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Board approves AgeWise Virginia rezoning for 55+ housing after debate on traffic and affordability
Summary
After extended public comment and debate about traffic, enforceability of age restrictions and whether units will be affordable, the board rezoned a Harrison Road site to allow up to 80 age‑restricted (55+) multifamily units; vote was 5–2. Proffers include cash contributions and transportation improvements.
The Spotsylvania County Board of Supervisors approved R24-0002, rezoning about 5.4 acres along Harrison Road to planned development housing to allow up to 80 age‑restricted multifamily units aimed at seniors 55 and older.
Planning staff said the proposal uses a previously approved building footprint and would provide ditches, a six‑foot sidewalk on the north side of Harrison Road, and restriping to provide a left‑turn lane. The applicant proffered cash contributions totaling $43,708.80 at full buildout and committed to age‑restricted covenants. Staff recommended approval and noted the project maintains many features of earlier special‑use approvals but requires rezoning because of how county zoning defines assisted‑living versus independent‑living facilities.
Public comments were split. Erica Dutcher of Central Virginia Housing, an affordable‑housing nonprofit, urged support and said regional housing providers are seeing significant senior housing demand. Nearby resident Robin Allen warned that the site is near three schools and an intersection with frequent collisions, saying an 80‑unit apartment could add vehicle traffic at peak times.
Supervisor Hayes and others emphasized the county’s need for senior housing and the project’s potential to provide lower‑cost options if a tax‑credit developer participates; however, affordability is not mandated in the proffers. Ms. Baxter, the applicant, said she has letters of intent from affordable‑housing developers but that those commitments are contingent on final approvals.
Supervisors voted 5–2 to approve the rezoning; Supervisors Ekabowski and Marshall voted no. The approval includes the proffers presented to the board, including the 100% 55+ age restriction and cash contributions for public-safety and parks.
