Albemarle planning commission reviews parks chapter of AC 44 as residents press for equestrian trails at Biscuit Run

Albemarle County planners presented the draft Parks, Recreation and Open Space chapter of the AC 44 comprehensive plan at the Feb. 25 Planning Commission work session, asking commissioners to weigh priorities including accelerated development of urban parks and greenways, increased county ownership of parkland, and environmental resilience measures.

The presentation, led by Tori Kanalopoulos, principal planner on the county's long-range team, and Tim Padalino, chief of parks planning, outlined seven objectives for the chapter: plan equitably for parks needs; increase county ownership of parks and greenways; accelerate urban parks in development areas; increase access and universal design; boost environmental resilience; expand trail networks (including blueways); and expand recreation programs and facilities.

Why it matters: The chapter will guide parks investments under AC 44 — the county's multi-year comprehensive plan — and help direct future master planning and capital funding. Padalino told the commission the county has seen sharp rises in park use since 2019 and must plan for both access and stewardship: “We had over 600,000 more visitors in 2023 than we did in 2019. That's over a 40% increase,” he said.

Planners emphasized several near-term actions: pursue a countywide parks and recreation master plan and needs assessment; prioritize pocket parks and greenways in development areas; identify new funding mechanisms; and strengthen staffing and maintenance capacity if the county acquires more parkland. Kanalopoulos said the chapter team already is recommending more emphasis on environmental sustainability, including invasive species…