Chesapeake council approves $225,000 parkland purchase to protect Dismal Swamp Canal Trail

Chesapeake City Council voted unanimously to appropriate $225,000 and complete a negotiated purchase of two undeveloped parcels on George Washington Highway South, fronting the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail, for conservation and open-space purposes.

City Manager Price presented the request, saying the funds would move into the parkland acquisition capital project to secure the parcels. Council approved the appropriation and the related purchase resolution in consecutive 9-0 votes.

Two residents who addressed the council urged the purchase. Linda Tandel, who said she lives at 1045 West Road and recounted family ties to the parcel, told the council the acquisition would ensure the land “will remain intact” and not be bulldozed for development. Jeff Staples, speaking for Save the Dismal, said the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail is a regional asset and urged the city to look for additional properties to acquire for trail protection.

Council members asked staff where citizens could view a list of properties the city has purchased; City Manager Price said he would provide that information. Councilmember remarks also included a request to continue monitoring other available parcels along the trail.

The purchase agreement authorizes the city manager to execute agreements with Swain W. Eller and Walter B. Tyndall to acquire about five acres for a negotiated price of $225,000. The council approved the appropriation and the purchase resolution by unanimous votes.

Next steps include staff returning information to council about where residents can view past and planned parkland acquisitions and continuing outreach about potential future purchases along the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail.