Comprehensive Plan Update

October 2019 Newsletter

jamescitycountyva.gov/engage2045

James City County is launching an ambitious effort to explore and affirm
the vision for our community for the next 25 years.

Engage 2045: Share your ideas, shape our community

What is the Comprehensive Plan?

Have you ever wondered why certain areas are developed, while others are not? How we still have rural landscapes amidst pressures for growth? The answer is careful community planning. The Comprehensive Plan is the County’s guide for future growth and change. Its goals, strategies and actions outline tangible steps to implement the vision for all aspects of the community.

Why do we do it?

The Code of Virginia requires that all localities have comprehensive plans and review them every five years to address changing circumstances and conditions in growth, public opinion and other important issues. In many instances, what were once just ideas in previous Comprehensive Plan updates are now ongoing policies and initiatives. Examples include buffer protections and design features through the creation of Community Character Corridors and Areas; new County ordinances to allow small-scale mixed use developments; and planning and funding strategies for needed transportation improvements.

Annual progress on the currently adopted 2015 Comprehensive Plan, Toward 2035: Leading the Way may be found in the Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals Annual Report.

Introducing the Community Participation Team

Because the Comprehensive Plan is the guiding document on how the community intends to develop, it is important that citizens share their views. The Board of Supervisors recently appointed a group of citizens to serve on the Community Participation Team (CPT). The team is busy planning multiple community engagement events for the fall and beyond to seek your input on the Comprehensive Plan update. All opinions and ideas are welcome and will be considered throughout the process. Visit the CPT web page for more information, or invite a CPT member to speak at your next event!

Get involved!

Save the Date & Join Us

Summit on the Future

Monday, Nov. 16 from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

At Berkeley Middle School, James River Elementary School, Jamestown High School, Lois Hornsby Middle School, Toano Middle School, James City County Government Center Board Room (Building F).

The first major public engagement opportunity is the Summit on the Future on Monday, Nov. 18. Citizens will be asked to provide input on the County’s vision and goals and to share their priorities and preferences. The meeting will be simulcast to multiple locations throughout the County hosted by Board of Supervisors members and will use live polling. Citizens at home may watch a live broadcast on Channel 48 and participate in real-time polling and an online questionnaire.

Tell a neighbor and bring a friend! All ages are welcome, and there will be door prizes and light refreshments. Help shape our community by sharing your ideas!

Contact us

Contact the Planning Division at 757-253-6685 or planning@jamescitycountyva.gov. For upcoming Meetings & Events visit the website. Like and Follow us on Social Media for updates & event information.