Cornerstone Village at Burkemore applicants outline 42–147 unit rezoning range; presenters point to road extension and site constraints

JT Newberry, a county presenter, introduced a Cornerstone Village at Burkemore community meeting and walked attendees through site maps and how a planned Burke Mar Drive extension and roundabout will affect the parcel. Newberry said the application proposes rezoning the site from rural to Planned Residential Development and that any future public hearings — planning commission and Board of Supervisors — would follow staff review.

Chuck Rapp of Collins Engineering described the parcel as about 5.6 acres today, with roughly one acre expected to be taken by the Burke Mar extension and associated roundabout, leaving a net developable footprint of about 4.2–4.5 acres. He said the site’s topography, roundabout proximity and limited pad area make large industrial uses impractical and that residential development better aligns with the county’s regional‑center vision under the Places 29/AC44 guidance.

The applicant’s application plan shows a dwelling range of 42 to 147 units (the higher end follows comp‑plan guidance for urban density up to 34 units per acre). Rapp told the committee the PRD district requires a minimum of 25% open space and said the team proposes a 10‑foot perimeter buffer on the southern edge of the site and to retain or replant vegetation disturbed by the roundabout work. He also said the application includes a commitment to the county’s affordable‑housing policy: “This project does have a commitment of 20% affordable units per the county’s policy.”

Developer representatives from OmniPartners told the committee the preferred product is for‑sale townhomes, but that market and subsidy realities could require alternative delivery such as rental units or a mixed product. Trent Lawhorn said Omni has experience building affordable projects with nonprofit partners and agreed subsidy is typically required to achieve deeper affordability.

Access and traffic were central questions. Presenters explained that the future Burke Mar Drive extension will provide primary access, but that proximity to roundabouts and grade changes limit turning movements; they noted VDOT traffic thresholds will determine whether additional entrances or emergency access are required as the proposed number of units is refined.

What’s next: the application materials and staff review comments will guide any scheduling of public hearings. No formal approvals or votes occurred at the community meeting.