HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-12 CommentsBURNT FACTORY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
BUILDING EXPANSION
APPLICATION FOR VARIANCE
The purpose of this document is to show detailed justifications for Burnt Factory
United Methodist Church (BFUMC) in asking for a variance of the front and side yard
setbacks required in the Frederick County, VA Zoning Ordinance. BFUMC would like to
expand the sanctuary and fellowship hall of the church, due to an overwhelming increase
in regular attendance of regular worship, Sunday school, and special events. The need is
to increase the building SF of the sanctuary, fellowship hall, and the basement areas
underneath these areas that are currently used for classrooms, offices, storage, bathrooms,
and a nursery. The following report will illustrate the specific reasons that expanding the
church in any other direction expect towards the existing road would not be feasible.
The three crosses on Tire hill located at Burnt Factory unitea Memodist Church
East of the Existing Church
This area is made up of the existing parking lot and cemetery. The cemetery cannot be
moved and any building expansion in the existing parking lot would encroach on parking
that is currently necessary for the church uses.
Photo #1 Existing Cemetery
Photo #2 Existing East Parking Lot
North of the Existing Church
This area is made up of the existing parking lot and septic system. Expanding in this
direction would require moving the septic system, which would incur great costs to the
church. Also, expanding into the parking lot would encroach on parking that is necessary
for the church uses. Also, this expansion would not allow the church to add on to the
Sanctuary, which is necessary for any expansion.
Photo #3 Existing Septic System
b.
Photo #4 Existing North Parking Lot
South of the Existing Church
This area is made up of the existing well, and the existing sanctuary is approximately 26'
from the property line. Expanding in this direction would require moving the well and
drilling a new one, which would incur great costs to the church. Also, expanding the
sanctuary in this direction would require a waiver also, and would not gain the church the
needed SF of sanctuary space.
Photo #5 Existing Well
Photo #6 Existing South Property Line
West of the Existiniz Church
This area is where the church would like to expand. Currently this area is made up of the
existing stairs and walkways from the church building, an existing overhead electric line,
and the church sign. The existing sanctuary is 44' from the property line along existing
Jordan Springs Road Route 664. The existing fellowship hall is 55' from this property
line. Expanding in this direction will not negatively impact any adjacent owners or have
an adverse impact on the church site.
Photo #7 Front of the Church
Photo #8 Front Yard of the Church