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Commission recommends rezoning for Lighthouse Learning Academy site in South Creek
Summary
The commission recommended rezoning 2.1 acres in South Creek from Light Industrial to Commerce Center to allow Lighthouse Learning Academy, a private K–8 school for neurodivergent students, subject to future site‑plan review; staff noted wetlands and a rear channel and recommended staggered drop‑off and parking will be resolved at site plan.
The Powhatan Planning Commission on Jan. 6 recommended approval of Case 25‑21 REZ to rezone a 2.1‑acre parcel in the South Creek area (tax map Parcel 42E‑1‑8) from Light Industrial (I‑1) to Commerce Center (CC) so Lighthouse Learning Academy can operate a private K–8 school serving neurodivergent students.
Sean (planning staff) said the applicant proposes a 12,000‑square‑foot building with the potential to add about 6,500 square feet later, and an expected initial enrollment of about 60 students rising eventually to around 90. Staff noted the site contains wetlands and an intermittent stream in the rear that will require buffers. The planning department recommended approval, finding the request consistent with the comprehensive plan and the area’s gateway business future‑land‑use designation.
Lane Hargroeder, civil engineer with MSA, explained the applicant plans staggered drop‑off windows to manage peak traffic—described as roughly 10 students arriving in 20–30 minute increments—and estimated about 30–40 parking spaces based on ordinance ratios. Commissioners asked whether a prior 200‑foot building setback from an earlier plat remained applicable; staff and the applicant said existing proffers supersede that earlier condition and that the project will maintain a 50‑foot buffer from the wetlands/natural channel in the rear.
Resident Carl Schwendeman urged the commission to require the developer to build a 5‑foot sidewalk along Carter Gallier Road now to avoid future retrofit costs; staff said sidewalk and access will be reviewed during site‑plan review.
A motion to recommend approval was made and seconded; roll call recorded ayes from Commissioners Hall, Bolling, Winnall and Hatcher, and the commission’s recommendation will be forwarded to the Board of Supervisors for final action on Jan. 26.
Next steps: if the Board approves the rezoning, the applicant must submit a detailed site plan, address wetlands/buffer requirements, and coordinate agency comments (fire, health, VDOT) to finalize parking, access and emergency access routes.
