Planning Team Outlines Land Use Changes Impacting Fort Lee and Surrounding Areas

During a recent work session on the Comprehensive Plan for Prince George County, officials discussed critical updates that could shape the community's future, particularly regarding land use around Fort Lee. The meeting highlighted the importance of engaging with local residents and stakeholders as the county prepares for potential code changes that will follow the plan's approval.

One of the key topics was the need for clear guidance on future land use surrounding Fort Lee. Planning staff collaborated with Fort Lee's planners to create a detailed map outlining areas that may experience external impacts from military training activities. This proactive approach aims to address the dual impacts between the fort and the surrounding county, ensuring that both entities can coexist effectively.

The map identifies two distinct protection areas around Fort Lee: a primary protection area, marked in red, which is expected to face significant impacts from noise, smoke, and airspace concerns, and a secondary protection area that encompasses most of the fort's perimeter. This secondary area is particularly sensitive to development that could introduce light pollution or tall structures, which may interfere with the fort's operations.

Officials emphasized the importance of community input in the upcoming code amendment process. They reassured residents that there will be opportunities for public meetings to discuss these changes, allowing for a collaborative approach to planning. The Comprehensive Plan serves as a roadmap, guiding future decisions while the specifics will be detailed in the zoning codes.

As Prince George County moves forward with these discussions, the focus remains on balancing development with the needs of the military base and the surrounding community, ensuring that all voices are heard in shaping the county's future.