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Planning commission recommends zoning text amendment to preserve future road right-of-way, 7-0
Summary
The commission voted 7-0 to recommend City Council adopt a zoning text amendment updating special building setbacks on key corridors to reserve right-of-way for future road widening and pedestrian/bicycle infrastructure, adding several roadway segments and removing a CSX fixed-guideway reservation.
The Newport News Planning Commission unanimously recommended that City Council adopt a zoning text amendment to update how the city reserves building setbacks along certain major roads to protect space for future right-of-way improvements.
Planning staff said the amendment would revise Article 28, Section 45-2808 of the zoning ordinance to ensure appropriate setbacks on arterials and collector streets to accommodate road widening, sidewalks, bike lanes, lighting and other infrastructure. The amendment removes a CSX corridor reservation tied to a fixed-guideway transit project the city no longer considers feasible and adds new roadway segments — including portions of Chestnut Avenue and Denbigh Boulevard — for future right-of-way reservation.
Why it matters: The change updates the municipal code to reflect current transportation priorities and planned improvements so property owners and developers along affected corridors understand future right-of-way expectations.
Process and vote: The Regulations Committee reviewed and recommended approval of the amendment on March 19. Planner Nioka Hall presented the item and answered commissioner questions. Chairperson Jefferson Taylor moved to recommend the zoning text amendment ZT202501; the motion was seconded and passed on a 7-0 roll call. The amendment will go to City Council for a public hearing and final vote.
