522 South within the study area defines the eastern boundary of the County's urban areas. South and east of this study area; the County's rural areas are strengthened as the primary land use designation. The Lake Frederick Sewer and Water Service Area (SWSA) is recognized in this area plan. Southern Frederick Area Plan 28 11111 ME - - -- -- --- - - --- ----- -- -- - - -- -- - --- - - - - IN Southern Frederick Area Plan 28 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS LAND USE THE SHERANDO CENTER The Sherando Center is envisioned to be an intensive, walkable urban area that is well integrated with the surrounding community. The center should be based on the principles of New Urbanism or Traditional Neighborhood Design promoted in the 2939 Comprehensive Plan. It shall contain a large commercial core, generally higher residential densities with a mix of housing types, an interconnected street system, and public open space around which the center is designed. Community facilities shall also provide a focal point for the center and surrounding community. Presently, Sherando High School and Sherando Park provide this function. In the future, these resources shall be complemented by a new elementary school which shall serve the existing and future population and be located within the center. Public spaces in the form of pocket parks, plazas, or greens shall be further integrated into the design of the Sherando Center. FespeetfHl to the AgFieHltHFal DistFiet. The commercial and residential mix of land uses shall have a strong street presence and shall relate to existing Route 277, Warrior Drive and Double Church Road. The mix of commercial, residential, employment, and community uses shall be linked to the surrounding community with inter modal transportation choices and public open spaces. The Sherando Center is centrally located to the community and is in the short term, respectful to the Agricultural District. ROUTE 277 TRIANGLE - CENTERS OF ECONOMY 11 Route 277 Triangle Centers of Economy is designed to be a significant area of commercial and industrial opportunity that is fully supportive of the Frederick County Economic Development Authority's GefflfflissieRLS targeted goals and strategies. The intent of the mixed-use designation is to further enhance the County's commercial and industrial areas and to provide focus to the County's future regional employment centers. In specific areas a mix of flexible uses, with office uses in prominent locations is encouraged. Such areas are supported by substantial areas of industrial and commercial opportunity and provide for areas that are well designed with high quality architecture and site design. It is the intent of such areas to promote a strong positive community image. Residential land uses are not envisioned in this area peFn9itted. LAKE FREDERICK NEIGHBORHOOD VILLAGE Lake Frederick Neighborhood Village serves as a focal point to the 277 Triangle Centers of Economy, and as a gateway feature for the Shenandoah/Lake Frederick community. -atm n a broader scale, a gateway feature for Frederick County as citizens and visitors approach the County from the east is desirable in this area. This neighborhood village should promote a strong positive community image. Residential land uses would be permitted only as an accessory component of the neighborhood village commercial land uses. Previously, a Southern Frederick Area Plan 29 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS small area of neighborhood village commercial was identified on the south side of Route 277 in the general vicinity of the future entrance of Shenandoah and the existing Sandy's Mobile Home Park. The 2014 update to the Plan provides for an overall greater area and gFeater mix of uses in this area that is reflective of a strenger desire to create a more substantial focal point for activity. This is primarily based on the growth and development of the Lake Frederick Community and the involvement of new residents from this area. INTERSTATE COMMERCIAL 0 I-81 EXIT 307 Located at a highly visible location on an pFeffliReRt interstate interchange, this area of land tce shall be designed specifically to accommodate and promote highway commercial land uses. Particular effort must be made to ensure that access management for the supporting transportation network is a key priority as the function of the interstate and primary road network is of paramount importance. Aceess te the—areas ef inteFstateeeffiffiereial land shallHses be eaFef lly .,..sigR_d. The building and site layout and design of the projects shall be of a high quality. In addition, an enhanced buffer and landscaping is planned aFea shall be pFevided adjacent to the Interstate 81 right-of-way, its ramps, afrd the new arterial road Akre South Frederick Parkway;, and adjacent to Route 11. WHITE OAK WOODS NEIGHBORHOOD VILLAGE The White Oak Woods Neighborhood Village is a neighborhood village commercial area that is proposed at White Oak Road and Route 277. This area should bewhieh s sensitive to the existing character and scale of the location, adjacent to Sherando Park and the White Oak Campground. The orientation of this neighborhood commercial shall be to the park and adjoining street network. A new fire and rescue facility and community facility shall provide an additional focal point to this area. This facility and the commercial land uses shall be of a general scale and context similar to projects such as Creekside. High quality building and site design is a priority. Accessory residential uses are only permitted as an accessory component of the neighborhood village commercial land uses. TASKER WOODS The Tasker Woods area provides guidance on the future land use for a" 8 the areas between Route 522, Tasker Road, and White Oak Road. An area of neighborhood village commercial is proposed between the originally proposed residential areas and Route 522, serving the Tasker Woods area. Access Management is a priority along the Route 522 corridor. An internal access road serving this area was has been provided with the Tasker Woods project herefore, no new commercial entrances shall be permitted on Route 522. Aeeess111laigagefflei9t is—a--pFieFity ales the rite —5Z r A significant corridor appearance buffer is proposed along Route 522 similar to that established for Route 50 West corridor in the Round Hill Land Use Plan. This buffer should consist of a whoeh e rs+sted ef a 50 -foot landscaped buffer area, landseaping, and bike path. AeeesseFy esidential uses are only permitted as an accessory component of the neighborhood village commercial land uses within this the NeighbeFheed Village area. The area of natural resources connecting Tasker Woods with Route 522, including the existing pond shall continue to be recognized in this plan. An extension of the neighborhood Southern Frederick Area Plan 30 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS commercial land uses may be appropriate on the east and west sides of the existing pond if a balance is achieved between protecting the environmental features and allowing compatible neighbeFheed eeffiffier uses, which may also include commercial recreational uses. In addition to the neighborhood village commercial land uses, an area of commercial land use is proposed generally north of Tasker Road - this expands on previously planned commercial uses in this area. aFea ,n Tads.. Read Two areas have been identified as recreational and natural resources and have been connected together in an effort to protect the existing natural resources and provide additional recreational opportunities for the Tasker Woods area. LAKESIDE NEIGHBORHOOD VILLAGE The Lakeside Neighborhood Village is proposed along Tasker Road in the Lakeside area, in the vicinity of the BowmanLakesideLibrary. This small-scale commercial area is sensitive to the existing character and scale of the location, theLakesideLibrary, ei94 the adjacent lake, and the historic and natural resources in this area. The orientation of this neighborhood commercial shall be on the southern eppesite side of Tasker Road, opposite to the library and lake and shall be planned with a new street network providing the framework for the new neighborhood. The Bowman Lakeside Library; is an invaluable community facility for the area shall provide a focal point for future development te-three. The commercial land uses shall be of a general scale and context similar to projects such as Creekside. High quality building and site design is a priority. Aeeesseiy Within the core area of the neighborhood village, residential uses are only permitted as an accessory component within tie-mFe aFea. An area of residential land use is proposed to surround the core neighborhood village area that shall be of a higher density geneF,l ARTRIP NEIGHBORHOOD VILLAGE The Villages at Artrip contains approximately 170 acres of land designed as a neo -traditional village community. This neighborhood village was designed to provide an urban feel in what was historically a rural setting. This development was rezoned in 2006 and is anticipated to include a mix of 900 single family homes and townhouses, over 100,000 square feet of retail, as well as numerous restaurants and office space. A future elementary school is proposed in this area which will eigsure that sueh an iffipertant eeffiffiunity faeolity will provide a focal point and valuable community resource for this area of new development. WARRIOR & TASKER NEIGHBORHOOD VILLAGE The Warrior and Tasker Neighborhood Village proposed along Warrior Drive, adjacent to the intersection of Warrior Drive and Tasker Road. This small-scale commercial area is sensitive to the existing residential character of the area, in particular the scale of the adjacent neighborhoods, yet seeks to build upon the existing commercial character of this intersection. The commercial land uses shall be of a general scale and context similar to projects such as Creekside. High quality building and Southern Frederick Area Plan 31 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS site design is a priority. AeeesseFy 'esidential uses are only permitted as an accessory component of the neighborhood village commercial land uses within the core area. DEFINED RURAL AREAS The Southern Frederick Area Plan has sought to further define the boundary between the rural and urban areas of the community. As noted, the above areas of proposed land use combine to frame the southern boundary of the County's urban areas. In addition, the rural areas to the east of Route 522 south further define the boundary of the County's urban area in this location. The plan provides enhanced recognition of Double Church Agricultural and Forestal District, which provide for a . This Feeegnitien and the leeatien and beHndaFieS E) the pF .,,,sed land Hses fHFtheF pF ete a .dr.-.., separation between the County's rural and urban areas. ARMEL RURAL COMMUNITY CENTER The general location of the AFffled I -I Rural Community Center was identified in earlier versions of the Comprehensive Plan. This community center, along with several other centers, have an important that -a role to play as service centers for the County's rural areas. This ideRtifieatieR was laFgely based en the histeFieal Fele they played te that end. The Southern Frederick Area Plan seeks to further define the Armel Rural Community Center and promote future consideration of this unique area; future development of this area should ensure that it remains, an aFea that should _e ffiain distinct from the general urban development occurring in the urban areas of the Plan. Future policies for this rural community center should reflect the paFtieLfla characteristics of the center and the desires of its residents could be achieved through a broader effort to create small area plan for all of the County's Rural Community Centers. SHERANDO-LAKE FREDERICK TRAILWAY --8Fimthe-Svuc,-rern--rFca ericn-c�Plan, c -i -s; ecyn,-n9renucd that, new multi-purpose pat envisioned to be constructed from the planned lakeside path at Lake Fredrick westward along Crooked Run, connecting into future planned land uses and ultimately intersecting and etheF eeigig eting aFeas te inteF. eet with a Sherando Park path tfi:�-R. This pathway surface should be consistent with that of the Sherando Park paths and trails. The new pathway will connect large segments of planned Southern Frederick trails and provide additional public to access Lake Frederick's lakeside trails and other constructed facilities. Such an environmental and recreational resource would provide an excellent example for other recreational opportunities in the County. RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT Outside of the Sherando Center and Neighborhood Villages described above, the residential land uses in the Southern Frederick study area are defined in two main categories: Southern Frederick Area Plan 32 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS • R4 - these are generally reflective of eHF existing residential densities at approximately 4 units per acre. • R6 - these are slightly higher residential densities that may fall within the 6-12 units per acre range (this is generally attached house and may also include multifamily and a mix of other housing types). These densities are necessary to accommodate the anticipated population growth of the County, with the intent of focusing residential land uses in the urban areas. ._.;ire densities needed te sHppeFt the fHtHFe Fesidential land Hses envisiened On the Plan-. The residential land uses east of Route 522 South within the study area are envisioned to be rural eFea residential in character. Route 522 South may generally be considered as the boundary between the urban areas and rural areas within the eastern part of this study area. This provides a transition area to the Opequon Creek and Wrights Run and to the well-established rural character of adjacent Clarke County. BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT The business development section of the Plan provides recommendations are a intended to implement the 2039 Comprehensive Plan by promoting the efficient utilization of existing and planned land areas and transportation networks. Further, the recommendations promote commercial, industrial, and employment land use areas to assure the County's desired taxable value ratio of 25 percent commercial/industrial to 75 percent residential and other land use is achieved. The Plan provides for new industrial k and employment center areas to match the Frederick County Economic Development Authority's (EDA) ''enqnqissien s vision for this portion of Frederick County. The Plan identifies a prime area for mixed use development, the Sherando Center, to capitalize on future commercial and employment opportunities. In addition, areas are identified for neighborhood village commercial use, migeluding retafl-, to accommodate needs of existing residential communities. The relocation of the Exit 307 Interchange on Interstate 81 provides a significant commercial opportunity that the Plan seeks to take advantage of by identifying the interstate commercial 307 area of land use. The business development recommendations ,deed desirable business types to draw to the area. Including, but not limited to: • Light Industrial/High Tech targeted businesses Southern Frederick Area Plan 33 ._ ._1-111 11111 The business development section of the Plan provides recommendations are a intended to implement the 2039 Comprehensive Plan by promoting the efficient utilization of existing and planned land areas and transportation networks. Further, the recommendations promote commercial, industrial, and employment land use areas to assure the County's desired taxable value ratio of 25 percent commercial/industrial to 75 percent residential and other land use is achieved. The Plan provides for new industrial k and employment center areas to match the Frederick County Economic Development Authority's (EDA) ''enqnqissien s vision for this portion of Frederick County. The Plan identifies a prime area for mixed use development, the Sherando Center, to capitalize on future commercial and employment opportunities. In addition, areas are identified for neighborhood village commercial use, migeluding retafl-, to accommodate needs of existing residential communities. The relocation of the Exit 307 Interchange on Interstate 81 provides a significant commercial opportunity that the Plan seeks to take advantage of by identifying the interstate commercial 307 area of land use. The business development recommendations ,deed desirable business types to draw to the area. Including, but not limited to: • Light Industrial/High Tech targeted businesses Southern Frederick Area Plan 33 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS • Lodging / Event / Dining along the Route 522 corridor and at the interstate • Fast -Casual Dining (EG - Panera, Chipotle) • Higher -end Dining (chain and Local businesses) as well as casual pubs and cafes • Premium Grocery & Retail in the UDA Center area (EG - Wegman's) The business development group also provided the following general comments: • All areas should be designed to promote/support pedestrian and bike access, making this a walkable community. This will decrease reliance on cars and enable residents to more readily access business and employment centers. o To expand the pedestrian & bike access the undeveloped land zoned as Natural Resource / Flood Plain should include walking/biking trails. • Identify ways to leverage abundant supply of natural gas in the RT 522 corridor. • Determine if incentives to rezone to commercial uses for landowners with agricultural zoned property should be made available. • Promote development of small parcels of land that already contain residential structures along transportation corridors for business purposes, examples of which may include doctors, dentist offices, and other professional offices. Promotion could be in the form of incentives or credits to offset the cost of site improvements and transportation improvements required by the site development. • Restaurants and community based businesses such as dry cleaners, convenience stores, and the like, should be located close to and easily accessible by car or by foot to the areas targeted as industrial, commercial and office uses. This could also be within the Sherando Center or neighborhood village commercial areas which are located within accessible distances from these areas. • Identify ways to draw more light manufacturing and targeted economic development businesses to the area around the FBI facility off Tasker Rd. • The Southern Frederick GeHnty area would be a natural fit for various outdoor events and festivals, especially once t#e road and walking path networks have been established enhaneed and more lodging and dining options are available. This type of business has a low impact on the environment and provides an external infusion of revenue. Southern Frederick Area Plan 34 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS Specific implementation steps have been identified which would further promote business development opportunities in the Southern Frederick Area Plan geneFal. This is consistent with those identified in the Senseny/Eastern Frederick County Urban Area Plan. These include: • The creation of a future land use revenue incentive program that could provide pFevides property owners with the ability to sell residential density rights to keep their property available for future employment, commercial, or industrial land use as recommended by the Comprehensive Pe+iey Plan. • Incentivize the property owner with automatic placement of the property into the Sewer and Water Service Area (SWSA) if a rezoning application is processed for future employment, commercial, or industrial land use if capacity and existing infrastructure exists. Assist property owners with applying for State funding to assist in the financing of major road infrastructure needed to serve the development project. Additionally, provide for County -managed support of the major road infrastructure projects to streamline the approval process for project design and construction management. • Incentivize the property owner through the implementation of expedited rezoning processes for future employment, commercial, or industrial land use as recommended by the Comprehensive Pe+iey Plan. • The creation of new Zoning Ordinance requirements that facilitate more intensive Floor to Area Ratios (FAR), and height allowances for future employment, commercial or industrial land use, especially in the urban centers. • The County should support and partner with various athletic organizations to sponsor regional or state tournaments and events using existing facilities to promote tourism in support of existing hotels, restaurants, and attractions. TRANSPORTATION In support of the new areas of land use, a transportation network has been proposed which relates to the location and context of the areas of land use, promotes multi -modal transportation choices and walkability, furthers the efforts of the Win -Fred MPO, and reaffirms the planning done as part of the Route 277 Triangle Area plan. In this study there is a direct nexus between transportation and land use. The relocation of Interstate 81, Exit 307, provides a new orientation for the County's primary road system, and provides new opportunities to create a transportation network which supports the future growth of the community in the right locations. This area is also heavily influenced by the ongoing and future improvements to I-81 Exit 310 and the future extension of Warrior Drive. Minor modifications are proposed to the alignment of the Tasker Southern Frederick Area Plan 35 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS Road flyover of I-81. As Warrior Drive is extended north and connection with future Route 37 is made, the current Route 37 access point with Tasker Road will be disconnected, resulting in a significant shift of traffic flows in this area. As in all transportation elements of the Plan and area plans, all development of new roadways, development along existing roadways and upgrades to existing roadways is planned to implement bicycle and pedestrian accommodations to grow the County's accessibility to all forms of transportation users. Access management is a significant consideration of this study and general transportation planning in Frederick County. This concept is supportive of providing for key connections to the south. The use of frontage roads, minor collector roads, and inter parcel connections to bring traffic to common shared access points is promoted in order to improve safety and efficiency of the County transportation network. Roundabouts will be considered as a priority preference for intersection design. Roundabouts are particularly effective when used in series and when used where intersection spacing may be an issue. The context of the collector road network is proposed to be significantly different with the focus being placed on a more walkable and multi -modal street thoroughfare design. The change in context is based upon classification of road and to ensure compatibility with adjacent land uses and community goals. Particular attention should be paid to street network within the urban centers. The surrounding land use, site design, and building design are features that will help create context and promote the creation of new communities, places, and focal points. Attention should also be provided to the context of the street in the neighborhood village commercial areas to ensure that these prominent locations are safe and accessible to all modes of transportation. Bicycle and pedestrian accommodations should be fully integrated into street designs. Appropriately designed intersection accommodations should include pedestrian refuge islands and pedestrian actualized signals. More specific transportation considerations for Sherando Park include taking a proactive approach in creating safe interconnected routes to the park from the adjacent areas and creating additional access points. Traffic calming across the entire frontage of Sherando Park is warranted with special attention placed on providing a safe and efficient main entrance to the park. As usage of this regional park facility continues to grow this is an increasing need. Consistent application of Comprehensive Plan goals to achieve an acceptable Level of Service (LOC) on area roads and overall transportation network, LOC C or better, should be promoted. Further, efforts should be made to ensure that additional degradation of the transportation beyond an acceptable LOC shall be avoided. Consideration of future development applications within the study area should only occur when an acceptable LOC has been achieved and key elements and connections identified in this plan have been provided. Southern Frederick Area Plan 36 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS The Eastern Road Plan calls for White Oak Road between Tasker Road and Route 277 to be an improved two-lane roadway. While this improvement has partially taken place for the northern portion of the roadway near Tasker Road, the southern portion of White Oak Road to the south remains a winding and narrow roadway which may be difficult and costly to improve. The area plan identifies improvements to White Oak Road in this area which may include its realignment near the Wrights Run stream crossing, passing to the east of and behind the existing residences fronting White Oak Road. Other recommendations from the transportation group: • Emphasize the role of the State and the development community in the implementation of the planned road system. • Use modeling to determine lane needs based upon build out of planned land uses but consider plans of neighboring localities when making recommendations. Consider the needs of bicycle users and pedestrians in the following ways: o Continue to plan for multi -modal street designs that take all users into consideration. o Within residential neighborhoods, this would mean that sidewalks be used, and cyclists share the roads. Use of striping that defines parking bays or cycling areas would be preferred. o On collector roadways or higher, make use of separated multi -use paths at least 10 feet in width. o Incorporate wide shoulders or bike lanes into roadways that have budgetary or right-of-way limitations. This would be viewed as a step toward the ultimate goal of a separated facility. o Make use of paved shoulders with striping on rural roadways as a long-term measure. Rural roadways would be defined by traffic count or as roadways outside of the UDA that are not part of the Primary System (ex. Route 522). o Bike paths should be constructed on the same grade as the adjacent roadway. o Bike path maintenance should be addressed by adjacent property owner groups whenever possible. o Continue to enforce improved access management with redevelopment or new development. This includes, but is not limited to, entrance location and spacing as well as traffic signal location and spacing. • Roundabout use is preferred over signalization of intersections where traffic control is needed. • Attractive median treatments (as alternative to standard grey concrete median) other than grass or other landscaping should be considered when maintenance agreements with VDOT cannot be achieved. Treatments should be reasonably consistent. • Street sections could be modified due to DCR changes specific to drainage requirements. Southern Frederick Area Plan 37 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS NATURAL RESOURCES, HISTORIC RESOURCES, AND PUBLIC FACILITIES NATURAL RESOURCES Frederick County should be a community that understands, values, and protects its natural resources. The natural resources element of the Southern Frederick Area Plan should directly correlate to the Natural Resources chapter of the 2939 Comprehensive Plan. To that end, Frederick County should focus on the creation of greenways, stream valley parks, and stream buffers around waterways. Shared use trails should be constructed that connect these features to other public facilities. Consideration should also be given to creating linear parks with shared use trails along major streams, particularly the Opequon Creek, with buffering vegetation appropriate for preventing erosion, filtering pollutants, and providing wildlife habitat. Recommendations from the Natural Resources Committee are: Shared use trails should provide connections to other shared use trails as well as other public facilities in the study area. New construction within the study area should take into account the natural resources located on and around their property. The County should ensure that when new developments are planned, connectivity of greenways is included through the project. Preserve and maintain existing natural wetlands, woodlands, and grasslands to the maximum feasible extent to provide wildlife habitats for animals and plants. Buffer wetlands and creeks using latest water management principles to promote environmental protection of those localities, stabilize stream banks, and promote such protective steps during residential development throughout the South Frederick GeHi9ty area. All types of urban open spaces like greenways, squares, plazas, urban parks, playgrounds, and street medians should be considered as part of urban development planning and implemented wherever reasonable. Ensure that stormwater is managed in accordance with the County's Erosion and Sediment Control Ordinance and Virginia's storm water Requirements, and work to implement Low Impact Development (LID) measures where appropriate. Provide for best storm water management practices at urban centers, residential developments, and industrial areas to facilitate environmental protection. Protect floodplains and steep slopes from unsuitable uses and recognize their value for stormwater management and ecological functions. Ensure that with new development, people and wildlife are protected from unhealthy levels of noise and light. Southern Frederick Area Plan 38 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS HISTORIC RESOURCES Frederick County should recognize and protect the historic structures and sites within the study area. Sensitive Natural Areas, including historic areas, are shown on the land use map for the study area. The historic element of the Southern Frederick Area Plan should directly correlate to the Historic Resources chapter of the 2939 Comprehensive Plan. To that end, the rehabilitation, adaptive reuse, or restoration of historic structures should be increased and incentivized. The Comprehensive Plan calls for the adaptive reuse of historic structures and therefore, future development applications that have historic resources on the property should incorporate those resources the site into development. -- - - - - -- - - - - -- - -- -- -- - --P-90MIlei MEMM Recommendations from the Historic Resources Advisory Board are: ® Significant structures and properties shown with a sensitive natural/historic designation should be buffered from adjacent development activity. Require archaeological surveys to be conducted prior to development, particularly any that involve battlefield areas, homesteads, Indian encampments, and waterways. The Rural Landmarks Survey should be updated and maintained regularly in order to keep current the inventory of structures older than fifty years. There are at least six historic sites and markers in the Southern Frederick Area Plan. Those sites and markers should be buffered from adjacent development activities and preserved in their original condition whenever possible during any development or land use planning exercises. The Melvin Sandy house is located immediately adjacent to Sherando Park and would be ideal for use as an element of the park. In the event that the sites could not4t eannet be included as paFt ef the paFl , it would be appropriate for the site to develop in a way to protect any structures or features.; accessibility to the park is encouraged. r...'-'.Hrage the ...-ete.-tie n of the .-t.-H..1HFe and ..Feyide a Hse which en..eH.--.ges pa -F. Frederick County should assist property owners that want to register their properties with the State or National Register of Historic Places. Increasing shared use trails throughout the study area would give emphasis to the preservation and rehabilitation of nearby historic sites and structures. Developments should be encouraged to incorporate and/or convert historic properties or sites into recreational elements, including shared use trails, parks, and museums. The Zig-Zag trenches should be preserved and connected via a linear park/trail network to Crosspointe development. Southern Frederick Area Plan 39 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS DevelepeFs Development of any urban center develeped in the study area should provide for the integration, preservation, restoration, rehabilitation, or adaptive reuse of any historic structures sites located within the boundaries of the project. FeSteFatien/ / / / ethei- / / / eHteFeppings, ete COMMUNITY FACILITIES The importance of need fe public spaces and facilities within the study area needs to be aNknewledged recognized and incorporated into future development. The public facility element of the Southern Frederick Area Plan should directly correlate to the Public Facilities chapter of the 2939 Comprehensive Plan. The public facilities element should also expand upon the existing 2039 Comprehensive Plan and ensure that opportunities for needed public facilities, which are not currently identified, are not overlooked Wised. Recommendations from the public facilities group are: • The need for future facilities for Schools, Fire & Rescue, and Parks and Recreation i9eeds should be identified in this Plan, the CIP and incorporated into development proposals as appropriate. • The County should focus on the development of the north side of Sherando Park • Ensure connectivity with existing or proposed bicycle or pedestrian transportation aeeeffiffiedatmeRs wherever possible. • Pedestrian facilities should be constructed that connect neighborhoods to school and park facilities to promote accessibility and walkability. • Trails should be planned and constructed that connect Sherando Park, the proposed South Frederick Parkway and Lake Frederick (see the Sherando-Lake Frederick Trailway example described in the land use section). • A trail network should be constructed around the Lake at the Bowman Library. • Linear parks should be constructed along creeks where permissible due to topography. • A new fire & rescue station is needed within the study area; this facility would provide an additional focal point to the White Oak Woods Neighborhood Village area. • The 13 -acre parcel owned by the Frederick County adjacent to Bass Hoover Elementary should be planned as a combined school, park and recreation facility. • / SheFande need te be HpgFaded as e4lined On the GIP. New schools identified in this Southern Frederick Area Plan 40 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS Plan and in the CIP should be pursued and may be used as focal points for future community development. Existing schools should also be upgraded as identified in the CIP. ZONING AMENDMENTS TO IMPLEMENT THE PLAN REVISED/MORE FLEXIBLE B2 OVERLAY CONCEPT Neighborhood Village Commercial areas are envisioned to be compact commercial centers that focus and complement the surrounding neighborhoods, are walkable and designed at a human scale, and which are supported by existing and planned road networks. esidential uses within the neighborhood Villages are only permitted as an accessory component of the commercial land uses within the core area. However, the residential uses are allowed in a variety of configurations and are not just limited to the second and third floors of commercial buildings. They may also be located in separated buildings, again provided that they are accessory to the commercial uses. This provides a greater amount of flexibility with the residential design, while still affording the commercial land uses primary status. Previously, residential land uses were only permitted on the second floor and above commercial buildings. TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD DESIGN ZONING CLASSIFICATION This flexible zoning classification is intended to enable Neighborhood and Urban Village Centers, or a part thereof, to be developed. 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This plan encompasses both of these areas. The plan has two primary goals - first, to protect and enhance the character of the established rural community center and second, to create a vibrant, functional and well- designed commercial center. While the two areas are distinct, this plan seeks to link them by efficient roads and multi-purpose trails and sidewalks and to locate a park and other public facilities in the Round Hill Community for the benefit of both the residents and the workers. As with previous versions of the Round Hill Community Land Use Plan, a key goal of this plan is to provide public sewer and water access for the existing residents of the Round Hill community. LAND USE Round Hill Rural Community Center The core of the long established Round Hill Rural Community Center consists primarily of residences. In the past, a number of small businesses have been located in the core area, but few of these remain today. The development pattern established in the Round Hill Rural Community Center consists of both small lots along Round Hill Road, Poorhouse Road, Woodchuck Lane and other roads, and the larger lots and small farms on the periphery. Both residential patterns should continue. The farms and large lots on the periphery of the Round Hill Rural Community Center should be maintained to preserve the rural character. In order to further preserve the existing character of the area, no part of the Round Hill Rural Community Center should have high density housing. Most residential lots in the Round Hill Rural Community Center are less than one-half acre. These residential lots contain single family detached housing on wells and septic with reduced front yard setbacks. This historic development pattern cannot be accommodated within the existing RA (Rural Areas) Zoning District, which allows one residence for every five acres and requires primary and reserve drainfield areas. A new zoning district should be created to accommodate infill development that is in character with the area. Such a district should address housing types, lot sizes and setbacks. The new zoning district should also address design standards for street trees, curb -side parking, signage, lighting and underground utilities. The new zoning district could allow for modest commercial/retail uses (with discreet signage) to serve surrounding residents. In recent years, new residential development in Round Hill has been limited due to private health system requirements. Expansion of the Sewer and Water Service Area (SWSA) in 2006 has given the opportunity for some existing residents to connect to public water and sewer, at the property owner's expense. Once a new zoning district is adopted to accommodate in -fill development, the County will need to re-examine the SWSA boundary to determine whether any other areas in the Round Hill Rural Community Center should be Round Hill Community Land Use Plan 47 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS enabled to connect to public water and sewer services. Rezonings to the new district should not be allowed prior to the availability of public water and sewer. DEVELOPING COMMERCIAL AREAS Commercial, medical support, medical offices, educational, and public use development are important components of the Round Hill Community Land Use Plan. Historically, highway commercial uses have located along Route 50 (Northwestern Pike). These uses include gas stations, car dealers, restaurants, and small retail establishments. Some of these uses still exist. In more recent years, Round Hill Crossing (including the large Wal-Mart center) has begun to develop on the north side of Route 50. This 70 -acre site will ultimately accommodate retail, restaurant, and business development. The Winchester Medical Center - West Campus, with 102 -acres to the east of Round Hill Crossing, has both a retail component along Route 50 and a medical component. The northern portion of the Medical Center's West Campus is zoned MS (Medical Support) District. Together these two large developments have changed the nature of land development along Route 50. Large-scale commercial development is now a dominating presence in the Round Hill Community. Growth and development should be carefully planned to take advantage of the close proximity of the Winchester Medical Center. Two distinct types of commercial development are evolving in the Round Hill Community- a general commercial area along both sides of Route 50 and a medical support and education area located on the north side of Route 50. The general commercial areas already under development on both sides of Route 50 function as a gateway to and from the City of Winchester. Therefore, an objective of this plan is to create an attractive, functional commercial area and to prevent the creation of a typical commercial strip. Consolidated entrances are strongly encouraged to avoid multiple entrances along Route 50. Inter -parcel connections will be necessary for the small lots to develop. Standards have already been developed that will minimize the visual disruption to the Route 50 corridor (see Figure 13A). These include standards for shared entrances, inter -parcel connectors, green spaces along Route 50, screening of parking areas, screening between commercial properties and existing residences, size, number and location of signs, underground utilities, and landscaping. These standards strongly discourage individual business entrances both for aesthetic reasons as well as for transportation safety and efficiency. Major commercial establishments should connect to Route 50 at signalized intersections. A continuation of the general commercial area is planned in the vicinity of Ward Avenue and Stonewall Drive. As this area redevelops, new developments will be expected to follow the Route 50 standards (Figure 13A) that apply to small parcels on the south side of Route 50. Consolidation of these small parcels is the key to redeveloping this area. A minor collector road, to join Round Hill Road (Route 803) and Ward Avenue, is planned to funnel traffic to two key intersections on Route 50. Round Hill Community Land Use Plan 48 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS Figure 13A Street trees in the median, along both sides of the ditch. Freestanding business signs - one monument style sign per development (Maximum size - 50 feet, maximum height - 12 feet). Crosswalks at signalized intersections, with signals for pedestrians. Interparcel connectors required between all properties planned for commercial development (even if currently zoned RA and used for residential purposes) to encourage shared entrances. Commercial entrance spacing - Commercial entrances are strongly discouraged on Route 50. A row of evergreens in addition to the ordinance -required buffer and screening adjacent to areas planned to remain residential. Underground utilities. Placement of buildings close to Route 50 with landscaped parking lots in the rear. North side of Route 50: 50 -foot landscaped strip, within the landscaped strip a ten -foot asphalt bike and pedestrian trail, ornamental shrubs and street trees along Route 50. South side of Route 50: 50 -foot landscaped strip (20 feet for small tracts) within the landscaped strip a five-foot concrete pedestrian sidewalk, ornamental shrubs and street trees along Route 50. Due to its close proximity to the Winchester Medical Center, the north side of Route 50 offers a unique opportunity to accommodate medical support, medical offices, educational, public use, and commercial uses. Therefore, the Round Hill Community Land Use Plan should provide for large campus style development of the north side of Route 50 for medical support, medical office, educational, public use, and commercial uses. A number of large open tracts of land exist in this location. The campus style development should provide for boulevard street designs, street trees, bicycle and pedestrian paths, and connectivity between development and common green space gathering areas. In order to minimize areas of impervious surface, decked or structured parking or increased building heights may be warranted. High quality building designs and materials are expected. Small plazas at the building entrances or in the center of a group of buildings are suggested. Site design standards are expected to exceed those established for the Route 50 corridor (Figure 13A). Coordinated signage, lighting and street furniture are sought. Round Hill Community Land Use Plan 49 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS All of the commercial areas in Round Hill should provide commercial services and employment opportunities that are accessible to the residents within the Round Hill Rural Community Center via alternative modes of transportation, such as pedestrian and bicycle facilities. Enhanced accessibility is anticipated through the connection of such areas to the existing residential areas by a network of multi-purpose trails, sidewalks and intersections with pedestrian actualized signals. TRANSPORTATION The County's Eastern Road Plan and the Win -Fred Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) 2030 TFanspeFtatien 2040 Metropolitan Transportation Plan call for Route 50 to be improved to a six -lane minor arterial road between Route 37 and Poorhouse Road (Route 654). West of Poorhouse Road, Route 50 is planned as a four -lane minor arterial. Sidewalks are planned on the south side of Route 50 and multi-purpose trails on the north side. Developments along Route 50 will be expected to incorporate these road improvements. As noted in the Transportation Chapter of the Plan, as all road projects and development or redevelopment take place, the development and associated transportation facilities should be accessible to all users. A north/south collector road, parallel to Route 37, is included in the Route 37 West Land Use Plan. This road is also incorporated into the County's Eastern Road Plan with a connection back to the Winchester Medical Center interchange. A section of this road, Botanical Boulevard, is being built with the Winchester Medical Center — West Campus development on the north side of Route 50. Should properties further to the north develop, this road sheHld could eventually connect to Route 522 (North Frederick Pike). An east/west collector road, parallel to Route 50 is also included in the Eastern Road Plan. A section of this road, Petticoat Gap Lane, has been proffered with the Round Hill Crossing development. This road is envisioned as an urban divided four -lane cross-section that includes landscaped medians, controlled left turns, street trees, and pedestrian and bicycle facilities, to enhance transportation on the north side of Route 50. Development proposals will need to accommodate the continuation of this collector road. The location shown on the plan is general, with the precise location of the east -west collector road remaining flexible. A new north/south major collector road is planned through the Winchester Medical Center - West Campus that will serve the West Campus and provide access to the future Route 37 interchange located north of Round Hill. While this road is envisioned as an urban divided four -lane road that includes landscaped medians as well as pedestrian and bicycle facilities subjected to projected traffic generation, it may initially be built as a two-lane road because development to the north may not occur for many years, if at all. The location shown on the plan is general, with the precise location of the north -south collector road remaining flexible. Vehicular management access is recommended throughout the Round Hill Rural Community Center, particularly along Route 50. A six -lane arterial road should not include multiple access points. Ideally, primary vehicular access should be limited to previously established intersections along Route 50 with additional commercial entrances Round Hill Community Land Use Plan 50 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS planned at appFepFiate inteFvals as allowable by established access management standards to facilitate safe and efficient traffic movement. Noted throughout this plan is the requirement for alternative modes of transportation, such as pedestrian and bicycle facilities. The plan calls for an interconnected system of multi- purpose trails and sidewalks. It is critical that these alternative modes of transportation link the entire Round Hill Rural Community Center. " f t Fe ` inehesteF Medical GenteF inteFn,' an appropriate time, the County should also encourage the extension of existing bus routes to serve the area. Ideally, bus stops should be located at all of the commercial centers. The development of new road systems, new signalization and improvements to existing road systems are all elements of this plan. It will be the responsibility of private property owners and developers to ensure that these improvements are made. As rezonings are considered, they should be evaluated to ensure that the transportation impacts of development will be mitigated and the improvements facilitate the goals of the Comprehensive Policy Plan. As with all areas of the County, Level of Service "C" should be maintained on roads adjacent to and within new developments. ENVIRONMENT A number of environmental features are found in the Round Hill Community. The area is dominated by two major natural features - Round Hill itself, which is west of Poorhouse Road and a north/south ridgeline. The ridgeline, west of Round Hill Crossing, is highly visible and should be sensitively developed. Ponds, streams and floodplains are present and will need to be taken into consideration so as to minimize and/or mitigate negative impacts with any future development. These natural areas provide an obvious location for a trail system. HISTORICAL RESOURCES Round Hill is one of the older settlements in Frederick County. The original village was located at the base of Round Hill. The community today includes a small number of eighteenth and nineteenth century dwellings. Approximately 30 late -nineteenth century and early -to -mid twentieth century houses, primarily American Foursquares and I -houses are located in the area. The mid -nineteenth century Round Hill Presbyterian Church and the early -twentieth century Round Hill School (now used as a residence) are also located in this community. Protection of these historic structures is encouraged. PUBLIC UTILITIES A fundamental issue for the development of Round Hill has been the provision of public water and sewer. Development of the area is dependent on the availability of appropriate infrastructure. The Sewer and Water Service Area (SWSA) has been expanded to portions of the Round Hill Rural Community Center several times in recent years. This plan does not recommend rezoning land within the Round Hill Rural Community Center for commercial development prior to the availability of central sewer and water. It is also recommended Round Hill Community Land Use Plan 51 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS that as land is developed over time and infrastructure extended, that new developments further the goal of providing sewer and water to the core residential area of the Round Hill Rural Community. Future development should facilitate the availability of sewer and water in two ways - the sizing of utility pipes to insure capacity for all of the Round Hill Rural Community Center, and providing utility easements so that adjacent property owners have the ability to extend and connect to public water and sewer. The Round Hill area will ultimately be served by two wastewater treatment plants. The area immediately west of Route 37, including Winchester Medical Center - West Campus and Round Hill Crossing are currently served by the Opequon Water Reclamation Facility. The transmission lines serving this facility have limited capacity. Therefore, future development south of Route 50 and also west of Round Hill Crossing are planned to be served by the Parkins Mill Wastewater Treatment Plant. Future development proposals will need to demonstrate that sufficient sewer capacity exists. Water lines exist on Route 50 in the area of Round Hill Crossing and the Winchester Medical Center - West Campus. These water lines have sufficient capacity to provide the volume of water identified in the Round Hill Community Land Use Plan; however, they do not have sufficient pressure. To provide adequate pressure, existing line pressure will have to be boosted and water storage provided. PUBLIC FACILITIES Public facilities to serve new development in the Round Hill Community may be required in the future. It will be necessary for future development to provide a site for such public facilities. PARKS The Round Hill Community has one neighborhood park, at the Round Hill Volunteer Fire & Rescue Station. A children's play area is maintained by the Frederick County Department of Parks and Recreation and the fire company maintains a ball field. The scope of this park could be expanded, possibly with the relocation of the fire station. The commercial, medical support, and institutional land uses north of Route 50 should include a new park, ideally in the area of the large pond. This park would be visible from Route 50 and could serve as the visual focal point of the entire Round Hill Community. The park should be a passive recreational facility with trails, benches and outdoor eating areas. The park should be designed to serve both onsite workers and residents of the Round Hill Rural Community Center. A linear trail could also link this park to the smaller pond to the north. The Park's trail/sidewalk network should be the interconnected trail system as described in the transportation section. Consideration should be given to establishing a trail along the ridgeline between Route 50 and Route 522 and a trail at the southern edge of the Round Hill Community to link to the Green Circle in the City of Winchester. Round Hill Community Land Use Plan 52 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS RECREATION AND CONFERENCE COMMERCIAL COMMUNITY Through the 2009 Comprehensive Policy Plan Amendment process, the Frederick County Board of Supervisors endorsed the evaluation of an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan to include the property that is home to the Rock Harbor Golf Course. The following land use policy, along with the updated land use map, is the resulting amendment and is known as the Rock Harbor Amendment to the Round Hill Land Use Plan. GUIDING PRINCIPLES The amendment to the plan has two primary goals - first, to establish a new area of land use that would specifically promote the recreational attributes of this area in conjunction with the open spaces associated with the existing Rock Harbor Golf Course, and second, to create a well-designed Conference Facility integrated with limited commercial land uses with an orientation to the Golf Course and future Route 37 interchange, and limited accessory membership residential land use to sustain the viability of the Rock Harbor Golf Course. The goals of the Plan seek to enable the development of land uses which will provide economic development, tourism, and entertainment benefits to the Community and to Frederick County, and further promote the Rock Harbor Golf Course. The addition of Rock Harbor area to the Round Hill Land Use Plan creates a third distinct area of land use for the Round Hill Community which will join with the Community's other two distinct areas; the long established Round Hill Rural Community Center focused around Round Hill Road (Route 803) and the developing commercial and medical support area along Route 50 (Northwestern Pike). The Rock Harbor area of the Round Hill Land Use Plan is west of, and adjacent to, the West Jubal Early Land Use Plan. The addition of this area will promote a connectivity of land uses and access between the two important land use plans with a focus on the future West Jubal Early Interchange. This plan also encompasses the area of existing quarry operation, providing recognition to this very important area of Extractive Manufacturing and guidance with regards to future development adjacent to the quarry. Additional protections in the form of distance and buffering should be provided for any new land uses on the Rock Harbor Golf Course, particularly for any accessory membership residential land uses. Like the other two areas, this plan seeks to link to the community by providing access to efficient roads, multi-purpose trails and sidewalks, and public water and sewer for the benefit of both the residents of this Community and those adjacent citizens who may work or recreate in the area. As with previous versions of the Round Hill Community Land Use Plan, a key goal of this plan is to provide public sewer and water access for the existing residents of the Round Hill community. LAND USE ROUND HILL COMMERCIAL RECREATION LAND USE The intent of the Commercial Recreation land use designation shall be to provide for carefully planned commercially driven recreational land uses which take advantage of Round Hill Community Land Use Plan 53 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS existing recreational amenities (36 -hole golf course) and enhances the economic development opportunities of the area through conference facilities, lodging, commercial activities, and a limited amount of accessory membership residential opportunities. Growth and development of this area should be carefully planned to take advantage of the existing commercial recreation land uses, Rock Harbor Golf Course, the close proximity of the Winchester Medical Center, and the adjacent areas of planned land use. The Commercial Recreation land use designation is envisioned to have a balance of land uses that promote the recreational component as the primary land use. The recreational component should be located in close proximity (within one mile) of an existing Route 37 Interchange and contain a major open space component. Compatible commercial ventures such as conference facilities, lodging opportunities, restaurants, and limited accessory retail would also be appropriate in this setting. The Robinson Property shall contain only the compatible commercial ventures component of the land use designation as identified above. Development of the Robinson Property should only occur at the same time as, or in conjunction with the Rock Harbor project. Balance of land uses Recreational - 36 -hole golf course (minimum # of holes) Open Space - 60 percent of land area (minimum area including golf course) Commercial - 30 percent of land area (maximum area) This area of commercial shall include a conference facility. Accessory membership residential - 10 percent of land area (maximum area) The introduction of the accessory residential land uses may occur prior to the development of the commercial land uses and the Conference Facility. It is recommended that the regulations guiding the development of the commercial recreation area promote the balance of land uses identified above that are owned and operated by the Rock Harbor Golf Course without further subdivision of the property. COMMUNITY FACILITIES In order to promote high quality low impact design, the commercial recreation land use designation should promote energy efficient design and development, including achieving LEED certification, or certification from a similar program, as a project. Areas of impervious surface in conjunction with the development should be minimized and alternative irrigation techniques should be promoted. Innovative water and sewer design to this project is necessary due to the limited resources available to the County. Alternative approaches with regards to water resources and reuse of water and wastewater should be provided with this project. This project should provide Round Hill Community Land Use Plan 54 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS additional resources to the community and facilitate the provision of water and sewer resources to the Round Hill Community, in particular to the existing residents, rather than detract from the FCSA's ability to provide these resources. It is essential to ensure that the infrastructure and the necessary community facilities are provided in a timely and coordinated manner in order to enable the successful implementation of the land use plan. Therefore, it is expected that the commercial recreation land use application is developed with public water and sewer infrastructure and this application participates in the regional planning and infrastructure development needs of the Round Hill Community. This participation may include infrastructure improvements that exceed those generated solely by this project but are designed to advance the needs of the Round Hill Community. DESIGN High quality building designs and materials are expected. An objective of this plan is to create an attractive, functional commercial area and to prevent the creation of a typical commercial strip, from the perspective of a new interchange on Route 37. Unattractive development along Route 37 frontage should be avoided. From this perspective, the golf course and future conference and lodging facilities should be preserved and be the prominent features. Additional commercial and residential land uses should be avoided directly adjacent to Route 37. The recreational viewshed should be promoted with the golf course and future conference facilities highly visible. This may include a linear area of open space adjacent to Route 37 (500 feet distance). This area of open space should not be extended to the area surrounding the proposed interchange which is an area where appropriately designed development is anticipated. TRANSPORTATION The County's Eastern Road Plan and the Win -Fred Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) 2939 2040 Metropolitan Transportation Plan calls for Route 37 Jubal Early Interchange improvement. This project has been endorsed through recent rezoning approvals. This land use plan will ultimately provide direct access to the Route 37 interchange at this location. Access to the Round Hill Community to the North is also encouraged and may be established prior to the completion of the Jubal Early Interchange if supported by an approved TIA (Transportation Impact Analysis). Notwithstanding this, the development of this property should participate in the implementation of the Route 37 interchange to the extent that it is warranted as a primary transportation focus. A new multi-purpose trail system is planned through the Round Hill Community to serve the area and provide access and connectivity with the West Jubal Early Community. The location shown on the plan is general, with the precise location of the trail connection remaining flexible. However, access should provide a connection generally from west of Route 37 to east of Route 37 as depicted on the map. It would be preferable to have the trail connectivity located on the proposed sewer infrastructure parallel to the north of the railroad tracks. This should occur in conjunction with the construction of the interchange if possible and under the existing Abrams Creek and Rail Bridge. At a minimum, bicycle and pedestrian awareness should be incorporated into the design and signage of the Round Hill Community Land Use Plan 55 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS interchange. Trail connectivity to West Jubal Early Land Use Plan and the City of Winchester Green Circle is very important. IMPLEMENTATION SWSA BOUNDARY Preferred Alternative: The SWSA boundary shall be modified around the boundaries of the Rock Harbor property (and the Robinson property) as identified in this map. This assumes an expectation of development with public water and sewer, as well as regional planning and participation in community facilities development will be addressed during the rezoning process. In addition, this ultimately assumes the ability of community to obtain future water and sewer resources. The SWSA boundary expansion would be the preferred alternative. This is the approach preferred and endorsed by both the PC and the CPPC and approved by the BOS. Outcome: The addition of approximately 265.5 acres (with Robinson) into the Sewer and Water Service Area (SWSA). ZONING DESIGNATION A new zoning district or overlay district could be created to accommodate such a balance of land uses and could address housing types and dimensional standards. Preferred Alternative: Recreation and Conference Commercial District or Overlay District - Zoning Designation specifically designed to implement this balance of land uses and associated performance standards. This is the approach preferred and endorsed by both the PC and the CPPC and approved by the BOS. Round Hill Community Land Use Plan 56 N E U `o o o o Q Q V V 1 Q � Q � V � V � f`•: L `o `o `o `o 0 LLI APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS WESTERN JUBAL EARLY LAND USE PLAN BOARD OF SUPERVISORS -Approved on January 11, 2006 Western Jubal Early Land Use Plan 58 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS GUIDING PRINCIPLES theF ve=;,s little bHt F. Fffiland The Western Jubal Early Land Use Plan details a new community that consists of approximately 600 acres. The area contains sensitive environmental features, and these will be preserved. This new community will contain both residential and commercial uses. The community will be linked by an efficient road system, multi-purpose trails and sidewalks. LAND USE RESIDENTIAL The land included within the Western Jubal Early Land Use Plan (WJELUP) represents a transitional area between the City of Winchester and the rural areas of western Frederick County. The WJELUP area is distinguished by its pristine environmental resources and prime farmland soils and has, therefore, historically supported both agricultural and low- density residential land uses. Adjoining land within the City of Winchester has developed extensively with urban and suburban residential uses, most notably within the Meadow Branch, Morlyn Hills, Meadow Branch South, and Orchard Hill subdivisions. Additionally, suburban residential land use has been established within the UDA adjacent and north of the WJELUP area through the Merriman's Chase subdivision. The predominant land uses envisioned within the WJELUP area are urban and suburban residential uses. The residential designation is intended to continue the established land use pattern in the vicinity of the WJELUP area. As such, new residential development within the WJELUP area is expected to consist primarily of single family detached and single-family small lot units and be compatible with the design of existing residential uses on adjoining property. The gross residential density for residential developments within the WJELUP area should not exceed four dwelling units per acre. COMMERCIAL This plan calls for commercial uses to balance, service and complement the residential uses. Areas for commercial land use are designated along the planned route of the Jubal Early Drive extension and near the intersection of Cedar Greek Grade and Route 37. These areas are intended to provide commercial services and employment opportunities that are accessible for residents within the WJELUP area and the adjacent community via alternative modes of transportation, such as pedestrian and bicycle facilities. Enhanced accessibility is anticipated through the connection of such areas to the surrounding residential neighborhoods by a network of multi-purpose trails and sidewalks. The commercial component is envisioned to consist of neighborhood scale commercial uses and high-end office uses. Priority will be given to neighborhood scale commercial uses as these will serve the needs of residents and create focal points for the new community. Strip commercial development is strongly discouraged. Consolidated entrances will be encouraged to avoid multiple entrances along Jubal Early Drive, Cedar Creek Grade, and the new collector road. Western Jubal Early Land Use Plan 59 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS TRANSPORTATION Future road networks are proposed for the WJELUP area which will link it to Jubal Early Drive, Route 37, and Cedar Creek Grade (Refit= The Plan and the Win -Fred Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) 2030 TFanspeFtatien Pla+r2040 Metropolitan Transportation Plan calls for the extension of Jubal Early Drive to Route 37. It calls for a new diamond interchange at Route 37 and Jubal Early Drive, with a realignment of Merrimans Lane. Extensive design work has taken place on the interchange and roadway extensions. The extension of Jubal Early Drive and the interchange at Route 37 are critical to addressing regional transportation problems. This plan, therefore, incorporates the extension of Jubal Early Drive as an east/west through road and the construction of the interchange at Route 37. The extension of Jubal Early Drive through this portion of the UDA is envisioned as an urban divided four lane cross-section that includes landscaped medians as well as pedestrian and bicycle facilities. The MPO Plan also calls for Cedar Creek Grade to be widened to a four -lane section from the city limits to Merrimans Lane, with signalized ramps at the intersection of Cedar Creek Grade and Route 37. The Frederick County Comprehensive Peliey Plan Bicycle Plan also identifies Cedar Creek Grade as a short-term destination route. Therefore, this plan incorporates improvements to Cedar Creek Grade, to a four -lane divided highway collector road with a bicycle lane or ideally a separate bike path, and improvements to the interchange at Route 37 and Cedar Creek Grade. A major collector road, as included in the MPO Plan, is planned to facilitate traffic movement in a north south direction to provide a connection between Jubal Early Drive and Cedar Creek Grade. This boulevard style road is envisioned as an urban divided four lane cross- section that includes landscaped medians as well as pedestrian and bicycle facilities. The location shown on the plan is general with the precise location of the north -south collector road remaining flexible. The development of new road systems, including a new interchange at Route 37, new signalization and improvements to existing road systems are all elements of this plan. It will be the responsibility of private property owners and developers to ensure that these improvements are made. The financial responsibility will rest primarily with private property owners and developers, although they may be able to demonstrate how a partnership, possibly with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), the City and/or the County will accomplish the necessary road improvements. the GeHnty is eeFtain that as always, the evaluation of rezonings should consider whether the transportation impacts of development will be mitigated. Another critical transportation component of the WJELUP is alternative modes of transportation, such as pedestrian and bicycle facilities. This plan, therefore, calls for an interconnected system of multi-purpose trails and sidewalks in addition to those which should be included as part of roadway improvement/development. The County should also encourage the extension of existing bus routes to serve the area when timing is deemed appropriate. Ideally, : bus stops wH4 be located at the commercial centers and within the development. Western Jubal Early Land Use Plan 60 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS ENVIRONMENT The WJELUP designates environmental resources associated with the Abrams Creek corridor as Sensitive Natural Areas (SNA). These areas should be preserved through the development process with improvements limited to required road crossings and passive recreational amenities. A large sinkhole in the area has been filled and improvements to this area may also need to be restricted to required road crossings and passive recreational amenities. A conservation -oriented approach to the design of residential and commercial projects within the WJELUP area is encouraged to maximize SNA preservation. As such, the precise study and identification of SNA designated resources should occur as a critical first step in the design process for all development in the WJELUP area. Completion of this resource inventory and the delineation of preservation areas are to be followed and accommodated by layouts and engineering for building sites, lots, drainage and infrastructure. Full gross density credit will be provided for SNA designated land conserved through the development process. A portion of the Green Circle Trail, as developed by the City of Winchester, has been constructed on the north side of the Winchester Western Railroad. The WJELUP envisions completion of this portion of the trail to Merrimans Lane. Additionally, a connector trail should be developed that extends from the existing trail to Cedar Creek Grade as an enhancement to the Green Circle Trail. The connecting trail should be located to enhance the interaction of the user with any environmental features or view sheds that are conserved through implementation of the WJELUP. The pedestrian/bicycle network developed in the WJELUP area should provide for a continuous flow from the Green Circle. HISTORICAL RESOURCES Two known historic houses are located within the WJELUP area. The Baker, Jacob House (750 House) is located in the northwestern corner. The Virginia Department of Historic Resources (VDHR) had determined that the Baker, Jacob House is eligible for the Virginia Landmarks Register and the State and National Register of Historic Places. Protection of this building is strongly encouraged. One potentially significant historic structure is located in the southwestern corner of the WJELUP area. The house is identified in the Lake's Atlas of 1885 as the Stuart Brown House and has been identified as a potentially significant property in the Frederick County Rural Landmarks Survey (#34-1239). Protection of this structure is also encouraged. EDUCATION/ PUBLIC FACILITIES The WJELUP area contains over 600 acres, and the majority of this land is envisioned to be developed for residential uses. It is estimated that up to 2,400 dwellings could be built in the study area. This could generate up to 1,680 new students for the Frederick County School System. This number of students concentrated in such a small area is unprecedented in the western part of Frederick County. It will be incumbent upon future development within the WJELUP area to provide a site for school facilities, to mitigate the impact of the large number of school children resulting from development in the WJELUP Western Jubal Early Land Use Plan 61 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS area. This is consistent with the Community Facilities and Services policies in the Comprehensive Pelmey Plan. Any school should be sited centrally within the study area to enable the maximum number of students to walk or bike to school. Schools quickly become the focus of a new community when they are at the center of the community. The final location and alignment of any school site should remain flexible to ensure that it conforms to final engineering studies and School Board considerations. It may also be necessary to provide other public facilities in this area to serve this new development. It would then be necessary for future development to provide a site for other public facilities to mitigate the impact of the large number of residents resulting from development in this area. PARKS The WJELUP area should contain a well-defined park and open space system for both active and passive recreation. Central to this open space will be the Abrams Creek corridor which should be preserved as a sensitive natural area. Neighborhood parks should also be located within the study area. As defined in the Comprehensive Pelmey Plan, neighborhood parks provide limited types of recreation for the entire family within easy walking distance. Examples of potential facilities in a neighborhood park include a playground, a swimming pool and tennis courts. The neighborhood parks should be located near the school and or neighborhood center and away from major streets. Also, part of the park network will be the interconnected trail system as described above. Western Jubal Early Land Use Plan 62 OProposed Interchanges Eastern Road Plan • ♦�• New Major Arterial Improved Major Arterial • \�• New Minor Arterial Improved Minor Arterial • �sy New Major Collector Improved Major Collect, •�+i; New Minor Collector Improved Minor Collectc Ramp Roundabout e Trails 9 �� • Urban Development Area Sewer and Water Service Area Land Use Legend OBusiness O Commercial Recreation O Sensitive Natural Areas Extractive Mining Natural Resources & Recreation Rural Community Center O Residential A 46� C�e�s ek Y of hesfer N W*-. �M`i 4ti CpG 4._ S 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map Draft APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS ROUTE 37 WEST LAND USE PLAN Route 37 West Land Use Plan 64 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS ROUTE 37 WEST LAND USE PLAN Recent land use decisions and development trends have drawn attention to the land within the Route 37 western by-pass area between Route 50 and Route 522. In 1996, 50 acres adjacent to Route 37 and Route 50 were rezoned for commercial use, while land adjacent to Route 37 and Amherst Street within the City of Winchester has continued to develop to accommodate the Winchester Medical Center and the Shenandoah University Pharmaceutical School. It has been indicated that build -out of the site within the City of Winchester is inevitable, if development associated with these uses continues at its current rate. In 1997, Frederick County undertook a study within this area to identify the most desirable land uses and plans for the future area as a whole. The goal of this study was to balance the economic development opportunities associated with the existing development activities while limiting development potential west of Route 37, promoting the continuation of agribusiness activities, and protecting the pristine landscape of the area. A study area for the Route 37 West Land Use Plan was identified within the county which encompassed 645 acres. This area is bounded by Route 522 to the north, Route 37 to the east, the Round Hill Community Land Use Plan boundary to the south, and a definitive ridge line to the west. The predominate land use is orchard and a portion of the study area includes a core area of the Battle of Second Winchester. Land Use Components Approximately a 120 -acre area located in the southeastern portion of the 645 -acre study area has been identified as a location for potential business concentrations. It is envisioned that this area should be planned for an office park -type development which complements the medical center and pharmaceutical school, while providing retail services that cater to these uses and the community within the proximity of the study area. The remaining 525 acres within this study area should remain in its present, pristine condition, continuing the present land use of orchards while preserving the historic integrity of the battlefield, as well as potentially significant properties identified in the Frederick County Rural Landmarks Survey. Transportation Components Future road networks are proposed for this study area which link the 120 -acre business and retail area with Route 37, Route 522, and Route 50. A system of major collector roads is necessary to promote the safe and efficient movement of traffic through this area. The Winchester Medical Center eurFently weFking has coordinated with the Virginia Department of Transportation to develop an interchange on Route 37 that will provide direct access to the medical center. This plan promotes the expansion of this interchange to provide limited access to the west, while linking the 120 -acre business and retail area to this interchange through the development of a major collector road. The development of a major collector road system which links the 120 -acre business and retail area with Route 522 and Route 50 is also necessary to promote and efficient north -south traffic pattern through this study area and the DeGrange property which borders this development pod to the south. Route 37 West Land Use Plan 65 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS Sewer and Water Components The Route 37 West Land Use Plan calls for the inclusion of the 120 -acre business and retail area within the Frederick County Sewer and Water Service Area. This inclusion is necessary to ensure compliance with county policies regarding proposed zoning changes from rural land use to commercial land use. The extension of the FFedeFmel( Geunt.; Sewer and Water Service Area has been done independently of the FFed .F".', GeHnt.; Urban Development Area. Therefore, residential development is not proposed or encouraged for this study area. Route 37 West Land Use Plan 66 `w w U T C C _ J Gi 10 C E z O O N w y U J � - L w E U c , L w E U APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS KERNSTOWN AREA PLAN BOARD OF SUPERVISORS APPROVED ON JANUARY 26, 2017 PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDED APPROVAL JANUARY 4, 2017 Kernstown Area Plan 68 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS KERNSTOWN AREA PLAN The Kernstown Area Plan study area is generally located along Route 11, south of the City of Winchester, north of the Town of Stephens City, and west of I-81. The Kernstown Area Plan builds on the Route 11 South Corridor Plan, and the balance of the Southern Frederick Area Plan which was adopted in 1998, by incorporating the western portion of this plan into the Kernstown Area Plan. A series of maps have been prepared which identify future land use, transportation, and natural, historical, and community facilities within the study area. Within this plan, the Shady Elm Road area continues its economic development emphasis, the Route 11 corridor seeks to capitalize on Interstate Commercial opportunities, the industrial land uses north of Route 37 and east of Route 11 are reinforced, and the Bartonsville and Kernstown historical and cultural areas have been identified. The Kernstown Area Plan in the vicinity of Route 37 and Interstate 81 feeds directly into the Senseny/Eastern Frederick Urban Area Plan with the Crosspointe Development. Interstate 81 improvements at the 310 Interchange, Phase 1 of which has now been completed +q hed led to eengn9enee on 2015, in this location further supports this area pan. Route 11, Valley Pike, links the Kernstown Area Plan with the City of Winchester to the north and the Town of Stephens City to the south. The Kernstown Area Plan promotes a new area of new land use focus; the Kernstown Neighborhood Village in the Creekside area, along the west side of Route 11. This area should promote an attractive street presence along the frontage of Route 11 and reaffirm Kernstown as a distinct community, blending the old with the new, and building on the successful developments that have occurred in this area of the County. Land Use The goal of this area plan is to integrate the commercial and industrial (C/I) opportunities and the areas of mixed use with future transportation plans and to recognize the historical and natural resources abundant in this area plan. Shady Elm Economic Development Area The Shady Elm Economic Development Area is designed to be a significant area of C/I opportunity that is fully supportive of the Frederick County Economic Development Authority's targeted goals and strategies. The intent of the industrial designation is to further enhance the County's C/I areas and to provide focus to the County's future regional employment centers. In specific areas a mix of flexible uses, with office uses in prominent locations is encouraged. Such areas are supported by substantial areas of C/I opportunity and provide for areas that are well designed with high quality architecture and site design. It is the intent of such areas to promote a strong positive community image. Kernstown Area Plan 69 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS Kernstown Interstate Commercial at Exit 0 310 Located at a highly visible location on a prominent interstate interchange, this area of land use both north and south of Route 37 along Route 11, is designed specifically to accommodate and promote highway commercial land uses and commercial uses that continue to promote this area as a regional commercial center. Particular effort must be made to ensure that access management for the supporting transportation network is a key priority as the function of the interstate and primary road network is of paramount importance. Access to the areas of interstate commercial land uses shall be carefully designed. Access Management is a priority along the Route 11 corridor. The building and site layout and design of the projects shall be of a high quality. In addition, an enhanced buffer and landscaping area shall be provided adjacent to the Interstate 81 right-of-way, its ramps, and along the main arterial road, Route 11, the Valley Pike. A significant corridor appearance buffer is proposed along Route 11 similar to that established for Route 50 West corridor in the Round Hill Land Use Plan which consisted of a 50 -foot buffer area, landscaping, and bike path. The recently developed Kernstown Commons provides an excellent example of an enhanced buffer and landscaping area along Route 11 that also includes a multi-purpose trail that serves the area. Kernstown Industrial Area The existing industrial land uses north of Route 37 and both east and west of Route 11 are reinforced with this area plan. Industries including Trex and H. P. Hood, are well established and should continue to be supported in this area. Additional C/I opportunity that is fully supportive of the Frederick County Economic Development Authority's targeted goals and strategies should be promoted. The intent of the industrial designation is to further enhance the County's C/I areas and to provide focus to the County's regional employment centers. Kernstown Creekside Neighborhood Village Kernstown Creekside Neighborhood Village serves as a focal point to the Kernstown Area and as a gateway feature for this important County location. In addition, the Kernstown Creekside Area serves as a gateway into the City of Winchester, and on a broader scale, a gateway feature for this portion of Frederick County as citizens and visitors approach this portion the County from the south. This neighborhood village should promote a strong positive community image. Residential land uses would be permitted only as an accessory component of the neighborhood village commercial land uses. This area should have a strong street presence with particular attention being paid to the form of the buildings adjacent to Route 11. It is the intent of this plan to reaffirm Kernstown as a distinct community, blending the old with the new, and building on the successful developments that have occurred in this area of the County. Kernstown Area Plan 70 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS Defined Rural Areas The Kernstown Area Plan has seHght to further define the boundary between the Rural and Urban Areas of the community. As noted, the above areas of proposed land use combine to frame the western boundary of the County's urban areas. In addition, the rural areas to the west of Shady Elm Road south of the industrial areas further define the County's urban area in this location. The plan provides enhanced recognition of the rural residential land uses, , and the agricultural areas adjacent to Middle Road. This recognition and the location and boundaries of the proposed land uses further promote a clean separation between the County's rural and urban areas. The continuation of agricultural uses west of Route 37 and Shady Elm Road will encourage the continuation of agribusiness activity and protect the integrity of the properties voluntarily placed in the South Frederick Agricultural and Forestal District. Kernstown Battlefield and Bartonsville Sensitive Natural Areas (SNA's) A historic district designation or use of conservation easements is recommended for the portion of the Grim Farm, site of the Kernstown Battlefield owned by the Kernstown Battlefield Association (KBA) that is located in the County. This designation is intended to recognize the preservation of the core area of the Kernstown Battlefield. County regulations stipulate that the formation of a historic district must be accomplished through the consent of the land owner. The County continues to support the Kernstown Battlefield Association's efforts in preserving and promoting this tremendous County resource. A similar designation should be pursued, in conjunction with property owners, in the Bartonsville area. In addition to its historical significance, much of the Bartonsville area is also within the 100 year floodplain and would therefore be otherwise limited in terms of development potential. In Bartonsville, the rehabilitation, adaptive reuse, or restoration of historic structures should be encouraged. Future development applications that have historic resources on the property should incorporate the resources on the site into development. Any future development should be sensitive to those resources present on the site. There are several historic sites and markers in the Kernstown Area Plan. Those sites and markers should be buffered from adjacent development activities and preserved in their original condition whenever possible during any development or land use planning. The Springdale Flour Mill is located in the center of Bartonsville and would be ideal for use as a key element for the Bartonsville Rural Historic Area. It would be appropriate for the use on the property to develop as something which would encourage the protection of the structure and provide a use which encourages adaptive reuse users to utilize the property. Bartonsville South Perhaps the most outstanding feature of the land from Bartonsville south to the Stephens City limits is the relatively pristine state of the southern portion of the corridor. At time of writing, it remains relatively undeveloped. The majority of this segment of the study area is currently either used for agriculture or is vacant. Only two, small-scale commercial Kernstown Area Plan 71 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS enterprises are situated in this portion of the corridor. The bigger of the two is a commercial recreational land use known as Appleland. General commercial land uses are envisioned in this area in the future. As noted, the Route 11 South corridor, in the area in and around Bartonsville, is shown as the site of a future preservation effort. One of the significant elements of this plan is the buffering of Route 11 South. This southern section of the corridor from Stephens City, north to Bartonsville is intended to be set apart from the existing commercial development along the northern third of the corridor. The intent is that, through a combination of setbacks, vegetative screening, planting of shade trees along the edge of the right-of-way, and the provision of bike way and pedestrian access, the corridor would have a parkway -like appearance. A planted median strip is also envisioned when this section of Route 11 South becomes four -lane. Uses locating within this section of the corridor would be expected to have no direct access to Route 11 South, but rather would access a proposed east -west connector road which in turn would intersect Route 11 South. Valley Pike Trail For the Kernstown Area Plan, it is recommended that a new multi-purpose path be constructed along the length of Valley Pike through the study area connecting areas of land use, in particular those resources identified as sensitive natural areas, and providing connections with the City of Winchester and the Town of Stephens City. This pathway should be consistent with that of the path that exists in several locations along the road today. Examples of this such a recreational resource would provide an excellent example for other opportunities in the County. In general, the goals for land use in the Kernstown Area Plan are to; • Promote orderly development within areas impacted by new infrastructure. • Provide a balance of industrial, commercial, residential, and agricultural areas. • Promote mixed-use development in -lieu of large areas of residential. • Concentrate industrial and commercial uses near and around interstate, arterial, and major collector interchanges and intersections. • Encourage the preservation of prime agricultural areas and the continuation of Agricultural and Forestal Districts. As noted in the Transportation Chapter of the Plan, as road projects and development or redevelopment take place, the development and associated transportation facilities should be accessible to all users. This means inclusion of bicycle and pedestrian facilities and accommodations as well as the following points: Kernstown Area Plan 72 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS • Ensure connectivity with existing or proposed bicycle or pedestrian transportation accommodations wherever possible. In particular, those planned or existing in the Town of Stephens City or in the City of Winchester. • Pedestrian facilities should be constructed that connect neighborhoods to commercial areas, employment areas and public facilities to promote access and walkability. • Trails should be planned and constructed that connect the Kernstown area, the proposed Valley Pike Trail, and Bartonsville (see the Valley Pike Trail example described in the land use section). • Linear parks should be constructed along creeks where permissible due to topography. Residential Development Future residential land uses within the Kernstown Area Plan are only planned within the Urban Development Area in the location identified as the Kernstown Creekside Neighborhood Village. New residential uses should complement the existing residential uses, should be generally of a higher residential density and should include a neighborhood commercial component as described in the Kernstown Creekside Neighborhood Village Land Use. It will be very important to mix residential development in this area with the right balance of commercial uses. The Kernstown Creekside Neighborhood Village should include in this aFea, slightly higher residential densities that may fall within the 6-12 units per acre range aFe envisiened, (this is generally attached houses and may also include multifamily and a mix of other housing types). These densities are necessary to accommodate the anticipated growth of the County within the urban areas and are consistent with established patterns within the study area and the densities needed to support the future residential land uses envisioned in the Plan. The residential land uses west of Shady Elm Road within the study area are envisioned to remain rural area residential in character. Shady Elm Road south considered as the boundary between the urban areas and rural areas within the western part of this study area. This provides a transition area to the Opequon Creek and to the well-established rural character of the Middle Road and Springdale Road area. Business Development The Plan identifies a prime area for industrial land uses, the Shady Elm Economic Development Area, to capitalize on future C/I employment opportunities. Existing areas of industrial development are recognized with additional development promoted. Regional commercial development opportunities are reinforced in the Kernstown Interstate commercial area. In addition, an area is identified for neighborhood village commercial use, Kernstown Area Plan 73 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS including retail, to accommodate existing residential communities and to build upon the successful Creekside commercial project. The improvements to the Exit 310 Interchange on interstate 81 at Route 37 furthers the significant commercial opportunities that the PlaH seeks to take advantage of by identifying these land uses in the Kernstown Interstate Commercial 4 310 area. of land Hse. Future improvements identified for this area are envisioned to continue to enhance this areas major role for commercial and industrial development. Transuortation The Plan's Eastern Road Plan identifies several significant transportation improvements within the study area boundaries. These plans call for improvements to existing road alignments and interchanges, the relocation of existing roadways, and the construction of new road systems and interchanges. Transportation improvements to the interstate, arterial, and collector road systems will contribute to improved levels of service throughout the study area and will shape the land use patterns in the short and long term. In support of the new areas of land use, a transportation network has been proposed which relates to the location and context of the areas of land use, promotes multi -modal transportation choices and walkability, furthers the efforts of the Win -Fred MPO, and reaffirms the planning done as part of the Route 11 South Plan and the original Southern Frederick Plan. In this study there is a direct nexus between transportation and land use. The improvements to Interstate 81 at Exit 310, will provide an improved orientation for the County's primary road system and provides new opportunities to create a transportation network which supports the future growth of the community in the right locations. This area is also heavily influenced by the ongoing and future improvements to Route 11 South, Shady Elm Road, and the future extension of Renaissance Drive to complete a key east - west connection south of Route 37. South of Bartonsville, in the area north of the Town of Stephens City, the road network provides for important connections into the Town and to the west to connect with the planned alignment of the Tasker Road flyover of Interstate 81. Access Management is a significant consideration of this study and general transportation planning in Frederick County. This concept is supportive of providing for key connections to the south. The use of frontage roads, minor collector roads, and inter -parcel connections to bring traffic to shared access points and reducing the overall number of access points is promoted in order to improve safety and corridor traffic flow through the reduction of conflict points. The context of the collector road network is proposed to be different with the focus being placed on a thoroughfare design that is accessible to all users and a more walkable environment. Particular attention should be paid to street network within the Kernstown Creekside Neighborhood Village Area to ensure that is highly walkable. The change in context in this specific location is to ensure compatibility with adjacent land uses and community goals. The surrounding land use, site design, and building design are features that will help create context and promote the improvement of this area as a focal point and Kernstown Area Plan 74 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS as a place with more distinct character. Attention should be provided to the context of the street in the Neighborhood Village Commercial Areas to ensure that these prominent locations are safe and accessible to all modes of transportation. Bicycle and pedestrian accommodations should be fully integrated to achieve a transportation network that is open to all users. Appropriately designed intersection accommodations should include pedestrian refuge islands and pedestrian actualized signals. In general, the Fead Route 11 south of Apple Valley Road will provide for a more functional street open to all users. North of Apple Valley Road, Route 11 will have a more urban scale with a character that builds upon the architecture established in the existing Creekside area. Special attention should be paid to ensure the transportation considerations of the Town of Stephens City to the south and the City of Winchester to the north are fully coordinated. In addition, transportation improvements in the Kernstown Battlefield area and the Bartonsville area should include taking a proactive approach in creating safe interconnected routes to the battlefield park from the adjacent areas and creating additional access points. Traffic calming across the entire frontage of Kernstown Creekside Neighborhood Village is warranted with special attention placed on providing a safe and efficient access to this mixed-use area of the community. Consistent application of Comprehensive Plan goals to achieve an acceptable level of service on area roads and overall transportation network, level of service C or better, should be promoted. Further, efforts should be made to ensure that additional degradation of the transportation beyond an acceptable level of service shall be avoided. Consideration of future development applications within the study area should only occur when an acceptable level of service has been achieved and key elements and connections identified in this plan have been provided. Further in-depth study should occur in the future regarding the preferred alignment of the road connections in the area immediately south and adjacent to the Bartonsville area. 0 s sensitive te the n9any e8nStFaints that exist On that geneFal aFea. In particular, the Stephens City bypass, particularly in the vicinity of the CSX rail crossing should receive further study to refine the alignment to a configuration that is the most feasible and sensitive to environmental and historical considerations in the area. Community Facilities The need for public spaces within the study area needs to be acknowledged. Opportunities for small public spaces within the Kernstown Creekside Neighborhood Village should be pursued. The public facility element of the Kernstown Area plan should directly correlate to the Public Facilities chapter of the 2935 Comprehensive Plan. The public facilities element should also expand upon the existing 2935 Comprehensive Plan and ensure that opportunities for needed public facilities, which are not currently identified, are not missed. The development Kernstown Area Plan 75 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS community should work with FCPS, Fire & Rescue, and Parks and Recreation to determine future public facility needs. With regards to Public Utilities, Akre Frederick and 11 1 County should continue to ensure the availability of adequate water resources in conjunction with the future land uses identified in Area Plans and future development, determine the capacities of water and sewer treatment facilities and projected impacts of future land uses, and provide opportunities for expansion of water and sewage treatment facilities. Currently the City of Winchester provides service for certain areas located within this land use plan; going forward, service for new development should solely be provided by Frederick water. Kernstown Area Plan 76 �J Proposed Interchanges Eastern Road Plan • ♦�• New Major Arterial Improved Major Arterial - • \�• New Minor Arterial io ^ G C - ♦0 Improved Minor Arterial QJC • �sy New Major Collector Improved Major Collector •�+i; New Minor Collector Improved Minor Collector Ramp Roundabout e Trails �� • Urban Development Area Land Use Legend 10, Town of Stephens City Sewer and Water Service Area '`O, Future Rt 37 Bypass OBusiness O Residential Natural Resources & Recreation C) B2 / B3 O Residential, 4 u/a Park O Industrial O High -Density Residential Q Environmentally Sensitive Areas kz..� Employment < Urban center Institutional Neighborhood Village O Sensitive Natural Areas V \ 4ti CpG W _S E 4 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map Draft . �....i Urban Development Area R ii Town of Stephens City Sewer and Water Service Area Future Rt 37 B Draft Eastern Road Plan ^iImproved Major Collector O Proposed Interchanges •%.New Major Arterial '%.New Minor Collector 1iImproved Major Arterial O%rImproved Minor Collector •%*New Minor Arterial ^i Ramp ►Improved Minor Arterial '— Roundabout N 4R CqG o' W- 4'%# New •%#New Major Collector 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map Draft 0 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.6 Miles I I I u0n —u' City of Winchester -1 c 7 f t, V ` j O �P 'J 11 1� OA E'e OPS 0 Ir _ CJS � ^ �• l „ P '► ®®$ „ Town of Stephens City Area Land Use Plan Transportation �•� *1 Urban Development Area Sewer and Water Service Area Future Rt 37 Bypass • Draft Eastern Road Plan ^o Improved Major Collector O proposed Interchanges 0%. New Major Arterial 0%. New Minor Collector N 1.Improved Major Arterial 0"#.iImproved Minor Collector wE z • %. New Minor Arterial 1. Ramp s ^oImproved Minor Arterial Roundabout *♦*New Major Collector '\..Trails 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map Draft 0 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.6 Miles I I I �� Urban Development Area Town of ;, Stephens City A cram Sewer and Water Service Area " . Future Rt 37 Eastern Road Plan ^/Improved Major Collector Long Range Land Use - Historic Rural Landmarks 0 %♦ New Major Arterial •%# New Minor Collector (�D sensitive Natural Areas /Improved Major Arterial #*#4.0Improved Minor Collector O Proposed Interchanges • % ♦ New Minor Arterial ^0 Ramp /Improved Minor Arterial Roundabout sem♦ New Major Collector Trails 0 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.6 Miles I I I N 4R CqG o' S 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map Draft APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS STEPHENS CITY/FREDERICK COUNTY JOINT FUTURE LAND USE PLAN ANNEXATION AREAS -Final Draft Approved by Stephens City Town Council, February 3, 2009 -Final Map Approved by Stephens City Town Council, March 3, 2009 - Approved by Frederick County Board of Supervisors, April 8, 2009 Stephens City/Frederick County Joint l"HtHFe Land Use Plan 81 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS STEPHENS CITY/FREDERICK COUNTY JOINT FUTURE LAND USE PLAN FOR PRepeSEB ANNEXATION AREAS of the 1. mnt Land Use Gengn9otti aetivity within the aFea and The Stephens City/Frederick County Joint Future Land Use Plan depicts a conceptual plan for future land uses within the annexation area around the Town of Stephens City. The pFepesed annexation area is made up of two phases. Phase I consists of a northern and southern portion comprising a total of approximately 360 acres. The northern area of Phase I is adjacent to the town's northern boundary and extends west from I-81, across the railroad. The southern portion of this phase is situated at the town's southwestern boundary, surrounding the Lime Kiln. Phase II of the pFepes-ed annexation area is also located south of the town. It comprises an area of roughly 350 acres lying between I-81 and the railroad and extending south to Family Drive. Overall, the general concept of the land use plan is to allow for growth around the existing town which is compatible with the existing scale and style of Stephens City. Industrial areas are sited to make use of the rail lines while being buffered from view of Route 11 and existing or proposed residential areas. A major collector road is shown running west of town that would function as a bypass, drawing through traffic from Route 11 and thereby out of the center of town. The "bypass" is intended to assist in reducing congestion at the Route 11 Fairfax Pike intersection. The collector road ties in with a relocated Route 277/Interstate 81 interchange to the south of the present location and to a new overpass of I-81 at an extended Tasker Road to the north. This major collector road would be fed by other new, minor collector roads as well as the existing street system. An extension of this major collector road would provide connectivity with the proposed Shady Elm Collector Road. Key gateway intersections are proposed to include roundabout intersections that will provide effectively functioning intersections with a design quality that enhances the Town. General categories of future land uses are depicted within the pFepesed annexation areas by colored areas. These areas of future land use are mixed to coordinate and integrate with each other, take advantage of, and implement the transportation improvements, and relate with the existing character and context of the Town. These general land use categories are described as follows: LIGHT INDUSTRIAL/MANUFACTURING/OFFICE: Stephens City/Frederick County Joint l"HtHFe Land Use Plan 82 Z31212 11 IN rit .� ��s_a ZIII�aa�o � r��.ia�..:�.aia:.a :a�a:�ia_:�a_�iaa :a: �wi ��iae�ia�a_�a:�.�ia�•w��.�. of the 1. mnt Land Use Gengn9otti aetivity within the aFea and The Stephens City/Frederick County Joint Future Land Use Plan depicts a conceptual plan for future land uses within the annexation area around the Town of Stephens City. The pFepesed annexation area is made up of two phases. Phase I consists of a northern and southern portion comprising a total of approximately 360 acres. The northern area of Phase I is adjacent to the town's northern boundary and extends west from I-81, across the railroad. The southern portion of this phase is situated at the town's southwestern boundary, surrounding the Lime Kiln. Phase II of the pFepes-ed annexation area is also located south of the town. It comprises an area of roughly 350 acres lying between I-81 and the railroad and extending south to Family Drive. Overall, the general concept of the land use plan is to allow for growth around the existing town which is compatible with the existing scale and style of Stephens City. Industrial areas are sited to make use of the rail lines while being buffered from view of Route 11 and existing or proposed residential areas. A major collector road is shown running west of town that would function as a bypass, drawing through traffic from Route 11 and thereby out of the center of town. The "bypass" is intended to assist in reducing congestion at the Route 11 Fairfax Pike intersection. The collector road ties in with a relocated Route 277/Interstate 81 interchange to the south of the present location and to a new overpass of I-81 at an extended Tasker Road to the north. This major collector road would be fed by other new, minor collector roads as well as the existing street system. An extension of this major collector road would provide connectivity with the proposed Shady Elm Collector Road. Key gateway intersections are proposed to include roundabout intersections that will provide effectively functioning intersections with a design quality that enhances the Town. General categories of future land uses are depicted within the pFepesed annexation areas by colored areas. These areas of future land use are mixed to coordinate and integrate with each other, take advantage of, and implement the transportation improvements, and relate with the existing character and context of the Town. These general land use categories are described as follows: LIGHT INDUSTRIAL/MANUFACTURING/OFFICE: Stephens City/Frederick County Joint l"HtHFe Land Use Plan 82 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS This category is shown in blue and accounts for roughly 153 acres of the pFepesed annexation area. Anticipated land uses within these areas would be consistent with the county's current M-1 zoning, including office, light manufacturing, wholesale establishments, and warehousing. This area could also be attractive to the County's targeted economic development businesses which are proposed to be accommodated by the OM zoning classification. One area of this land use, located in the prominently visible site in the area south of the Town, adjacent to the intersection of the Western Bypass and along the Bypass, should seek to accommodate the more commercial and office components of this land use designation. Buildings should be located closer to the road than any accessory uses, including parking areas, in an effort to present a strong economic presence and attractive form of development at this community gateway. CONSERVATION/ OPEN SPACE: These areas are shown in green and account for roughly 300 acres. The areas are located 1) along the Route 11 corridor north of, and south of, the town (depicting an area to be buffered), 2) an area of approximately 15 acres adjacent and connected to the Stephens City Western Bypass and central to this area of development to be utilized by the Town as a park or other public use, 3) an area west of the railroad around the northern quarry, and 4) a low lying area south of town and west of Route 11. The intent of these areas would be to preserve these areas from development for environmental, recreational, and/or aesthetic reasons. The rural corridor preservation buffer along the east and west sides of Route 11 could be up to a maximum 200 -feet in width. An additional road efficiency buffer should be provided between any residential development and the proposed Stephens City Bypass. INSTITUTIONAL USE: This area is depicted with a pink checked hatch and is shown to the north on the eastern side of the Route 11 corridor. The area consists of approximately 25 acres of existing and future institutional land uses. . The intent of this land designation is to serve the public at large through an institutional use that might consist of school (private or public), church or non-profit organization, recreational use, or a government entity. Appropriate amenities may include dormitories, recreational or athletic fields, administration and maintenance facilities, and other similar uses that are customarily associated with this type of institutional land use. MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL: These areas are depicted in yellow and are shown north of town on both sides of the Route 11 corridor. The area east of Route 11, total roughly 27 acres, is designed to complement the existing residential land uses and complete the area between Route 11 and Interstate 81. The area west of Route 11, between Route 11 and the Western Bypass and totaling roughly 40 acres, is designed to reinforce the residential character of the northern portion of the Town and integrate this residential land use into the proposed areas of Commercial and Mixed Use. The area of medium density residential south of Fairfax Pike is consistent with the residential land use approved by the Town for this property. It is the intent of this land use designation to provide for residential development at a density of approximately four units per acre. This residential development shall implement the standards of New Stephens City/Frederick County Joint l"HtHFe Land Use Plan 83 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS Urbanism and be integrated into the surrounding land uses and orientated towards the internal street network. HIGHWAY COMMERCIAL/COMMERCIAL/OFFICE: This area totaling approximately 135 acres is shown in orange and is located in several of the annexation areas at key intersections, but most prominently, in the area immediately west of the future relocation of Interstate 81 Interchange, west of Route 11. This area of land use is intended to provide typical highway commercial uses such as retail, restaurants, and office uses. It is located to take advantage of both the significant Interstate traffic that could be anticipated from the relocated interchange, and the local traffic that would be utilizing the local collector road network. MIXED-USE: This land use is identified in three locations. The first area is located north of the proposed east west collector road adjacent to the northern boundary of the Town, west of Route 11, and contains roughly 15 acres. The second area is located south of Town, west of Route 11, and adjacent to the collector street connecting the Western Bypass with Route 11. This area is also roughly 15 acres. The third area is at the western gateway to the Town, south of Fairfax Street, and encompasses the area of existing residential lots and an area of approved commercial development. This area is approximately 25 acres in size. These areas would be a mix of commercial, business, and office uses with the possibility of up to twenty- five (25) percent of the land area being available for single family attached residential land uses at a density of four units per acre. In addition, second story and above residences located above commercial land uses shall be permitted. These second story and above residential uses shall be considered bonus residential uses that do not count towards the residential density of the mixed-use area. This area of mixed-use development shall implement the standards of New Urbanism and be integrated into the surrounding land uses and orientated towards the street network. MIXED-USE AGE -RESTRICTED: This land use designation is identified in one location in the area north of Town and west of Route 11This area is -contains approximately 20 acres. This area would be a mix of age -restricted residential land uses at a relatively high residential density, up to approximately 8 units per acre, and shall contain a variety of residential housing types. In addition, this area shall contain a mix of commercial, business, or office uses that would be located on a minimum of fifteen (15) percent of the site. The intent of this land use designation would be to serve active older adults in an environment that takes advantage of the unique characteristics of the Town adds value to the broader community. This area of mixed-use age restricted development shall implement the standards of New Urbanism and be integrated into the Town, the surrounding land uses, and orientated towards the street network which shall be a continuation of the Town's grid pattern. Stephens City/Frederick County Joint l"HtHFe Land Use Plan 84 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS INFRASTRUCTURE AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES It is essential to ensure that the infrastructure, in particular transportation infrastructure, and the necessary community facilities are provided in a timely and coordinated manner in order to enable the successful implementation of the land use plan. The County and the Town agree that any development in implementation of the Joint Land Use Plan shall fully mitigate the impacts associated with the request and shall further the goals of the Joint Land Use Plan, the County's Comprehensive Pe+iey Plan, specifically with regards to transportation policy, and the Town's Comprehensive Pelmey Plan. Key community infrastructure components identified in the Joint Land Use Plan, the County's Comprehensive Pe++ey Plan, and the Town's Comprehensive Peliey Plan shall be fully recognized and development projects shall seek to implement the community facility, transportation, and infrastructure needs of the County and the Town. The land use designations of the Joint Land Use Plan that will form the basis for future zoning amendments were designed in coordination with the infrastructure, in particular transportation infrastructure, and the necessary community facilities. Therefore, future development applications shall address the impacts of the project and shall further the implementation of the infrastructure and community facility transportation improvements identified in the respective Comprehensive Pelmey Plans. This may include the design and construction of key segments of proposed roads and intersection/interchanges. Consideration of future development applications within the study area should only occur when an acceptable level of service has been achieved and key elements and connections identified in this plan have been provided. Stephens City/Frederick County Joint l"HtHFe Land Use Plan 85 Land Use Legend N 4ti CpG O Residential Mixed-Use Phase 1 Annexation Area W+E q' ® Mixed Use Age Restricted Industrial "ao, Phase 2 Annexation Area OInstitutional Open Space s OHighway Commercial Natural Resource & Recreation 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map 0 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.6 Miles Draft APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS MIDDLETOWN/LORD FAIRFAX SEWER AND WATER SERVICE AREA -INCLUDING 2014 SEWER AND WATER SERVICE AREA (SWSA) EXPANSION BOARD OF SUPERVISORS APPROVED ON SEPTEMBER 26, 2012 AMENDED AUGUST 13, 2014 Middletown/Lord Fairfax Sewer and Water Service Area 87 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS MIDDLETOWN/LORD FAIRFAX SEWER AND WATER SERVICE AREA The Lord Fairfax Community College (LFCC) Middletown Campus, located at 173 Skirmisher Lane, is a comprehensive, multi -campus public institution of higher education. Through its three locations — the Fauquier and Middletown Campuses and the Luray -Page County Center — the College serves eight localities in the Shenandoah Valley and Piedmont regions. The localities are the counties of Clarke, Fauquier, Frederick, Page, Rappahannock, Shenandoah and Warren and the City of Winchester. The Middletown campus has grown since it was founded in 1970 into the campus illustrated in the following site plan.FF�e Frederick County's Middletown Elementary School is located immediately north of the LFCC. Map Lq$YnE RIC -Aft7*ftx r:.gNS WA LW.., Mie. -Paul MA bb," A.— Sc4nceqWw04R-$4 Wav,Var >'+o1Asu'are tAn1'dllP Cbrrnn Can Oev Co- - Carni Co N), 3 � II[II LIIIII111&IIaIIrIIIlllI11LWill Middletown/Lord Fairfax Sewer and Water Service Area 88 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS The Sewer and Water Service Area (SWSA) is an important policy tool used by Frederick County to determine where public water and sewer service may be provided. The Board of Supervisors approves the location of the SWSA boundaries through the adoption of the Comprehensive Plan; the 2939 Ge ffi Feh,.... ive Plan and amendments thereto. As a result, properties located within the SWSA may enjoy access to public water and sewer infrastructure is available. The Middletown/Lord Fairfax SWSA has been established to enable the provision of public water and sewer in the area north of the Town of Middletown to current and future institutional land uses, including Lord Fairfax Community College (LFCC) and the Middletown Elementary School. The supporting map identifies the location of the Middletown/ Lord Fairfax SWSA boundary. Future study of the area surrounding the Town of Middletown may identify additional properties that could be added to the Middletown SWSA, if deemed appropriate by the Board of Supervisors. Tkre Frederick Water has the primary responsibility to manage the provision of water and sewer in Frederick County, and therefore, within the SWSA. In some cases, other public entities may serve properties within Frederick County, if approved by the Board of Supervisors. Lord Fairfax Community College (LFCC) currently obtains water from the City of Winchester, and public sewer service from the Town of Middletown reeeoves their .-F, The Board of Supervisors, in approving this update to the area plan, expressly stated that Frederick Water will be the party responsible for providing water and sewer in this area. It is recognized that properties owned by the State of Virginia are preempted from local control by Frederick County. Frederick County and Lord Fairfax Community College (LFCC) will continue to work collaboratively on issues related to the growth and development in this area of Frederick County. Land Use Cr... -I. Fiel. P'e my Hses the 2030 Ge si,e Plan te gHi.-e the fHfig Fe land HSes. The The area encompassed by the Middletown/ Lord Fairfax SWSA is envisioned to promote the continued growth of institutional land uses that enhance the existing educational institutions, Lord Fairfax Community College (LFCC), and the Middletown Elementary School. To that end, the plan calls for the establishment of approximately 140 acres of institutional land use that will serve the citizens of Frederick County and the broader region. Institutional land uses are defined as a nonprofit or quasi -public use or institution, such as a church, library, public or private school, hospital or municipally owned or operated building, structure or land used for public purposes. Institutions of higher education are defined as Middletown/Lord Fairfax Sewer and Water Service Area 89 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS an educational institution whose primary purpose is to provide a collegiate or graduate education. Transportation The Middletown/ Lord Fairfax SWSA is immediately north of the Town of Middletown and is bounded by Valley Pike (Route 11), to the west, and Interstate 81 to the east. Access to the area is via Valley Pike Interstate 81 and Exit 302. are strong assets to the areas' transportation network, and to the success of the institutional uses envisioned for this area. It will be important to ensure the function of this transportation network. In rapidly growing areas, as noted in the Foresight Middletown plan, controlling and coordinating the number, design and location of new access points to major roadways is critical to maintaining the safety and capacity of the road system as traffic volumes increase. Accordingly, access to Valley Pike, Reute-ter should be managed and limited. In the future, internal connections within the institutional land uses should be considered. In addition, the primary route to this area from Interstate 81 should be enhanced to safely and effectively manage the traffic and to reflect the Foresight Middletown plan as a means to create an attractive entrance to the Town and this developing area. Consistent application of Comprehensive Plan goals to achieve an acceptable level of service on area roads and overall transportation network, level of service C or better, should be promoted. As roadways are upgraded or built, enhancements should be made to improve bicycle and pedestrian access to all properties in the area. Further, efforts should be made to ensure that additional degradation of the transportation beyond an acceptable level of service shall be avoided. Consideration of future development applications within the study area should only occur when an acceptable level of service has been achieved and key elements and connections identified in this plan have been provided. Middletown/Lord Fairfax Sewer and Water Service Area 90 E Town of Middletown by y y 4*Sewerand Water Service Area Land Use Legend Highway Commercial 4n� Mixed Use Industrial \ Office ® Institutional 0 0.05 0.1 0.2 0.3 Miles I I I E N W E D S 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map Draft APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS RELIANCE ROAD AREA LAND USE PLAN - INCLUDING 2014 SEWER AND WATER SERVICE AREA (SWSA) DESIGNATION BOARD OF SUPERVISORS Approved on December 14, 2011 Amended August 13, 2014 Reliance Road Area Land Use Plan 92 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS RELIANCE ROAD AREA LAND USE PLAN In spring 2010, the Town of Middletown expressed interest in expanding its boundaries to incorporate approximately 250 acres of land on the east side of I-81, Exit 302, following Reliance Road. Shortly thereafter, the Reliance Road Steering Committee (RRSC) was convened. The RRSC was composed of representatives from the Town Council and the Board of Supervisors. The RRSC met various times over the ensuing months. The Town representatives also held a community meeting and met with individual property owners within the study area to gain an understanding of the interest of the property owners in terms of the Town's desired boundary line adjustment with the County, as well as future land use opportunities; these meetings were summarized and presented to the RRSC by Town representatives. It was noted that while approximately 37 acres of B2 General Business Zoning exists within the study area, only one site has been developed and benefits from the Town's water and sewer system: the 2.7 -acre site occupied by an existing Exxon service station. The RRSC also evaluated the existing transportation network in addition to water and sewer availability. The RRSC considered the Foresight Middletown plan (adopted into the Town's Comprehensive Plan in 2005), which promoted the implementation of a technology park east of the interstate. The results of these findings led to the crafting of the Reliance Road Area Land Use Plan as a means to illustrate the potential land uses, and the supporting transportation and public water and sewer for the area, to foster further discussions. The land use plan is envisioned to guide land use decisions for an area of approximately 311 acres over the next 20 to 30 years. Recognizing the Town's current water availability, development within the study area will initially be limited until an additional water supply is more readily available. The Board of Supervisors, in approving this update to the area plan, expressly stated that �e Frederick will be the party responsible for providing water and sewer in this area. LAND USE The proximity of the study area to I-81, Exit 302, enhances the opportunities for land uses that benefit from the interstate. As such, commercial and technology uses would be most beneficial at this location. The plan calls for the establishment of approximately 44 acres of commercial uses that serve the travelling public, such as hotels, gasoline service stations, and restaurants. The commercial opportunities would be located immediately east of the interstate interchange, on the north and south sides of Reliance Road. This is also the area where public water and sewer presently serves the existing Exxon service station. These land uses could be implemented through the B2 (Business General) Zoning District. Technology uses are envisioned both north and south of Reliance Road, covering approximately 259 acres. Based on the targeted businesses identified by the Frederick County Economic Development Authority (EDA) WinehesteF Frederiek Eeun the technology uses would include economic sectors such as: Reliance Road Area Land Use Plan 93 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS Advanced Security, Assembly, Business Services, and Life Sciences. These land uses would be implemented through the OM (Office Manufacturing) Zoning District. In recognition of the continuation of the agricultural and large lot residential land uses adjacent to the study area, efforts should be implemented through the rezoning and development process that mitigate and lessen the adverse impacts that the commercial and technological uses may introduce. Mitigation techniques such as 100 -foot distance buffers and landscape screening would be expected. TRANSPORTATION While the existence of I-81, Exit 302, is a strong asset to the areas' transportation network, the actual configuration of the interchange and its close proximity of Buckton Road is not conducive to accommodating future traffic demands. In order for the interchange to operate efficiently and effectively in the future, it is essential to migrate the existing intersection of Reliance and Buckton Roads further east, creating a greater separation distance from the I-81 northbound on/off ramps. Increasing this separation distance will avoid significant degradation of the interchange similar to what has occurred at Exit 307 in Stephens City. In rapidly growing areas, as noted in the Foresight Middletown Plan, controlling and coordinating the number, design and location of new access points to major roadways is critical to maintaining the safety and capacity of the road system as traffic volumes increase. Accordingly, access to Reliance Road should be managed and limited. The plan calls for limiting Reliance Road access to three points: a managed access entrance point in the vicinity of Confidence Lane, and two appropriately spaced, preferably roundabout, intersections. As noted in the Transportation Chapter of the Plan, as road projects and development or redevelopment take place, the development and associated transportation facilities should be accessible to all users. The initial access point onto Reliance Road would be established with the relocation of Buckton Road. A second access point onto Reliance Road would be established with the relocation of Huttle Road, to create a single intersection on Reliance Road for relocated Huttle Road and a new road servicing the southern land area. These three Reliance Road access points would facilitate traffic movement to/from Reliance Road to the various future land uses to the north and south. It may also be appropriate to utilize a roundabout at the relocated Buckton Road intersection with Reliance Road as a means to define where the developed portion of Reliance Road ends and the rural land uses of the County begin. A similar technique was suggested by the Foresight Middletown plan as a means to create an entrance to the developed area. Finally, the Foresight Middletown plan calls for Reliance Road within the Town limits to be a boulevard with a landscaped median; the Reliance Road Area Land Use Plan carries this design concept forward east of the interstate. Reliance Road Area Land Use Plan 94 APPENDIX I - AREA PLANS Consistent application of Comprehensive Plan goals to achieve an acceptable level of service on area roads and overall transportation network, level of service C or better, should be promoted. Further, efforts should be made to ensure that additional degradation of the transportation beyond an acceptable level of service shall be avoided. Consideration of future development applications within the study area should only occur when an acceptable level of service has been achieved and key elements and connections identified in this plan have been provided. WATER AND SEWER The Town recently completed an upgrade to its wastewater treatment facility which enables it to treat upwards of 400,000 gpd. Reflective of the slowing economy and the Town's limited water availability, the wastewater facility is currently operating at less than 30 percent capacity; the facility is available to service future wastewater demands. Existing limitations in water availability and the conveyance lines under the interstate may hinder development in the near future. As the Town secures additional water availability, upgrades to the conveyance system could easily be undertaken. Reflective of current water availability, the Town is positioned to dedicate up to 18,000 gpd of water to development on the east side of I-81. This available water resource could facilitate an initial expansion of the commercial land uses to include a hotel, expanded gasoline service station/convenience center, and a restaurant. Any additional commercial uses would certainly warrant additional water resources. Development of the technology park land uses will be limited until additional water resources are identified and available. Technology uses that require limited water resources would certainly be more desirable initially, until the expanded water supply has been secured and accessible. The Board of Supervisors, in approving the 2014 update, expressly stated that Frederick Water will be the party responsible for providing water and sewer in this area. Reliance Road Area Land Use Plan 95 2) This change would require a traffic study under Chapter 527. This study would give the needed information to refine roadway system improvement expectations. V Road Abandonment I04b.0 proposed Transportation 40Sewerand Water Service Area N �p8 CpG Land Use Legend ® Highway Commercial QD Mixed Use Industrial \Office S s 0 0.05 0.1 0.2 0.3 Miles 2040 Comprehensive Policy Plan Map I I I Draft 1 II$ _• it i, C iFJ _iI II �l TINT � .. • If�110uo� _1 1.4; At 1pp X7 - • -- APPENDIX II - BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES • HISTORICAL BACKGROUND • GEOGRAPHICAL IMPACTS • DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS • ECONOMIC ANALYSIS • LAND USE ANALYSIS THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES HISTORICAL BACKGROUND Early European Settlement; For 12,000 years prior to English Settlement of the Shenandoah Valley, a sparse population of Native Americans lived in the area, but many more traveled through these valleys on the "Indian War Path" from New York and Pennsylvania to winter in Georgia and South Carolina. The first Europeans to come through the Shenandoah Valley were Jesuit missionaries in 1632, and the details of this wilderness area were first mapped by French explorer, Samuel de Champlain. The first private English ownership of Frederick County was the Virginia Company, which was tasked with the settlement of the Virginia Colony by King James I. Ownership of the area returned to the Crown in 1624 when the Virginia Company's charter was revoked. In 1649, King Charles II granted seven royalist supporters the land "bounded by and within the heads" of the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers. By 1681, Thomas, the Second Lord Culpepper, owned most of this original land grant. After he died in 1689, his daughter married Thomas, the Fifth Lord Fairfax, and later, their son Thomas, the Sixth Lord Fairfax, inherited the entire land grant. Englishmen settled the Piedmont, then pushed west by foot and horse through passes in the Blue Ridge, and many more German and Scotch -Irish settlers came down through the valleys from Philadelphia and Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Some of the earliest settlers of this area were Quakers who built the Hopewell Friends Meeting House, which still stands near Clearbrook and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These settlers were attracted by the fertile soils and the abundant forest and water resources. Initial Settlement and Organization: The Colonial government of Virginia wanted this wilderness settled as quickly as possible, as a buffer against the Native Americans; but Robert "King" Carter, Lord Fairfax's agent, was settling Fairfax's land slowly in large plantations. The government of Virginia had chartered counties in the Fairfax land grant as settlement spread up the Northern Neck and west. Virginia argued that Fairfax's land grant ended at the Blue Ridge and began granting up to 1,000 acres each to settler families west of the Blue Ridge. Abraham Hollingsworth settled near the site of Abrams Delight, now located within the Winchester City limits, in about 1729. Owen Thomas and Jeremiah Smith came to Back Creek in 1730 and settled on 806 acres granted in Thomas' name. Smith left and returned with a wife before 1741. His log cabin is now part of a house west of Back Creek and south of Route 50. In 1732, Jost Hite settled 16 families on his 5,000 acre "grant" and built Hite's Fort at Bartonsville, located on Route 11, approximately two miles south of Winchester. The "Indian Path" became the Great Wagon Road to Philadelphia and Native Americans were dispossessed westward by treaty and force of arms. Frederick County was created from western Orange County by the House of Burgesses on December 21, 1738, and was named after Frederick Louis, the Prince of Wales and son of King George II, and originally spanned from the Blue Ridge Mountains to current day Ohio. In 1744, James Wood, County Surveyor for Orange County, platted a town at the County seat, which he named Winchester, after his birthplace. It consisted of 26 half -acre lots and three streets within 1300 acres, which he THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES claimed as wilderness land owned by Virginia. Those streets are now Loudoun, Boscawen, and Cameron. Winchester was officially chartered in 1752. County government in Virginia was originally by self-perpetuating courts. Frederick County's Court was proclaimed and organized in 1743, and its officials took their oaths of office on November 11th of that year. The Frederick County Court first met at the surveying office of its clerk, James Wood, at the site on which he later built his estate, Glen Burnie. The original Frederick County has since been divided into the following Counties*: In Virginia: Dunmore (now Shenandoah) - 1772 Page - 1831 Warren - 1836 Clarke - 1836 In West Virginia: Hampshire - 1753 Berkeley - 1772 Hardy - 1776 Jefferson - 1801 Morgan - 1820 Mineral - 1866 Grant - 1866 By the mid -1740s, the Frederick County Court had acknowledged that Lord Fairfax's land grant did include Frederick County, despite previous arguments that the Fairfax lands ended at the Blue Ridge Mountains. At the age of 16, George Washington was a member of a surveying party that came to Frederick County for Lord Fairfax in 1748. In 1749, Lord Fairfax moved to Frederick County and built his home, Greenway Court, at White Post, in present-day Clarke County. He accepted Wood's 1,300 acre claim and other additional lots at Winchester. Eventually, 11 other counties would be created from the 3,824 square miles included in the original Frederick County. George Washington maintained a relationship with Winchester and Frederick County during and after his surveying expedition for Lord Fairfax. Early during those years, Washington operated his surveying office in Winchester and oversaw the construction of Fort Loudoun. Washington's first elected office was as a representative of Frederick County in the House of Burgesses 1758. He served in this post for 15 years. During the French and Indian War, he was given a Commission by Governor Dinwiddie of Virginia and was later promoted to Commander in Chief of the colonial forces with headquarters in Winchester. The location of the headquarters for the western campaign helped to stimulate growth in Winchester throughout the French and Indian War which in turn led to improvements along trade/travel roads, the creation of additional lots in Winchester, and the formation of Stephensburg, which is now Stephens City. The American Revolution in Frederick County; Although there were no battles or military engagements in Frederick County during the Revolutionary War, the area was very important in the effort. Prior to the drafting of the Declaration of Independence, a group of protesters met in Winchester to protest King George's taxes on the colonies. They drafted the Frederick County Resolves and promised not to purchase English wares until their grievances were resolved. During the war, General Daniel Morgan, who lived in eastern Frederick County (now Clarke County), and his "Long Rifles" played a prominent role in many battles of the Revolutionary War, including the Battle at Cowpens in South Carolina. His regiment of expert riflemen was one of two from Virginia. Several local citizens furnished the troops with food and supplies, including Isaac Zane Jr. who supplied the army with ammunition made at his ironworks in Marlboro. Many prisoners captured during the War were held in Winchester and Frederick County. By 1779, the number of British prisoners held in Winchester had increased beyond the capacity of the THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 2 APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES existing prison and a larger one was built. A barracks was built four miles west of Winchester to hold these prisoners whose number had increased to 1,600 by the year 1781. After the Revolution, the trade routes established during the French and Indian War continued to develop and provide avenues for trade between farmers in Frederick County and those in Eastern Virginia. Winchester grew as a travel and commercial hub in Western Virginia. Early National Period: During the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, life in Frederick County centered on small family farms and transportation and trade routes. By the 1770s, the Indian Warpath through Frederick County had transformed into the Great Wagon Road and forms what is now US Route 11. In addition to Route 11, other major roads were established through Winchester including what are now Route 50 West, 522 South, and Route 7 East. These four major roads provided avenues of transportation and made trade possible across the state of Virginia as well as major cities North and South of Virginia. As a result, Winchester and the surrounding area grew in terms of residential occupants and commercial occupants. Economic life was centered around Winchester and other local towns including Stephens City, Middletown, Kernstown, Gainesboro and Gore, which remain centers of economic and community growth today. The number of craftsmen and merchants in these towns was large and diverse. The strongest influence on the local economy was the Great Wagon Road which carried settlers and travelers from Philadelphia, south through the Valley and to the west. Activity associated with this road made Winchester one of the largest towns in western Virginia. Farming in this region focused on several main crops which grew well in the soils of the area. During this period, wheat production became the center of the local economy, along with cattle farming, and by 1810, Frederick County was one of the largest producers of wheat in Virginia. Economic growth in the area was predominantly encouraged by agricultural activities and their industrial counterparts, such as milling and transporting of the locally grown products. By 1820, there were 54 grain mills in Frederick County along with numerous sawmills, tanneries, and other business activities. Growth in the area continued into the mid -nineteenth century, when the County was faced with Civil War and the turbulence that this area felt as a consequence of its location at the crossroads of many major roads and railroads. The American Civil War; In the early to mid -nineteenth century, issues were brewing in Frederick County which mirrored those across the Nation. As agriculture developed in the County, a clear division formed areas east of the Opequon (current day Clarke County), where slave labor constituted most of the population and areas west of the Opequon, where small family- owned farms were the agricultural trend. In 1836, Clarke County split from Frederick County, largely over this issue. During the Civil War, Frederick County played a significant role, primarily due to its location at the intersection of many major roads. The northern Shenandoah Valley supplied food, THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 3 APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES livestock, horses, and soldiers to the Confederacy. The Valley was also important because of its strategic location in relation to Washington D.C. The town of Winchester changed hands about 70 times during the course of the war, an average of once every three weeks, for four years. Major local battles included the First Battle of Kernstown in March of 1862, during which General Stonewall Jackson suffered his only tactical defeat during the Valley Campaign. However, Jackson did succeed in keeping Union troops in the Valley from leaving to reinforce McClellan on the peninsula. This was the first major encounter of the War in this area. In May of 1862, Jackson's army defeated the Union troops at the First Battle of Winchester. In the Second Battle of Winchester in 1863, Confederate troops successfully attacked and defeated Union troops occupying forts on the western side of Winchester. The most critical effort of the campaign was the battle at Stephenson's Depot and a portion of the battlefield remains intact today. Union troops were again defeated at the second battle of Kernstown in 1864. Belle Grove and Cedar Creek Battlefield National Historic Park: In 2002, the National Park Service created the Belle Grove and Cedar Creek Battlefield National Historic Park to protect the integrity of this important battle of the Civil War. All park land remains under the operation of the Cedar Creek Battlefield Foundation and the Belle Grove Plantation or private ownership. The Battlefield Foundation sponsors reenactments of the Battle of Cedar Creek and other battles of importance throughout the year. Belle Grove operates as a historic house museum and guided tours are available. At the Third Battle of Winchester, General Philip Sheridan's Union troops successfully attacked Confederate troops at Winchester. With the high numbers of losses on both sides, a new war of attrition began in the Valley from which the southern forces would never recover. For three weeks in 1864, Sheridan's troops undertook the infamous "Burning" to end Confederate strength in the Valley. Virginia's richest valley was left desolate. In October of 1864, Jubal Early's Confederate troops were entrenched south of Cedar Creek. General Sheridan's Union troops were encamped just north of Cedar Creek. A surprise attack by the Confederates drove the Union troops to the north. General Sheridan, arriving from Winchester upon hearing of the attack, rallied his troops and launched a massive counterattack which drove Early's troops back across Cedar Creek. The Confederate defeat at the Battle of Cedar Creek meant the loss of Confederate control of the crucial Shenandoah Valley for the remainder of the war. Thomas Bucannan Read wrote a poem, "Sheridan's Ride," to memorialize the general's horseback dash from Winchester to the battlefield. This Union victory, in combination with General Sherman's victory in Georgia, helped to secure President Lincoln's reelection. The Civil War took both a physical and economic toll on Frederick County and the surrounding area. As the primary 'breadbasket" of Virginia, the Shenandoah Valley was affected more by the Civil War than any other war fought on American soil. THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT E! APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES Reconstruction: Through six major battles and countless minor skirmishes, the Civil War brought much destruction to Frederick County. Many farms, mills, and dwellings were damaged or destroyed by the cannon fire from the battlefields or by soldiers raiding for food and supplies. The county's economic productivity was greatly reduced. This period was characterized by a slow economic recovery, but by the 1880s, economic stability gradually returned. After the war, previous economic activities resumed, and new activities began. New businesses included the emergence of apple production, tanning, dairying, machinery production, and the shipping industry. These new avenues of commercial growth allowed the county's economy to rebound at a steady rate and by the 1880s, some of the county's agricultural crop production had returned to pre-war levels. By 1890, Frederick County had 37 mills, eight woolen factories, a steam elevator, two iron foundries, four glove factories, a boot and shoe factory, ten broom factories, four tanneries, a large paper mill, three newspapers, a book bindery, eight cigar factories, three marble yards, and two furniture factories. There was also a tremendous building boom in the county between 1880-1900. In addition to new construction, older structures were often enlarged and updated using modern building techniques and styles. This growth occurred in both rural areas and in small communities that had previously developed in the 18th and 19th centuries. New communities were also formed as a result of newer, more advanced transportation systems. Among the communities that experienced growth during this period were Meadow Mills, Hayfield, Gore, Mountain Falls, Mount Williams, Gravel Springs, Gainesboro, Albin, Brucetown, White Hall, and Armel. Centers of African American culture also developed during this period as a result of the segregation which followed the end of the Civil War. Communities such as Cedar Hill, Freetown, and Leetown became centers of the African American culture in Frederick County. To mediate the impact of segregation on daily activities, these communities developed public buildings and facilities such as schools and churches, for their own use. THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 5 APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES GEOGRAPHICAL SETTING LOCATION Frederick County is the northernmost jurisdiction in the Commonwealth of Virginia. It lies at the northern end of the Shenandoah Valley, west of the Blue Ridge Mountains and east of the Alleghenies. 1 Located in the Mid -Atlantic region of the United States, Frederick County's location on the eastern seaboard is a valuable asset to companies serving the US markets and Europe. It places local ' businesses halfway between the markets of the north and south, within one -day haul of 50% of the U.S. population. Over 60% of the goods t manufactured in the United States are distributed from the 750 -mile (1,207 kilometers) area. For national and international companies being in the Eastern Time Zone maximizes their hours of operations, which helps to improve efficiencies. In addition to being halfway between Boston and Atlanta, Winchester -Frederick County is well positioned equidistant between Los Angeles and London. Excellent road, rail, inland ocean port and Dulles World Cargo Center provide access to the major markets in North America, Latin America, and globally. 8 boo, Chiuga hw mrt hook, I 4 An�mn 2 h<w7cihCit. LYS S a,nimom 3 . Stran�,a h[lanta Chsdeetoii ' •.�.mille Metropolitan Wash ngtonllBaltimore _! Washillou:hd: rmle Metropolitan Statistical Area THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 1.1 APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES TOPOGRAPHY Generally, the topography of Frederick County is characterized by the rolling Shenandoah Valley, 8 to 10 miles wide and on its west flank, mountains, ridges and valleys of the Appalachian system. Frederick County and the City of Winchester comprise 425 square miles; the City of Winchester occupies 9.23 square miles within the County's boundaries. The average altitude of the broad valley is about 700 feet and that of the ridgetops and mountaintops is about 1,950 feet. The most prominent mountains are along the Virginia - West Virginia boundary, with Pinnacle Knob (2,844 feet) the highest point in the County. The lowest point in the County is about 500 feet. Handley Library, in the center of Winchester, is at 714 feet. Three aspects of the topography provide the area with a highly favorable visual environment. The Blue Ridge Mountains on the east serve both as a barrier to overly ambitious development from the Mid -Atlantic metropolitan area and provide a backdrop to a verdant landscape of farms and orchards. The easy rolling topography also provides character but is not an impediment to development. The easily traversed Valley and the fabled Shenandoah River defined the outstanding network of modern transportation providing easy accessibility to the most important North American cities. GEOPHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS The County has three geophysical areas as shown on the Physical Characteristics and Geologic Formations map. The eastern area of the County is underlain by the Martinsburg shale which consists of a band running north -south along the length of the County, generally east of Interstate 81. It consists of broad, level ridges separated by steep stream valleys. The soils derived from the shales tend to be thin, poorly fertile, and have high seasonal water tables. The soils are highly compacted and not well suited for intensive agriculture or onsite sewage disposal systems. Primarily the historical use of this land is pasture and has in recent years been developed for residential and urban uses. Substantial suburban development served by public water and sewer is located within this area. The central area is located between Interstate 81 and Little North Mountain. It consists of a band approximately five miles wide that also trends southwest to northeast, is underlain by limestone/carbonate bedrock, and displays gently rolling karst topography. This area contains the bulk of the prime agricultural soils in the County and supports apple and other fruit production, beef cattle operations, and some crop production, primarily hay and corn. The western area is the Ridge and Valley which is underlain by a variety of shale, sandstone, and limestone formations. This mostly forested area consists of alternating valleys and ridges that run southwest to northeast. The western area is the Ridge and Valley which is underlain by a variety of shale, sandstone, and limestone formations. This mostly forested area consists of alternating valleys and ridges that run southwest to northeast. Ridges are often very steep and are the highest elevations in the County. Some stress fractures are present along the fold lines of the highly folded vertical beds. The vertical bedrock layers provide a barrier to most groundwater movement across the beds. Groundwater moves laterally along the folded bedrock, with little movement through the fold system. THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 7 APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES These three geographic regions can be further divided into four distinct drainage areas. The southern third of the county drains towards the south and east to Cedar Creek and Stephens Run is in the Shenandoah River basin. The northern two-thirds of the County are divided north -south by Apple Pie Ridge, Round Hill and Little North Mountain forming the boundary between the Back Creek and Opequon Creek watersheds. These areas drain toward the north and the east, respectively, and are in the Potomac River Basin. The limestone -carbonate geology drains to the east, but includes random flow patterns throughout this topography, including some areas that are internally drained. Drainage areas provide a good basis for planning sewer and water service areas through gravity flow design. The movement of public sewage flow between the limestone -carbonate and the Ridge and Valley area requires pumping. Regional geophysical characteristics influence suitability for more intensive forms of development. Urban development is predominant in the eastern shale belt and uses public sewer and water facilities. Rural residential development is predominantly in the limestone belt west of Winchester, Interstate 81 and Route 37. Despite the presence of prime soils, agricultural land use in this area has decreased due to development pressures. The relatively steep areas in the western portions of the County remain rural; however, development is increasing. CLIMATE There are four distinct seasons. Few days fall near zero. Nine years in ten will have growing seasons from 148 to 219 days, depending on daily minimum temperature. The average number of growing degree days is 6,989.4, and the latest freeze (one year in ten; 280 or lower) is April 15th. Only two years in ten will have extreme temperatures of more than 1030 or less than -100 F. Average January temperature 31OF Average July temperature 860F Average annual precipitation 37.56" inches Average annual snowfall 22.5" inches THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 4w Limestone / Carbonate Bedrock (Potentially Karst) (=) Valley and Ridge F (Shale, Sandstone C) Martinsburg Shale 0 0.5 1 2 3 4 5 6 I I I I I I I Miles Geophysical Characteristics Reynolds Sto re 2040 Comprehensive Plan Draft Brook APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES DEMOGRAPHIC AND TREND ANALYSIS OVERVIEW Demographic information is an important component in planning for future needs and services of the community. It is important to understand the state of the county today, what has shaped it through the years, and how it is likely to change over time. Demographic data is gathered from a range of Federal, State and local agencies. While the U.S. decennial census is the best-known survey method, the American Community Survey (ACS) and the Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service at the University of Virginia (Weldon Cooper Center) are also significant resources. The ACS is an ongoing nationwide survey conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau that collects annual data such as age, sex, race, family and relationships, income, and housing for jurisdictions with population above 65,000. The Weldon Cooper Center develops and releases the official population estimates for Virginia, its counties, and independent cities every year between decennial censuses. This section provides general information regarding historical, current, and projected populations, income, education, age, and diversity. HISTORICAL POPULATION Over the past three decades, Frederick County has experienced significant population growth. Between 1980 and 1990, the County saw a 40 percent increase in its population. Between 1990-2000 and 2000-2010, the County's population continued to grow but at a slower rate of 24% and 32% respectively. Since 2010 Frederick County has grown by 14.7 percent, more than double the state average growth of 7.3 percent for the same period. 100,000 80,000 60,000 40,000 20,000 0 Frederick County Population by Decade 1960-2020 89,790 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 Source: Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service: July 1, 2020 Population Estimates for Virginia and its Counties and Cities (January 29, 2021) THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT W APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES Population Change 2010 to 2019 _ Declined more than 5 Percent - Declined 0 to 5 Percent Grew 0 to 5 Percent - Grew 5 to 10 Percent - Grew more than 10 Percent I I ri Source: 2010 Decennial Census and 2019 Weldon Cooper Center County and City Population Estimates POPULATION ESTIMATES The 2020 population estimated for the County is approximately 89,790 persons. Future projected growth, as shown by the Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service, shows an estimated increase of 16 percent from 2020 to 2030, and 12 percent from 2030 to 2040. This trend is shown in the following graph. 140,000 120,000 100,000 80,000 60,000 40,000 20,000 0 Population Projections 2020-2040 2020 104.608 2030 117,452 2040 Source: Weldon Cooper Cen ter 1br Public Service, *2030 &2040Population Projections (2019) Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service: July 1, 2020 Population Estimates for Virginia and its Counties and Cities (January 29, 2021) THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 11 APPENDIX II - BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES AGE GROUPS - TRENDS AND PROJECTIONS An important trend to note is the increasing age of people living in Frederick County. Between 2000 and 2020, the median age has increased from 36 to 40.7. Overall, Frederick County's population is slightly older than the state (38.5) and the country (38.1). As the median age rose, the percentage of the population in the older age groups has also increased. The population of individuals in Frederick County 65 and over is projected to continue increasing at a much higher percentage than other age groups. This age group increased 58 percent from 2000 to 2010 and 46 percent from 2010 to 2019. The population under the age of 18, while increasing by 26 percent from 2000 to 2010 is estimated to have a substantially smaller increase from 2010-2019 of only 1.4 percent. The percentage increase for the major workforce age group, 25-44, has also seen a significant slowing with only a 2.3 percent increase estimated from 2010 to 2019. The fact further emphasizes the need to analyze our regional labor force market to meet future employment needs including job retention and job recruitment for this age group. These trends are further shown in the table and graph below. It should be noted that the 2019 figures are derived from the 2019 American Community Study (US Census, 5 -year data) and more accurate data will be shown in the 2020 Census. Population Distribution: Frederick County Percent Percent Change Change 2000 Census 2010 Census 2019 ACS 2000 to 2010 2010 to 2019 5 yr. Estimate 120,000 100,000 80,000 60,000 40,000 20,000 0 6.4% 6.3% 6.0% 29.9% 3.6% 19.8% 18.8% 17.1% 24.8% .6% 7% 7.9% 7.8% 48.4% 9.8% 31.8% 26.3% 24.4% 9.3% 2.3% 24.1% 28% 27.9% 53.3% 13.3% 10.6% 12.7% 16.8% 57.9% 45.8% Population by Age Group 2000 Census 2010 Census 2019 Est. 2030* 2040* ■ 65 and over 1145-64 ■ 25-44 1118-24 ■ 5-17 ❑ Under 5 Source: *Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service, 2019 Population Estimates: Age and Sex (Virginia Localities) *American Community Survey, Demographic and Housing Estimates, 5 -year estimates, U.S. Census Bureau. THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 12 APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES RACE AND ETHNICITY Frederick County's population has become more diverse since 2010. As of 2019, the County's population was primarily white (82.3% not including individuals of Hispanic origin) and there was an almost equal proportion of males and females. It should be noted that the Hispanic/Latino group has seen a 61 percent increase from 2010 to 2020. This group is projected to continue increasing at a higher rate than other groups. The following summarizes ethnicity characteristics from 2000, 2010, estimated figures for 2019 and projected increases for 2030 and 2040. White Black Asian Other Hispanic/Latino Race & Ethnicity Trends 1 0 2040* 2030* 2019 E ■ 2010 ■ 2000 I 0 10,000 20,000 30,000 40,000 50,000 60,000 70,000 80,000 Source: 2019 American Community Survey 5 -year estimates, U.S. Census Bureau. (The category "Other" includes American Indian and Alaskan Natives, Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander) *2030 & 2040 Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service Projections, 2019 Estimates by Race THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 13 APPENDIX II - BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES EDUCATION The following chart depicts the percentage of Frederick County's residents 25 years or older by their highest educational achievement, compared to surrounding counties and the State as a whole. 4% 4.8% 3.3%M` 4.9% t 4.1% 6.8% 6.1% 9.8% 8.1% 6.2% 32.4% 29.6% 35.9% '1W 37.9% 24% 19.7% 18% 22.1% 20.3% 19.2% 8.9% 9.3% 7.2% 8.3% 7.8% 16.2% 17.3% 15.1% 14% 22% 12% 14.8% 6.7% 6.6% 16.8% Source: 2019 American Community Survey 5 -year estimates, U.S. Census Bureau INCOME CHARACTERISTICS Frederick County's gross median household income is $78,002 which exceeds that of the state at $74,222. The current percentage breakdown for income in Frederick County shows that just over 11 percent of households earn less than $25,000, 37 percent earn between $25,000 and $74,002. Over 37 percent of county households earn between $75,000- $149,00 per year and just over 15 percent earn more than $150,000. Poverty is another important economic indicator to consider. As of 2019, Frederick County had a poverty rate of 4.3 percent, which is less than the state average of 7.1%. 12,000 10,000 8,000 6,000 4,000 2,000 U Income 2000-2019 Less Than $25,000 to $50,000 to $100,000 to $150,000 to Greater than $25,000 $50,000 $100,000 $150,000 $200,000 $200,000 Source: 2010 and 2019 American Community Survey 5 -year estimates, U.S. Census Bureau, 2000 Census THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 14 APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES ECONOMIC ANALYSIS The study of the economy of Frederick County involves many factors. This chapter examines the change in employment sectors, the role of small business and top employers. Change in Frederick County's economy, undoubtedly, is evident in this chapter; however, the strong signs of stability with appropriate diversity are particularly noteworthy. RECENT EMPLOYMENT COMPARISONS AND TRENDS An analysis of the employment segments reveals minimal overall change in the Frederick County economy since 2011. While the absolute number of employment change is significant for some of the largest employers, 4 of the top employers in 2005 remain ten years later. Health Care and Social Assistance and Accommodation and Food Services employment are the two new arrivals to the top employer list. The growth of Winchester Medical Center and Frederick County's population remain likely reasons for its rise. Overall, retail trade displayed the largest growth of the top employers (+1,677). Manufacturing's overall net increase is noteworthy given its decrease in the Commonwealth overall. Looking into the next twenty years, population increase and continued economic forces will likely influence Frederick County's economy and its largest employment sectors. Established manufacturing clusters in food, plastics, metals, and printing combined with an emerging concertation of back-office users should likely their employment levels remain stable and/or increase due to 45 -minute drive -time labor supply of more than 330,000 professionals and central East Coast location. Retail, construction, and healthcare growth fueled by population growth will gain additional employment and likely rise in its role within the economy. Joining the national and state trends, Frederick County will diversify further via professional and creative services and headquarters and back-office employment. Information and communication technology, engineering, cyber security, data centers and back-office operations likely lead this surge. Although the major employment players remain mostly the same, their impact on the community has clearly changed. Viewing the growth in net new establishments provides an alternative view on the role of the larger employment segments. The growth in the number of manufacturing establishments is a prime example. This fact along with overall positive employment growth in this sector demonstrates a very positive evolving manufacturing sector. The future of Frederick County's economy shines bright given manufacturing's noted large multiplier impact and above average wage: THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 15 - . • Manufacturing 4,037 Manufacturing 5,999 Educational Services 2,930 Transportation and 3,726 _ Warehousing _ Retail Trade 2,801 Retail Trade 3,638 Retail Trade Construction 2,542 Educational Services 3,222 Accommodation and Food Services 1,875 Construction 2,898 Health Care and Social Assistance 1,609 Accommodation and Food 2,388 Services Looking into the next twenty years, population increase and continued economic forces will likely influence Frederick County's economy and its largest employment sectors. Established manufacturing clusters in food, plastics, metals, and printing combined with an emerging concertation of back-office users should likely their employment levels remain stable and/or increase due to 45 -minute drive -time labor supply of more than 330,000 professionals and central East Coast location. Retail, construction, and healthcare growth fueled by population growth will gain additional employment and likely rise in its role within the economy. Joining the national and state trends, Frederick County will diversify further via professional and creative services and headquarters and back-office employment. Information and communication technology, engineering, cyber security, data centers and back-office operations likely lead this surge. Although the major employment players remain mostly the same, their impact on the community has clearly changed. Viewing the growth in net new establishments provides an alternative view on the role of the larger employment segments. The growth in the number of manufacturing establishments is a prime example. This fact along with overall positive employment growth in this sector demonstrates a very positive evolving manufacturing sector. The future of Frederick County's economy shines bright given manufacturing's noted large multiplier impact and above average wage: THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 15 APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES Overall, Frederick County boasted nearly 2,000 establishments in 2019, an additional 336 since 2009 Service based businesses; education and health services (+189) and financial services (+52) produced the largest net gain in new establishments since 2009. These sectors collectively employ just about 70 percent of the employees of manufacturing sector. Advancing twenty years, health care and professional service entities will likely continue to add to their totals furthering Frederick County's diversification into a manufacturing/service- based economy. *MR W Trade, transportation, and Trade, transportation, and utilities 357 utilities 387 Construction 276 Education and Health Services 386 Professional and business services Professional and business 265 283 services Education and Health Services 197 Construction 226 Other Services Other Services 123 175 Leisure and hospitality 122 Leisure and hospitality 151 Financial Services 98 Financial Services 128 Manufacturing 91 Manufacturing 104 SMALL BUSINESS A discussion about any economy would be incomplete without reviewing the role of small businesses. Their importance to a community's long term economic success cannot be overstated. In the United States overall, they employ nearly half of all private sector employees. They generated 60 to 80 percent of net new job annually over the last decade. The definition of small business varies widely. For this chapter's purpose, small business will be identified as those employers with less than 19 employees. The impact of small business can be viewed by total number of businesses and total number of employees within these businesses. In 2020, 85% of all employers in Frederick County had less than 19 employees. Conversely, small business in Frederick County employ 20% of all employees. Given the number of arrival/increase of large employers like Amazon, Navy Federal Credit Union, Trex and Valley Health Systems, the ability of small business to hold their role in Frederick County's economy is integral to Frederick County's economic success. THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 16 APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES EmDlovers by Size of Establishment 0 to 4 employees 1,154 187,416 5 to 9 employees 262 38,189 10 to 19 employees 225 26,710 20 to 49 employees 176 18,273 50 to 99 employees 57 6,159 100 to 249 employees 27 3,405 250 to 499 employees 14 1,035 500 to 999 employees *** 330 1000 and over employees *** 239 1,92-0 ZUIL,/bb EmDlovment by Size of Establishment 0 to 4 employees 1,550 242,220 5 to 9 employees 1,742 253,076 10 to 19 employees 3,032 361,580 20 to 49 employees 5,404 547,266 50 to 99 employees 3,980 424,971 100 to 249 employees 3,611 509,016 250 to 499 employees 4,693 355,425 500 to 999 employees *** 226,021 1000 and over employees *** 640,210 Note: Asterisks (***) indicate non -disclosable data. 'Zero; no employment' typically represents new startup firms or sole proprietorships. Source: Virginia Employment Commission, Economic Information & Analytics, Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW), 2nd Quarter (April, May, June) 2020 Small businesses will retain the vast majority of employment in Frederick County. As such, entrepreneurship/small business development should remain one of the pinnacles of Frederick County's economic development. It is a beacon indicating when a community has an ideal business climate - when all physical and soft infrastructure is in place to allow new companies togrow and the community to self -sustain economic growth. The community's undeveloped entrepreneurial culture has often been highlighted in studies as a hurdle to continue economic growth. THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 17 APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES CURRENT TOP EMPLOYERS Over ten years ago, Frederick County's economy was chiefly led by major manufacturers and local government entities. Manufacturers established deep roots due to the area's immense access to the East Coast, Virginia's favorable cost of business, and Frederick County's productive workforce. Frederick County School Board Educational Services 1000 and over employees County of Frederick Executive, Legislative, and Other General 500 to 999 Government Support _ employees U.S. Department of Homeland Defense Administration of Economic Programs 500 to 999 _ employees _ Kraft Foods Food Manufacturing 250 to 499 employees Lord Fairfax Community College Educational Services 250 to 499 employees H.P. Hood, Inc. Food Manufacturing 250 to 499 _ employees Navy Federal Credit Union Credit Intermediation and Related Activities 250 to 499 _ employees The Home Depot Building Material and Garden Equipment and 250 to 499 Supplies Dealers employees Shockey Brothers, Inc. Nonmetallic Mineral Product Manufacturing 250 to 499 employees Westminster Canterbury Nursing and Residential Care Facilities 250 to 499 employees Today, the make-up of the largest employers is quite more diverse than 2020. While manufacturers still hold several slots in the top ten, many service base employers, like Navy Federal, Home Depot and Department of Homeland Defense, have provided a more diverse economy than 10 years ago. These new additions provide enhanced stability during instance of plant closures and national economic downturns. Frederick County School Board Navy Federal Credit Union I U.S. Department of Homeland Defense Trex Company Inc & Subsid County of Frederick H.P. Hood, Inc. The Home Depot Lord Fairfax Community College Fisher Scientific Company Martin's Food Market Educational Services Management of Companies and Enterprises Administration of Economic Programs Plastics and Rubber Products Manufacturing Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support Food Manufacturing Building Material and Garden Equipment and Supplies Dealers Educational Services Chemical Manufacturing Food and Beverage Stores 1000 and over employees 1,000 and over employees 1,000 and over employees 500 to 999 employees i 500 to 999 employees 500 to 999 employees 500 to 999 employees 250 to 499 employees 250 to 499 employees 250 to 499 employees THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 18 APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES FUTURE BUSINESS GROWTH In 20 years, the top employer listing may contain many of the same names, but likely they will be joined by some of the employers of tomorrow. Third partyanalyses have indicated a strong likelihood of success toward other business service operations, life science entities and defense/advance security -oriented businesses. The full list follows below. CURRENT WORKFORCE DRAW Frederick County's labor supply is drawn from a 45 -mile radius and includes the counties of Shenandoah, Page, Clarke, Warren, Loudoun in Virginia, and the counties of Berkeley, Hampshire, Hardy, Jefferson, and Morgan in West Virginia and Washington County, Maryland. The largest major occupation group in the Workforce Draw Area is Office and Administrative Support Occupations, employing 34,103 workers. The next -largest occupation groups in the region are Sales and Related Occupations (29,792 workers) and Transportation and Material Moving Occupations (29,761). High location quotients (LQs) indicate occupation groups in which a region has high concentrations of employment compared to the national average. The major groups with the largest LQs in the region are Transportation and Material Moving Occupations (LQ = 1.24), Sales and Related Occupations (1.08), and Educational Instruction and Library Occupations (1.07). Occupation groups in the Workforce Draw Area with the highest average wages per worker are Management Occupations ($110,100), Legal Occupations ($101,000), and Computer and Mathematical Occupations ($90,300). The unemployment rate in the region varied among the major groups from 1.8% among Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Occupations to 11.4% among Personal Care and Service Occupations. Advanced Manufacturing Niche IndustryTargets Plastic products Engineered Wood Products I Fabricated Metal Products Bioscience C Supportive Logistics Consulting & Trucking Operations Professional & Creative Services Niche IndustryTargets Information & Communication Technology I Data Centers Cybersecurity I Engineering Headquarters & Back Office Niche IndustryTargets Corporate Headquarters I Back Office I Service Centers Agribusiness & Food Processing Niche Industry Targets Specialty Food & Beverages I Packaged Foods Perishable Foods I Beverages & Breweries THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 19 APPENDIX II - BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES Over the next 10 years, the fastest growing occupation group in the Workforce Draw Area is expected to be Healthcare Support Occupations with a +2.0% year -over -year rate of growth. The strongest forecast by number of jobs over this period is expected for Healthcare Support Occupations (+2,646 jobs) and Food Preparation and Serving Related Occupations (+2,377). Current 5 -Year History 10 -Year Forecast Unempl Employment Empl Ann % 1 LQ Unempl Ann 0.93 1,917 1.08 2,093 1.24 2,587 1.01 3,176 0.93 473 1.05 355 a u Mean Occupation Empl Annual 0.9% 2.2% Wagesz Office and -132 -0.2% 1,254 0.2% -523 1.7% 1,263 0.4% 1,018 1.1% 2,646 0.7% 738 Administrative 34,103 $39,100 Support 277 602 390 Sales and Related 29,792 $38,600 Transportation and 29 761 $37,100 Material Moving 11.4% -599 Food Preparation 22,479 $25,900 and Serving Related 1.9% 1,129 Management 17,557 $110,100 Healthcare 0.6% 2.0% Practitioners and 17,447 $81,700 Technical 7.0% -258 Educational 161 0.4% Instruction and 17,282 $58,300 Library 165 0.4% Production 17,280 $40,100 Business and 13,775 $75,200 Financial Operations 1 84 1 0.9% Construction and 12,953 $45,800 Extraction 0.4% 9 0.2% 42 Healthcare Support 11,818 $30,300 Installation, Maintenance, and 11,476 $49,600 Repair Building and Grounds Cleaning 9,560 $30,200 and Maintenance Personal Care and 8,071 $30,300 Service Computer and 7,458 $90,300 Mathematical Protective Service 6,425 $48,200 Community and 4 954 $51,000 Social Service Arts, Design, Entertainment, 4,031 $53,700 Sports, and Media Architecture and 3,880 $85,800 Engineering _ Life, Physical, and 2,040 $73,600 Social Science Legal 1,884 $101,000 Farming, Fishing, 1,497 $32,900 and Forestry Total - All 285,522 $50,700 Occupations Current 5 -Year History 10 -Year Forecast Unempl Employment Empl Ann % 1 LQ Unempl Ann 0.93 1,917 1.08 2,093 1.24 2,587 1.01 3,176 0.93 473 1.05 355 a naac a.nangc 4.3% -1,870 5.8% -1,961 6.9% 2,652 10.9% -1,286 2.3% 745 1.8% 1,814 vIvwan -1.1% -703 -1.3% -23 1.9% 2,293 vIvwan -0.2% 0.0% 0.7% 1.0% 0.6% 1.0% -1.1% 2,377 1,019 1,799 0.9% 2.2% 1.07 ++ 912 1.03 1,257 0.86 479 0.97 1,676 0.93. 565 1.05 715 4.8% -132 -0.2% 1,254 0.2% -523 1.7% 1,263 0.4% 1,018 1.1% 2,646 0.7% 738 0.7% -0.3% 0.9% 0.8% 2.0% 0.6% 5.9% 2.6% 7.6% 3.8% 193 1,140 277 602 390 4.0% 1.01 778 1.07 1,266 0.85 288 1.03 237 0.99 101 0.79 I 381 6.1% -376 -0.8% 977 1.0% 1.2% 1.4% 11.4% -599 -1.4% 1,033 2.3% 658 1.9% 1,129 2.8% -93 -0.3% 390 0.6% 2.0% 145 0.6% 864 1.6% 7.0% -258 -1.2% 161 0.4% 0.78 142 2.6% 315 1.7% 165 0.4% 0.80 73 0.78 46 0.79 121 1.00 19,638 2.7% 281 3.0% 187 0.9% 2.0% 1 84 1 0.9% 157 0.8% 7.6% 31 2,753 0.4% 9 0.2% 42 0.3% 5.3% 18,263 0.6% THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 20 APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES Source:3obsE Data as of 2020Q3 unless noted otherwise Note: Figures may not sum due to rounding. 1. Data based on a four -quarter moving average unless noted otherwise. 2. Wage data are as of 2019 and represent the average for all Covered Employment 3. Data represent found online ads active within the last thirty days in the selected region; data represents a sampling rather than the complete universe of postings. Ads lacking zip code information but designating a place (city, town, etc.) may be assigned to the zip code with greatest employment in that place for queries in this analytic. Due to alternative county -assignment algorithms, ad counts in this analytic may not match that shown in RTI (nor in the popup window ad list). Occupation employment data are estimated via industry employment data and the estimated industry/occupation mix. Industry employment data are derived from the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages, provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and currently updated through 2020Q2, imputed where necessary with preliminary estimates updated to 2020Q3. Wages by occupation are as of 2019 provided by the BLS and imputed where necessary. Forecast employment growth uses national projections from the Bureau of Labor Statistics adapted for regional growth patterns. The unemployment rate for Frederick County, Virginia was 3.4% as of December 2020. The regional unemployment rate was lower than the national rate of 6.5%. One year earlier, in December 2019, the unemployment rate in Frederick County, Virginia was 2.0%. Unemployment Rate for Frederick County, Virginia n e m P I 0 12.0% y m � n 7� io 4 T MY Jan -11 Jan -12 Jan -13 Jan -14 Jan -15 Jan -16 Jan -17 Jan -18 Jan -19 Jan -20 a r ■Frederick County, \/irginia (3.4%) -\/irginia (4.7%) -USA (6.5%) Sow,J.b:EO°M,�,dD,, 202 o. The, hided ,r me 9,ph repre: � is lree:,ian:. e from the Local Area Unemployment Statistics, provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and updated through December 2020. As the table shows below, Frederick County possesses a diverse and ample labor force within its draw area.. Frederick Frederick County, Virginia USA County, Virginia USA Virginia Virginia Percent Value Economic Labor Force Participation Rate and Size (civilian population 16 years and over) 64.6% 65.2% 63.2% 44,524 4,356,868 163,555,585 Prime -Age Labor Force Participation Rate and Size (civilian population 25-54) 84.8% 83.6% 82.1% 28,338 2,788,406 104,634,905 Armed Forces Labor Force 0.2% 1.8% 0.4% 107 120,385 1,073,907 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 21 APPENDIX II - BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES Veterans, Age 18-64 6.3% 8.1% 4.6% 3,254 420,632 9,143,042 Veterans Labor Force Participation Rate ° 81.4/° and Size, Age 18-64 ° 83.0/ ° 76.6/ 2,649 348,936 7,003,778 Median Household Incomez - - - $78,002 $74,222 $62,843 Per Capita Income - - - $35,123 $39,278 $34,103 Educational Attainment, Age 25-64 No High School Diploma 9.3% 8.7% 10.9% 4,196 392,543 18,550,150 High School Graduate 31.5% 22.9% 25.7% 14,212 1,029,408 I 43,627,868 Some College, No Degree 20.4% 19.4% 20.7% 9,209 874,977 35,174,790 Associate's Degree 10.0% 8.3% 9.1% 4,539 374,819 15,526,064 Bachelor's Degree 16.8% 23.6% 21.2% 7,590 1,062,466 35,997,848 Postgraduate Degree 12.0% 17.1% 12.3% 5,424 770,727 20,961,560 Social Poverty Level (of all people) 6.2% 10.6% 13.4% 5,229 865,691 42,510,843 Households Receiving Food 4.4% 8.2% Stamps/SNAP 11.7% 1,394 259,639 14,171,567 Enrolled in Grade 12 (% of total 1.4% population) 1.4% 1,206 114,768 4,422,344 Source: JobsE COMMUTING PATTERNS The Winchester -Frederick County community is the regional economic epicenter for the Northern Shenandoah Valley region. One reason for this statement is found in the area's commuting patterns. More workers (3,302) commute into Winchester -Frederick County than commute out, positioning the community as an economic center of the Northern Shenandoah Valley. 60% of working individuals in Winchester -Frederick County live in Winchester -Frederick County (JobsEq 2020Q3). The benefits of our community having a large "live where you work"population is enormous. • Promotes linkage between employers and community. • Reduces commuting costs, thus increasing a household's disposable income. • Reduces employee turnover, training, and recruitment costs. • Makes our community a more attractive place for businesses to locate and expand. THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 22 APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES 60% LIVE & WORK Of the 57,070 Winchester -Frederick County residents employed, 34,205 choose to live & work here. Source: JohsFg2020Q3 I Last Updated: March 20211 Maynot sum due to rounding TAXABLE SALES The retail sector is important, though, as retail activity reflects the general health of a local economy. Retail sales also produce sales tax dollars, which support municipal service provision. In Frederick County the overall value of taxable sales grew from $860 million to nearly $1.4 billion in unadjusted dollars, currently. The growth of Frederick County's economy once again became apparent when examining the top taxable sales categories over the past 20 years. In 2010, general merchandise stores topped all taxable sales with a total of nearly $209 million. Fast forward to 2020, general merchandise stores still topped all taxable sales, but the total exceeded $340 million, a 64% increase. General Merchandise Stores IN -COMMUTING General Merchandise Stores $344,240,938 Winchester -Frederick County employment opportunities draw Out -Commuting 26,167 individuals into the area. Food Services and DrinkingMerchant 22,865 Wholesalers, Durable $100,440,867 Places -West Virginia 33% -Northern Virginia 54% -Adjacent Localities (in VA) 20% -Adjacent Virginia Localities 16% $100,894,684 Durable Goods (Clarke, Shenandoah, Warren) • Northern Virginia 16% •Other Areas 301/. $47,565,980 Food Services and Drinking $92,926,581 •Other Areas 30% Source: JohsFg2020Q3 I Last Updated: March 20211 Maynot sum due to rounding TAXABLE SALES The retail sector is important, though, as retail activity reflects the general health of a local economy. Retail sales also produce sales tax dollars, which support municipal service provision. In Frederick County the overall value of taxable sales grew from $860 million to nearly $1.4 billion in unadjusted dollars, currently. The growth of Frederick County's economy once again became apparent when examining the top taxable sales categories over the past 20 years. In 2010, general merchandise stores topped all taxable sales with a total of nearly $209 million. Fast forward to 2020, general merchandise stores still topped all taxable sales, but the total exceeded $340 million, a 64% increase. General Merchandise Stores $209,662,481 General Merchandise Stores $344,240,938 Food and Beverage Stores $154,331,080 Food and Beverage $188,189,903 Food Services and DrinkingMerchant $68,315,444 Wholesalers, Durable $100,440,867 Places Goods Merchant Wholesalers, $64,263,033 Building Material and Garden $100,894,684 Durable Goods Equipment and Supplies Dealers Gasoline Stations $47,565,980 Food Services and Drinking $92,926,581 Places THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 23 APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES LAND USE ANALYSIS ACHIEVING FISCAL BALANCE THROUGH LAND USE PLANNING THE 25% COMMERCIAL/ INDUSTRIAL - 75% OTHER REAL ESTATE TAX ASSESSMENT RATIO Local governments rely on the revenue collected from real estate taxes to fund their general operation. Therefore, the revenue -generating potential for properties receives strong consideration during land use and development decisions. In many circumstances, a site's ability to generate revenue, and an applicant's capability to adequately mitigate negative fiscal impacts, are driving factors behind the development approval process. Prompted in part by fiscal concerns, local governments plan for and ultimately zone large tracts of land for commercial and industrial use, to ensure there is adequate land available for current and future demand. This practice of using land use policies, such as a Comprehensive Plan, and the zoning ordinance to achieve fiscal objectives rather than purely land -use objectives is commonly referred to as 'fiscal zoning'. Under the fiscal zoning approach, local governments discourage proposed developments that have the potential to create a net financial burden on the county and will instead encourage development that promises a net financial gain. Fiscal considerations are a significant element of land use planning. The County has successfully utilized the Comprehensive Plan to designate areas of the County for future commercial and industrial (C/I) land use opportunities since the early 1970s. Over the years this practice has helped reserve appropriate areas of land for vital tax generating uses. Through the policies of the Comprehensive Plan, areas designated for C/I land uses can be implemented through the rezoning process, which then allows the property owner to develop the site. Once the C/I use has been constructed, the County is then able to bring in additional tax revenues from the site. Through the support and encouragement of C/I uses, the County over the past decade has successfully maintained a relatively low real estate tax rate while continuing to provide a high quality of public services to its citizens. The Frederick County Comprehensive Plan strives to incorporate a more comprehensive analysis of the C/I land uses and their contribution towards the county's fiscal health into its overall community planning effort. The importance of the C/I land use has elevated in recent years as the Country strives to overcome the challenging economic times. In an effort to plan for the county's prosperous future, the Comprehensive Plan has planned for sufficient acreage for C/I land use opportunities necessary to generate tax revenue to offset the county's costs for providing public services to residential land uses, which although necessary to accommodate population growth, on average does not pay for itself. It is the County's goal to create a plan that balances land uses and their associated tax contributions to ensure that they offset the cost of provided public services. This goal should be achieved by utilizing the land use plan to assist the County in achieving a real estate tax assessment ratio of 25 percent C/I to 75 percent other land uses such as residential. Ultimately, the land use plan should be designed to plan for adequate revenue opportunities to ensure that the County can provide its citizens with desired public services while maintaining the ability to keep a low tax rate. THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 24 APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES ANALYSIS Evaluation of Costs of Community Services (COCS) by land use A Cost of Community Services (COCS) study is one of the simplest forms of fiscal analysis available to local government. The COCS methodology was pioneered by the American Farmland Trust in the mid-1980s. It is based loosely on fiscal impact methodology, which attempts to gauge the net fiscal impact of different types of new development on a community. COCS studies require systematically assigning revenue and expenditures to particular land uses. It then computes the ratio of total expenditures required by land use to total revenues generated by land use. When examining the COCS results, if the ratio is less than one then the land use generates more revenue than it requires in expenditures and provides a local fiscal surplus. If the ratio is greater than one, then the land use requires more in the value of services than the revenue it generates creating a fiscal deficit. Median COCS Results COCS studies usually find that $1.25 commercial/ industrial and agriculture/open spaces ratios are much less than one and residential ratios are $1.00 higher than one. The American Farmland Trust conducted a COCS study for Frederick County in 2003. $.75 The American Farmland Trust (2010) computed median ratios of 1.16, 0.35, and 0.29 respectively for 152 $.so community studies. An examination of six studies conducted $.25 in the last 20 years within Virginia indicates an average of 1.18, 0.40, and .35, respectively. $.00 Business $'37 .....$.30 ...... Residential Median cost to provide public services for each dollar of revenue raised. Summary of Virginia COCS Studies Ratios Local Government Year Residential CommAnd. Ag.10pen Space Source Augusta County 1997 1:1.22 1:0.20 1:0.80 Valley Conservation Council Bedford County 2005 1:1:07 1:0.40 1:0.25 American Farmland Trust Clarke County 1994 1:1.26 1:0.21 1:0.15 Piedmont Environmental Council Culpeper County 2003 1:1.22 1:0.41 1:0.32 American Farmland Trust Frederick County 2003 1:1.19 1:0.23 1:0.33 American Farmland Trust Northampton County 1999 1:1:13 1:0.97 1:0.23 American Farmland Trust Source: American Farmland Trust *Source: American Farmland Trust, 2016 Cost of Community Services Studies THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 25 APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES Capital Impacts Model To project the capital impacts that would be associated with residential developments, Frederick County utilizes a Capital Impacts Model. This model is designed to evaluate the anticipated need for capital facilities based on growth and to determine the cost of those capital facilities to the County. The model also determines the cost to the County for mitigating the infrastructure impacts associated with rezoning's and identifies if a reasonable cash proffer can be collected for a development due to the presence of 'excess capacity" or not. The Capital Impacts Model is updated annually. Evaluation of County Tax Revenue and Expenditures Utilizing figures for the County's FY 2020-2021 Budget — Total County Revenues, one gains a better understanding from where funds are derived, and where those funds are then spent. Real Estate taxes represent approximately 35 percent of the County's general fund revenue, this is consistent with the past few years. This real estate tax revenue is derived from various land uses: residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural. FY 2021 General Fund Revenues 5201,038,131 Miscellaneous Charges for Services _ Recovered Costs196 2%- -_ Real Property Taxes Other Local Taxes _..- 35% 20% Shared Expenses 2% State Revenue — — 4% i i Permits, Fees, Licenses 19b Personal Property Taxes 33% Fines & Forfeitures {196 Non -Revenue 2°,6 Use of Money & Property 09€ In 2020 C/I land uses brought in almost $14 million in real estate taxes, or 20 percent of the total real estate tax revenue. It should be noted that C/I use only occupy 4 percent of the County's total land area and contribute $1,330 per acre in real estate taxes. THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 26 APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES In addition to real estate taxes, C/I land uses are also significant contributors to personal property, local sales, meals and lodging, business license, and other local taxes. C/I land uses are vital contributors to the local tax revenue and ultimately contribute almost half of the County's total tax revenue. At the other end of the spectrum, in 2020 residential land uses brought in $49 million in real estate taxes, or 72 percent of the total real estate tax revenue. Residential land uses make up 26 percent of the County's total land area and contributes an average of $707 per acre in real estate taxes. School Transfers, 54.28% FY 2021 General Fund Expenditures $201,035,1.31 Mon -Departmental, 1,50% Govt. Admin., 7.0006 Mu Public Safety, 21.26% Works, 2.874G dare, 5.57% 71% This review of the County's tax revenues and expenditures clearly illustrates that while residential land use contribute the majority of the real estate taxes collected by the County, the costs for covering services provided to those residents far exceeds their contributions. Through solid land use and financial planning, the County has maintained a stable, relatively low real estate tax rate for the past decade while continuing to provide top notch services to its residents. Utilizing the benefits of C/I, an increase in C/I land uses would offer the County an even greater ability to provide services or cover the increasing costs of services. Target: Plan for C11 to Represent 25 Percent of Real Estate Assessments Based on the 2020 tax revenues, 20 percent of the total real estate property assessments came from C/I uses and accounted for almost half of the total County revenue, while accounting for less than 4 percent of the total land area in the County. While land values will certainly fluctuate with the ebb and flow of the economy, C/I values will continue to be THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT 27 APPENDIX II — BACKGROUND ANALYSIS AND SUPPORTING STUDIES significant contributors to the county's tax base and more importantly, C/I tax contributions will offset the residential land use cost for services. The Comprehensive Plan strives to achieve a balance of land uses to achieve the target policy of ensuring that 25 percent of the projected assessments will be from C/I land uses. The Plan also incorporates opportunities for mixed use developments and single-family residential uses. The policy of directing residential growth into the UDA also promotes a more efficient use of land and community services, ultimately offering additional cost savings to the county. Opportunities for mixed use developments offer additional revenues to address the demands for services generated by the residential uses. These projects include an appropriate mix of commercial, office, and residential development. They provide an efficient development pattern that can foster economic development, provide diversity in land use, and reduce the number and the length of automobile trips. These mixed uses projects are encouraged in appropriate locations in the Comprehensive Plan. CONCLUSION The land use designations and policies contained within the Comprehensive Plan accommodate the goal of providing 25 percent C/I land uses to 75 percent Other land uses. Maintaining a healthy C/I ratio will help the County maintain its current tax rates while continuing to enhance the services provided the residents. To reinforce a sound policy basis that balances land use planning and fiscal policies, the ratio of 25/75 between C/I and other land uses in terms of available land areas and taxable value of the land uses shall be the established benchmark. This policy shall dictate that at least 25 percent of the taxable land value (land plus improvement value) in the County should contain C/I land uses, and conversely that no more than 75 percent of the taxable land area should be for uses other than C/I land. By achieving this policy goal, the County will ensure that taxable land values equate to the projected expenditures. THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - DRAFT Q