Planning commission recommends special-exception permit for Lee Highway storage facility with lighting and road‑maintenance conditions

The Washington County Planning Commission on a unanimous vote recommended approval of a special‑exception permit for a proposed self‑storage development on about 3.56 acres at the intersection of Lee Highway (US Route 11) and Pilgrim Lane.

The developer proposes four buildings — two smaller units (one listed as 150 by 30, two at about 180 by 32) and a larger building (about 80 by 200) — as an unmanned, 24/7 facility. Staff noted the project will require an approved stormwater plan and a VDOT commercial entrance permit before building permits can be issued. The applicant estimated a traffic increase of roughly five cars per day and said the facility does not require water service; power will be taken from the Lee Highway side.

The commission’s recommendation includes two conditions: implementation of downcast lighting across the facility to limit light spill onto neighboring homes, and that the developer either maintain the portion of Pilgrim Lane that serves the site or enter a cost‑sharing agreement with adjacent landowners to ensure maintenance obligations are met. A commission member moved the conditions and the body approved the motion unanimously.

Several neighbors spoke during the public hearing. Resident Larry Klein, who identified himself as living at 16475 Pilgrim Lane, said Pilgrim Lane is a private road with a 50‑foot right‑of‑way maintained by residents and raised concerns about grading, deeded utility easements and potential impacts on water meters and drive grades. "I am concerned about the lighting...hopefully it's downcast where it won't travel beyond the property line," Klein said, and he asked for more detailed construction plans showing exact grades and excavations.

Applicant Seth Ratliff told the commission the stormwater retention area shown in the packet is conceptual and that final design will be reviewed and approved by county staff. "The only areas that we anticipate any disturbance within the right of way are the connections to Pilgrim Lane, and they meet the grade currently. Pilgrim Lane itself will not be altered in any way," Ratliff said, adding that entrances will be VDOT‑approved low‑volume commercial accesses and that the project will avoid covering or grading over existing water meters.

Ratliff also confirmed planned on‑site security measures would include chain‑link fencing and downcast lighting; access would be by code. Cameras are possible but not yet finalized. The applicant said he would discuss road‑maintenance cost sharing with his client.

Next steps: the commission’s recommendation moves to the Board of Supervisors; the chair told the applicant the board meets the second Tuesday in September at 6:30 p.m. for final consideration.

Details from the meeting packet: approximate site area 3.56 acres; building footprint dimensions as discussed in the packet; project described as unmanned 24/7; VDOT commercial entrance and approved stormwater plan required prior to building permits.