City staff told Charlottesville City Council on Sept. 15 that three parcels remain to complete right‑of‑way and permanent easements for the East High Streetscape project and recommended council proceed with eminent domain procedures if needed to secure acquisition.

Why it matters: The East High Streetscape project requires multiple acquisitions and easements to complete public improvements. Lee Cooper, project manager in Capital Development, reported the city has obtained 23 of 26 parcels and that two parcels are owned by East Jefferson Assembly, LLC and one is owned (under several related entity names) by MWPC Properties LLC/IRR Properties LLC. Cooper said negotiations had been long and that the city recommended proceeding with the statutory eminent‑domain process to secure needed rights.

Special exception for 1114 East High Street: The Planning Department presented a related but separate matter: a special‑exception permit amendment for 1114 East High Street (zoned CX‑5). Planner Ben Koger described a request to allow a one‑story workshop structure in the rear of the site and to reduce transition‑screening and build‑to requirements because of existing site constraints and the existing streetscape character. Staff and the Planning Commission recommended approval subject to conditions: limit the studio/workshop height (14 feet, 5 inches), maintain or replace a minimum six‑foot fence between the workshop and adjoining residential property, and provide two large trees on the subject property (placement not required between the workshop and the property line).

Council action and process notes: Council heard the public hearing for the eminent domain item and a motion to proceed with acquisition was moved and seconded. For the 1114 East High special‑exception amendment the council voted to approve the resolution and conditions; the vote was recorded as 5‑0 in favor.

Next steps: Staff will proceed with acquisition negotiations and, if necessary, the eminent‑domain process for the East High Streetscape parcels; for 1114 East High, staff will proceed with development‑plan completion consistent with the approved special‑exception conditions.

Ending: City staff said they would coordinate needed easement documents and follow the legal process for right‑of‑way acquisition, and planning staff will finalize development review materials consistent with the council motion.