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DRC approves exceptions for two Bridal Beginnings Pre-K site plans, commission receives report
Summary
The Development Review Committee approved exceptions to sidewalk/bike-lane requirements for two Bridal Beginnings Pre-K site plans (Clara Byrd Baker and Norge elementary sites). Staff had recommended denying the exceptions under Sec. 20-435 of the zoning ordinance; DRC voted 3–1 for one site and 4–0 for the other.
The Planning Commission received a report on Oct. 23 Development Review Committee action regarding two appeals filed by Bridal Beginnings concerning site-plan requirements for Pre-K centers at Clara Byrd Baker and Norge elementary schools.
According to Commissioner Rogers’ report to the commission, Williamsburg-James City County Public Schools submitted site plans for 42,000-square-foot pre-K centers at each location. The applicant requested modifications to pedestrian and bicycle accommodation requirements in the zoning ordinance (Sec. 20-435), arguing a single multi-use path would be safer for children and allow preservation of more trees while the regional bikeways plan may take decades to complete. Staff recommended upholding the Planning Director’s determination that the projects did not meet exception criteria.
After discussion, the DRC approved an exception for the Clara Byrd Baker application on a 3–1 vote and approved an exception for the Norge application on a 4–0 vote. The DRC noted concerns about topographical exemptions, safety arguments, and impacts to trees but ultimately approved exceptions that would allow existing sidewalks to remain and defer construction of additional bicycle accommodations.
The report was provided to the commission as part of the DRC update; the items were placed on the consent agenda and approved by the Planning Commission.
