James River Association outlines "Greening the Library" plan for Amherst Public Library

Rob Campbell, a representative of the James River Association, presented a proposed "Greening the Library" plan for the Amherst County Public Library and the Madison Heights branch, arguing that better site landscaping can slow and capture runoff before it reaches Rutledge Creek and the James River watershed.

"We're planning on funding all of this through this grant process," Campbell said, saying the project has completed an initial Chesapeake Bay Trust planning grant and that the team has applied for a second round to produce a bid-ready design. He described proposed measures including grassy swales to capture hillside runoff, small check dams, rain gardens, pollinator plantings, additional shade trees, permeable pavers for expanded parking, and a one-lane book drop-off to reduce parking conflict.

Campbell noted maintenance was a key design consideration: many features were planned so existing crews could mow around vegetated swales and avoid creating additional burdens for town staff. He also said the design includes an optional parking extension that would create an additional entrance onto Main Street and would require coordination with VDOT on sightlines.

After the presentation the mayor asked council for informal consensus; the council indicated support by voice without taking a formal vote. Campbell asked only for the council's "blessing and continued support" and for staff cooperation as the project pursues further grant rounds and, if funded, moves toward implementation.