STAFFORD — A rezoning that passed the Stafford County Board of Supervisors this week clears the way for new homes next to the county’s airport.
Officials approved a rezoning for 170 new homes on about 100 acres of agricultural land off Centreport Parkway, north of the intersection of Mountian View Road. Now called Sycamore Grove, the development dates back to 2013 when it was called Okenwold Farm.
Officials back then denied developer IVI Strategies, which also developed Caton’s Ridge in Prince William County, a rezoning as the company vied to build 105 homes on all 213 acres of property in the same area. Now, the new plan includes a mix of 170 homes and 150,000 square feet of commercial space.
The Stafford Planning Commission denied approval for Sycamore Grove before it the rezoning application went to the Board of Supervisors. The developer by-right had the option of developing up to 105 homes on the property with or without county approval.
“We’re going to have 105 homes on the property whether we like it or not,” said Hartwood District Supervisor Gary Snellings, who supported the rezoning.
The new development comes with $3 million in proffers from the developer to the county, formulated under the “old” proffer, higher-dollar system before the General Assembly placed restrictions on the amount localities can charge developers.
Not only does the property lie in a dam break inundation zone and would be flooded if any one of three dams fails — two on Potomac Creek and one on Curtis Lake — but the new homes lie within the flight path of corporate jets and small airplanes bound for Stafford Regional Airport.
“Will [the developer] be able to assure these families that they would be in no danger of having a plane, or two, or more fall or crash into their homes,” asked Yolanda Roussell, of Aquia Harbour, who also seeks the Aquia District Supervisors seat in an upcoming November election.
“Obviously we cannot assure that for the residents of this new neighborhood, but it’s not the planes most will be complaining about; It’s the Blackhawk helicopters that will be flying over their homes at 2 am. that aren’t supposed to be there,” said Garrisonville District Supervisor Laura Sellers.
When county officials were reviewing the Okenwold Farm application in 2013, officials voted to amend zoning rules that would have forced the developer to build only 77 homes. The developer filed a lawsuit which is still ongoing, despite the Board of Supervisors vote to approve the developer’s request for rezoning.
A lawyer for the developer told Potomac Local on Wednesday that his client and the county are close to a resolution in the suit, but declined to provide details.
Recent Stories
The statues were constant reminders of our past — a reminder not to repeat the same mistakes again.
The Prince William County Criminal Justice Academy’s Basic Recruit Session #56 Graduation was marked by personal connections and unwavering dedication to public service.
With the completion of the major construction sites at Riverfront Park and William Square, final parking signage is planned to be installed by the City of Fredericksburg in these two areas by the end of May 2024.
In support of national Take Your Child to Work Day, children aged 17 and younger can ride any OmniRide bus for free on Thursday, April 25.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges? Do stress and anxiety seem to dominate your thoughts? At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand that navigating mental health can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone.
Our team of compassionate therapists is here to guide you on your journey toward inner peace and emotional well-being. With a client-centered approach, we tailor our therapy sessions to meet your unique needs and goals. Whether you’re struggling with depression, coping with trauma, or simply seeking personal growth, we provide a safe and supportive space for healing and growth.
Embark on a path of self-discovery with our comprehensive range of therapy services, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness practices, and holistic approaches. Our experienced therapists are dedicated to helping you cultivate resilience, develop coping skills, and foster a greater sense of self-awareness.
Are you facing life’s challenges, feeling overwhelmed, or seeking personal growth? Embrace the path to emotional well-being with our expert psychotherapy services!
Why Choose Us?
Our team of compassionate and experienced psychotherapists is here to guide you on your journey to inner peace, self-discovery, and positive change. We provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.
Free Irish Music Concert
Welcoming Spring with music from the Emerald Isle, the New Dominion Choraliers offer a FREE concert on Saturday, April 27 at 7:30 p.m. at the First United Presbyterian Church of Dale City.
Joined by Legacy Brass and members of Old
Spring Ceili: An Irish Music Festival
The New Dominion Choraliers of Prince William County and McGrath Morgan Academy of Irish Dance invite you to join them at our Ceili, a grand celebration of Irish music and dance.
A gathering of performance groups throughout Prince William County
