Board rezones Attain on 5th for Phase 2 infill, approves slope reclassification and exceptions

After a public hearing the Albemarle County Board of Supervisors approved the rezoning and related special exceptions for Attain on 5th Phase 2, allowing an additional 165 units on the existing site. Planning Manager Rebecca Ragsdale summarized the proposal and staff findings: the project increases density to roughly 21 dwelling units per acre, upgrades on‑site and frontage pedestrian facilities including a shared‑use path and bus‑stop improvements, and delivers 62 affordable units across both phases when paired with the ARHIP commitment.

Applicant counsel Valerie Long and the project team described site constraints and commitments. Long said the site contains underused student‑parking areas that will be repurposed for infill buildings and enhanced connectivity. The planning staff and ARB found that the slopes targeted for reclassification are man‑made, not natural features, and recommended rezoning the specific slope areas from "preserved" to "managed" to permit grading needed for the infill. The board approved both zoning map amendments and both special exceptions (step‑back waiver and a 20% parking reduction) by roll call votes; supervisors stressed conditions would be attached in site‑plan review to ensure sidewalk and stormwater upgrades, and a performance agreement will define affordability obligations.

Clint Schietler, civil engineer for the project, said existing stormwater infrastructure can be used with modest outfall adjustments; staff noted a traffic study was prepared and did not require off‑site roadway improvements. The approvals carry standard conditions tied to site‑plan review, pedestrian improvements and monitoring.