Commission approves Stillwater mixed‑use rezoning 8–1 after debate over schools and proffers

The Chesapeake Planning Commission approved a conditional rezoning for the Stillwater development at 1733–1737 Battlefield Boulevard South on March 11, voting 8–1 in favor of staff‑recommended proffers.

Project representatives described Stillwater as a mixed‑use neighborhood with a central multi‑generational park, a commercial entrance that would include a food truck park and a flexible indoor venue, and a mix of housing types including brownstones, row homes, cottages and executive single‑family units. Agent Sam Borocchi told commissioners the design focused on walkability and community gathering spaces.

Supporters said the applicant proffered to delay the issuance of certificates of occupancy until a scheduled addition to Southeastern Elementary is completed, a measure intended to mitigate immediate school capacity impacts. James Leftwich, speaking for the applicant, said the school addition will bring at least 200 new seats and that the applicant has proffered no COs until the addition is online.

Opponents and several residents urged delay, citing school overcrowding, fragmented sidewalks and current traffic congestion along Battlefield Boulevard. Jonathan Boring told the commission that Hickory Middle School was operating above capacity and that nearby elementary capacity projections showed the addition might still leave the school operating over capacity.

Commissioners questioned traffic and school capacity analyses. Planning staff and the applicant explained that the traffic study included existing and approved development and that the incremental traffic from Stillwater did not change the modeled level‑of‑service grade at the analyzed signalized intersection. Commissioners also noted that school attendance and capacity planning fall under the school board’s authority and that the proffers were intended to manage timing of occupancy.

After deliberation, Commissioner Gilman moved to approve the rezoning with the proffers as listed in the staff report; the motion passed 8–1. The planning department noted the application will be heard by City Council on March 17, 2026 as advertised for concurrent review.