UDC Recommends Approval of Lumpkins Jail Archaeological Pavilion Design

The committee recommended approval of the architectural design for the archaeological pavilion that will provide public access and interpretation for the Lumpkins Jail site at 1500 East Franklin (UDC‑2026‑08). Jeanne Welber of the City’s General Services (Speaker 12) described the project’s long history of archaeological investigation and noted the Commonwealth has contributed substantial funding to date.

Welber said the site team has worked with federal and state partners, completed extensive test pits and geophysical locating, and is designing the pavilion to protect in‑situ archaeological deposits. "Commonwealth of Virginia is a partner. They've given us about $13,500,000 towards this," she said. Architects from Baskerville (Speaker 6) explained that FEMA’s updated floodway mapping required a revised above‑grade form and flood‑resistant detailing; the design team emphasized interpretive masonry, perforated brickwork and internal displays to tell first‑person accounts tied to the site.

Committee members praised the project’s storytelling and material choices, asked for additional lighting and site‑section views for Planning Commission, and voted to recommend approval to Planning Commission. Staff noted that site plans, hardscape and some floodplain details would return in later site‑plan submissions.