City of Manassas, Virginia Planning Commission Meeting ... · REZ #2020-01, REZ #2020-02, and REZ...

Planning Commiss ionPlanning Commiss ion MeetingNovember 13, 2019Page | 1

City of Manassas, VirginiaPlanning Commission Meeting

AGENDA

Planning Commission Meeting9027 Center Street

Manassas, VA 20110City Hall Council Chambers - 1st Floor

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance - 7:00 p.m.

Roll Call and Determination of a Quorum

1. Approval of the Minutes

1.1 Draft Meeting Minutes - October 2, 2019 Regular Meeting and September 25,2019 Work SessionMinutes - October 2, 2019Work Session Action Agenda - September 25, 2019

2. Public Hearings

The Draft Comprehensive Plan was released for public review on October 9, 2019. The draftis available at www.manassascity.org/planmanassas and in the Community Developmentoffice at 9027 Center Street, Room 202, Manassas, Virginia 20110.

2.1 CPA #2018-2000 - Manassas 2040 Comprehensive Plan: Staff Presentation andPublic Hearing(Staff: Kelly Davis, AICP, Senior Planner)CPA #2018-2000 Staff MemorandumAttachment A. Comment TrackingLink to Comprehensive Plan

Adjournment

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https://legistarweb-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/attachment/pdf/468648/100219_Draft.pdf

https://legistarweb-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/attachment/pdf/468655/COMP_ACTION_Agenda_092519.pdf

https://legistarweb-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/attachment/pdf/471799/CPA__2018-2000_Staff_Memorandum.pdf

https://legistarweb-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/attachment/pdf/468999/2040_Comp_Plan_Comment_Tracking_-_100919.pdf

https://legistarweb-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/attachment/pdf/469017/Comp_Plan_Link.pdf

DRAFT

MINUTESCity of Manassas

Planning CommissionPublic Hearing Meeting

October 2, 2019 – 7:00 p.m.

Members Present: Harry Clark – ChairmanRussell HarrisonRobert SchilppBill Thompson (arrived at 7:12pm)Elaine TrautweinMartha Wilson

Members Absent: Ken Johnson – Vice Chairman

Staff: Matthew Arcieri – Planning & Zoning ManagerKelly Davis – Senior PlannerChristen Miller – Boards and Commissions Clerk

CALL TO ORDERThe Chairman called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

DETERMINATION OF A QUORUMClerk took the roll, and a quorum was determined.

Chairman Clark welcomed Cub Pack 1188 from All Saints Church who attended the meeting to learn about the Planning Commission and how the city operates. Chairman also welcomed thenew clerk, Christen Miller.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES – August 7, 2019Mr. Schilpp motioned to approve the minutes as submitted. Mr. Harrison seconded the motion. The MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY VOICE VOTE.

COMMITTEE REPORTSNo committee reports were presented.

CITIZENS’ COMMENT TIME (other than agenda items)No citizens came forward to speak.

NEW BUSINESS

The Chairman stated that the affidavit before him was signed by an authorized agent of the Prince William Times Newspaper, and the advertisement for the public hearing listed on tonight’s agenda was duly published in the newspaper in accordance with the law.

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Planning Commission Minutes – October 2, 2019 DRAFT - Page 2

REZ #2020-01, REZ #2020-02, and REZ #2020-03 – City Initiated Rezonings

Mr. Arcieri provided a consolidated presentation on three (3) city-initiated rezoning requests. Mr. Arcieri reminded the Commission that this process is a follow up to the adoption of the 2016zoning ordinance update. For certain properties where the revised zoning district is no longer compatible with the existing use or long-range plans, city staff will work with the property owners to initiate the requests for review by the Planning Commission and City Council.

REZ #2020-01, Beauregard Square Shopping Center, 8951 Center Street

Mr. Arcieri provided an overview of the request to consider a city-initiated proffer amendment to repeal the proffers approved as part of Rezoning #1987-03 that requires no less than 25% of the usable space be utilized for office activities.

The proposed proffer amendment would eliminate this restriction and allow the property to fully utilize the list of by-right uses in the B-3 zoning district as revised through the comprehensive zoning update in 2015. The property is located in the Historic Overlay District and any exterior changes would remain subject to Architectural Review Board approval.

Staff finds that the B-3 zoning district, as revised through the comprehensive zoning update, is an appropriate zoning district for the existing commercial shopping center. The existing proffers are no longer required to mitigate land use impacts and are inconsistent with the sector plan’s neighborhood retail designation.

REZ #2020-02, Godwin Business Park, 9813, 9815, 9817 and 9819 Godwin Drive and 10498 Colonel Court

Mr. Arcieri provided an overview of the request to consider a city-initiated rezoning of Godwin Business Park from I-2, Heavy Industrial and AOD, Airport Impact Overlay District, to I-1, Light Industrial and AOD.

Staff finds that the I-1 zoning district, as revised through the comprehensive zoning update, is a more appropriate zoning district for the existing business park and is compatible with the Comprehensive Plan and adjacent land uses.

REZ #2020-03, Commerce Corner, 9037, 9041, 9043, 9045, 9047, 9049, 9051, 9053, 9055, 9057, 9059, 9061, 9063, 9065, 9067, 9069, 9071, 9073, 9075, 9077, 9079, 9081, 9083, 9085, 9087, and 9089 Liberia Avenue

Mr. Arcieri provided an overview of the request to consider a city-initiated rezoning of Commerce Corner business park from I-2, Heavy Industrial to B-4, General Commercial.

Staff finds that the B-4 zoning district, as revised through the comprehensive zoning update, is a more appropriate zoning district for the existing business park and is compatible with the Comprehensive Plan and adjacent land uses.

Staff recommends approval of all three rezonings REZ #2020-01, REZ #2020-02, and REZ #2020-03. 3


Planning Commission DiscussionCommissioner Trautwein asked why Carpet Royal and Rug is not included in the Commerce Corner rezoning.

Mr. Arcieri stated that Carpet Royal and Rug is a separately owned parcel and did not request to be included and there has been no contact with that property. Mr. Arcieri confirmed Carpet Royaland Rug will remain zoned I-2, Heavy Industrial. Planning and Economic Development staff will continue to work with interested property owners on City-initiated map updates.

Chairman Clark stated that they will take all three zoning as a single motion.

Citizens’ Comment TimeWilliam Pfister, on behalf of the Reformed Presbyterian Church, asked if the rezoning will affect the current agreement that the church congregation may use the Beauregard Square Shopping Center parking lot on Sundays.

Chairman Clark stated that the parking agreement is up to the property owner and the rezoning will have no impact.

Ms. Wilson motioned to close the public hearing. Mr. Harrison seconded the motion.

Roll Call by Clerk:

The MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.

Mr. Schilpp motioned to recommend approval of all three rezoning cases REZ #2020-01, REZ #2020-02, and REZ #2020-03. Ms. Trautwein seconded the motion.

Roll Call by Clerk:


Ms. Wilson YMr. Harrison YMr. Schilpp YMr. Thompson YMs. Trautwein YChairman Clark Y

Mr. Schilpp YMs. Trautwein YChairman Clark YMr. Harrison YMs. Wilson YMr. Thompson Y

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ZTA #2020-01, 2019 Zoning Ordinance Annual Updates

Mr. Arcieri provided an overview of the proposed annual zoning ordinance updates. As a follow-up to the completion of the City’s comprehensive zoning ordinance update, staff recommends that the City annually review the ordinance to make technical corrections and updates and ensure that the code remains in compliance with current requirements of state and federal laws and regulations. Following Planning Commission initiation in August 2019, staff and the City Attorney have prepared draft ordinance revisions for review as follows:

Article 2: The definition of Home Business and Home Occupation are proposed to be revised to permit limited customer activity as part of a home occupation (See Article 3 below). The definition of Kennel is proposed to be revised to include the sale of dogs and cats. The definition of Oversized Vehicles is proposed to be amended to prohibit the storage of plows in residential districts.

Article 3: Sec. 130-96, the performance standards for home occupations, is proposed to be amended to permit a maximum of five customers to come to the dwelling unit on an appointment only basis with restrictions on hours of operation and requirements for additional on-site parking. The performance standards for home occupations are also proposed to be amended to specifically prohibit home occupations for landscaping and contractor storage and commercial motor vehicle repair and sales.

Article 4: Sec. 130-123 is proposed to be amended to allow private community recreation uses to submit a special use permit application to modify their permitted signage with a comprehensive sign plan. Sec. 130-129 is proposed to be amended to allow signage on the inside of recreational and sports facility fencing without a permit. Sec. 130-130 is proposed to be amended to make technical corrections to the requirements for commercial flags and to require that commercial flags be removed when a business is closed.

Article 6: Sec. 130-204, Table 1 is proposed to be amended to revise minimum parking requirements for an airport or aviation facility use.

Article 8: Sec. 130-309(d), the maximum structure height in the I-A, Airport Zoning District, is proposed to be amended to replace the current 75-foot limit with the more restrictive requirements of the existing Airport Impact Overlay District. Sec. 130-405(b) is proposed to be amended to make a technical correction to the list of administrative review items in the Historic Overlay District.

Article 10: Sec. 130-602(a) is proposed to be amended to make a technical correction to criminal violations and penalties for consistent wording with the requirements of state code.

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Mr. Arcieri stated that the Zoning Ordinance Review Committee (ZORC) met on September 11, 2019, to review the draft changes. Members of the ZORC expressed concerns over the Kennel definition and asked staff to provide additional justification for the proposed change. Upon further review staff continues to recommend the definition as drafted. While there remains an exemption in the definition for animal adoptions, the primary purpose of the definition change will be to require that dog and cat sales adhere to existing zoning performance standards for the minimum care of these animals. These requirements already exist for boarding of dogs and cats and modifying the definition to include sales ensures that the City’s minimum animal welfare requirements for dogs and cats are applied uniformly to commercial uses operating in the City that are providing shelter these animals. Staff recommends approval of ZTA #2020-01.

Planning Commission DiscussionChairman Clark questioned the difference between a Home Business and Home Occupation. Mr. Arcieri stated a Home Occupation is a permit issued administratively over the counter and a much simpler process than the special use permit review required for Home Businesses.

Commissioner Trautwein had a question about the parking for a home business and the restrictions regarding the additional on-site parking space, asking if that means a space needs to be added or that we need to ensure that they have space already designated.

Mr. Arcieri confirmed City staff needs to verify and confirm the sufficient parking space is available before the permit is approved.

Citizens Discussion None

Ms. Wilson motioned to close the public hearing. Mr. Harrison seconded the motion.

Roll Call by Clerk:

Planning Commission Discussion The Commission discussed parking requirements for home occupations. Ms. Wilson stated

that the requirement for additional parking seems overly restrictive and would cause extra work for city staff. Mr. Harrison stated that the parking requirement might be a concern when in a townhome community, but not so much for a single family home. Chairman Clark stated that additional customers could create parking problems in areas with limited parking, and he is willing to have City staff verify adequate parking for home occupations.

Ms. Wilson YMr. Harrison YChairman Clark YMr. Schilpp YMr. Thompson YMs. Trautwein Y

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Ms. Wilson questioned enforcement of the parking requirements. Mr. Arcieri stated that it is an additional administrative requirement and will be enforced on a complaint basis when someone is in violation.

Mr. Harrison brought up concerns about the revised kennel definition. Mr. Arcieri statedthat the primary reason for the recommended definition is that these requirements already exist for boarding of dogs and cats and modifying the definition to include sales ensures that the City’s minimum animal welfare requirements for dogs and cats are applied uniformly to commercial uses operating in the City that are providing shelter these animals.

Ms. Trautwein motioned to remove the proposed parking restriction, in Section 130-96(b). Ms. Wilson seconded the motion.

Roll Call by Clerk:

The MOTION FAILED (TIE VOTE).

Mr. Schilpp motioned to recommend approval of ZTA # 2020-01. Mr. Harrison seconded the motion.

Roll Call by Clerk:


OTHER BUSINESS

Monthly UpdatesMr. Arcieri noted the Public Hearing for the Comprehensive Plan is November 13, 2019.

Mr. Arcieri invited the commission to participate in the Community Open House for Annaburg Manor on October 26, 2019.

Ms. Trautwein YMs. Wilson YChairman Clark NMr. Harrison YMr. Schilpp NMr. Thompson N

Mr. Schilpp YMr. Harrison YChairman Clark YMr. Thompson YMs. Trautwein YMs. Wilson Y

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Mr. Arcieri stated the final draft of Comprehensive Plan for review at the November 13th public hearing will be posted on www.manassascity.org/planmanassas by October 10th. He noted that there is a comment box for the public to submit if they are unable to attend the hearing.

Chairman Clark noted that he anticipates the Comprehensive Plan hearing will continue to the December meeting.

ADJOURNMENTMs. Wilson motioned to adjourn the meeting. The MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY VOICE VOTE and the meeting was adjourned at 7:44 p.m.

_________________________________________________ ________________Harry Clark, Chairman Date

_________________________________________________ ________________Christen Miller, Planning Commission Clerk Date

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PLANNING COMMISSION WORKSESSIONACTION AGENDA

September 25, 2019City Hall – 2nd Floor Conference Room

6:00 PM

In Attendance StaffHarry Clark Matt Arcieri, AICPRuss Harrison Kelly Davis, AICPBill Thompson Pat Thomas, AICPElaine TrautweinBob Schilpp

Meeting began at 6:00 pm.

1. Kelly Davis and Pat Thomas provided an overview of Comprehensive Plan Chapters 1 and 2. The Commission provided minor editorial comments on the chapters and affirmed the themes identified in Chapter 2. The Commission concurred with the recommendation to use the City’s strategic vision rather than creating a separate vision statement for the Comprehensive Plan.

2. The Commission reviewed and provided minor editorial comments on the formatteddraft Chapters 3 through 9. Specific comments of the Plan language included:

Chapter 3 - Clarifying the terminology for manufacturing vs. industrial uses throughout the plan.

Chapter 3 - Updating the Downtown opportunity sites map (Map 3-2) and removing site names.

Chapter 5 - Noting that more information about economic incentives can be found at choosemanassas.org

Chapter 6 - Clarify funding source for transportation projects listed in Table 6.1 is not fully-funded by local dollars.

3. The Comprehensive Plan Committee member (Ms. Trautwein and Mr. Schilpp)agreed that they had no additional policy changes and recommended the Planning Commission public hearing be scheduled for November 13, 2019. Staff explained that there would continue to be formatting and minor editorial changes to the plan before its release for public hearing on October 9, 2019. The Commission requested the public hearings be broadly advertised and promoted, including using social media and the City newsletter.

Meeting adjourned at 7:15 pm.

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CPA #2018-2000 – 2018 Comprehensive Plan Update November 8, 2019

Page 1

DATE: November 8, 2019 TO: Planning Commission FROM: Matthew D. Arcieri, AICP, Planning and Zoning Manager

Kelly E. Davis, AICP, Senior Planner SUBJECT: CPA #2018-2000 – Manassas 2040 Comprehensive Plan

Introduction

The formulation and implementation of the Comprehensive Plan is required by the Code of

Virginia. Specifically, Section 15.2-2223 requires every locality to adopt a comprehensive plan

for the long-range physical development of land within its jurisdiction. Within statutory

limitations afforded by state code, land development is managed according to the land use

policies in the Comprehensive Plan. The Code of Virginia Section 15.2-2230 requires the locality

to review the plan at least once every five years to ensure that it remains a living document

reflecting the community’s overall actions, shared vision, and policies centered on physical

development goals.

Process and Timeline

In April 2018, the Manassas City Council initiated a review and update of the Manassas

Comprehensive Plan. The resulting draft plan, the Manassas 2040 Comprehensive Plan, is the

culmination of a collaborative multi-year planning process that brought together citizens,

stakeholders, and local officials to define a community-driven vision for the future.

The Manassas 2040 Comprehensive Plan draws on community input from Community

Conversations outreach efforts conducted over a two year period. The first round, in 2017,

focused on high-level issues and priorities. The second round, in 2018, focused on specific

topics and priorities. Over this period, Manassas residents offered their ideas through 25

community discussions, 22 pop-up events, a town hall event, and a dedicated online forum. In

MEMORANDUM CITY OF MANASSAS

Department of Community Development

Phone: 703-257-8223 Fax: 703-257-5117

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total, Manassas Community Conversations engaged an estimated 1,300 community members in

forward-thinking dialogue about the future of Manassas. For more information on the

community outreach for the Comprehensive Plan visit www.manassascity.org/conversations.

Using Community Conversations input, biennial Citizen Satisfaction Survey results, and

supplemental studies on Housing and Transportation, the Planning Commission began drafting

the new Comprehensive Plan in January 2019. The Planning Commission’s work was led by the

Comprehensive Plan Committee with input welcomed from all Commission members. The

Comprehensive Plan Committee met fourteen times from January to October 2019 and held a

public vision summit in June 2019 to gather reactions to the draft goals and objectives.

On September 25, 2019, the Planning Commission held a work session to review the draft

Comprehensive Plan and recommended to proceed with the public hearing.

Planning Commission public hearings are scheduled for November 13, 2019, and December 4,

2019. Comments received throughout the public review process and staff-recommended policy

changes will be considered by Planning Commission prior to making a recommendation to City

Council. After the public hearing, Planning Commission may recommend to approve, amend

and approve, or disapprove the Plan.

City Council’s formal review will begin following Planning Commission’s recommendation. City

Council must act to approve, approve with amendment, or disapprove the plan within 90 days

of the Planning Commission resolution.

Public Comment Summary

A summary of comments received through the Comprehensive Plan drafting is provided in

Attachment 1. During the Planning Commission’s drafting in 2019, citizens and stakeholders

were invited to offer feedback on the plan through written comments, oral comments during

citizen’s time, and through a sticky-note exercise during the Vision Summit. The following table

provides a numerical summary of these comments.

Comment Type Lan

d U

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Ho

usi

ng

&

Ne

igh

bo

rho

od

s

Eco

no

mic

D

evel

op

men

t

Mo

bili

ty

Co

mm

un

ity

Faci

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s &

In

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re

Envi

ron

men

tal

Sust

ain

abili

ty &

Hea

lth

Par

ks, C

ult

ure

,

& R

ecre

atio

n

Tota

l

Written Community Comment 19 1 0 13 4 10 2 49

Citizen’s Time Comment 20 0 0 3 1 1 0 25

Vision Summit Comment 6 7 3 23 6 7 13 65

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http://www.manassascity.org/conversations

http://www.manassascity.org/conversations

http://www.manassascity.org/css


Page 3

Summary and Analysis

The Manassas 2040 Comprehensive Plan (the Plan) presents a shared vision for the future of

Manassas. The Plan is intended to guide City staff, public, Planning Commission, and City

Council decisions related to land use, development, transportation, and community facilities

through the year 2040. This Plan is both aspirational and practical – identifying the community’s

overarching goals and establishing a roadmap to achieve the desired future.

Plan Structure

The 2040 Comprehensive Plan outlines the community’s shared goals and identifies the actions

necessary to achieve those goals. The 2040 Comprehensive Plan generally maintains the

structure of the current Comprehensive Plan with goals and actions organized into the

following subject areas:

Land Use – Outlines growth, development, and preservation policies as well as

opportunities for new businesses, industry, housing, and mixed use development;

Housing and Neighborhoods – Identifies opportunites to meet the City’s housing needs

and preserve the character of residential areas;

Economic Development – Outlines business growth, job creation efforts, and tourism;

Mobility – Identifies multi-modal transportation improvements, including road, mass

transit (e.g., bus and train), bicycle, and pedestrian infrastructure;

Community Facilities – Identifies facility and infrastructure improvements needed to

provide public services to the community;

Environmental Sustainability & Health – Addresses the community’s natural resources

and public health goals; and

Parks, Culture, & Recreation – Identifies improvements needed to parks, recreational

facilities, and cultural assets.

The subject areas of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan have three major elements – goals,

objectives, and strategies – that define the policy guidance provided.

Goals are the aspirational statements outlining what the community wants to be in 20

years. These statements set the direction in which the community wants to move.

Objectives are the results the community wants to achieve. Achieving each of these

results moves the community closer to its goals.

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Strategies are the actions the community should take to achieve the objectives that

support the goals. Not all strategies will be undertaken simultaneously; some need to

build upon each other.

In addition to the individual subject areas, the 2040 Comprehensive Plan provides a suggested

implementation strategy and includes the data and trend analysis used to develop the goals,

objectives, and strategies.

Summary of Changes

The Manassas 2040 Comprehensive Plan continues and strengthens many of the key ideas from

the current plan, Manassas Next – the 2032 Comprehensive Plan, and incorporates new

information, studies, and recommendations. Goals, objectives, strategies, and supporting maps

for all chapters have been revised in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. If adopted, this

Comprehensive Plan Amendment (CPA #2018-2000) would repeal and replace the 2032

Comprehensive Plan in its entirety. CPA #2018-2000 would also repeal the current sector plans

for Mathis (i.e., Mathis Avenue Sector Plan) and the Downtown (i.e., Old Town Sector Plan) and

provide guidance for these areas within the text of the plan.

The sections that follow provide a descriptive summary of major changes proposed in the

revised plan.

Chapter 2 – Themes and Vision

Through the development of the Comprehensive Plan, four recurring themes emerged as

critical to the future of Manassas. These themes resonate throughout the Plan and reflect the

community’s vision for the Manassas of 2040.

The theme “Manassas is balanced” reflects the community’s need to balance growth,

development, land use, and social equity.

The theme “Manassas is connected” reflects ties to adjacent localities and the

Washington metro region, as well as the physical assets and social infrastructure that

foster economic, transportation, and social connections.

The theme “Manassas is vibrant” highlights the community’s vision for a thriving

economy and high quality of life that is unique to Manassas.

The theme “Manassas is resilient” recognizes the need to identify potential

vulnerabilities to effectively prevent, withstand, and quickly recover from unforeseen

disruptions – whether to economy, infrastructure, or environment.

The implementation plan (Appendix A) categorizes each strategy within the Plan according to

these four interrelated themes.

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In addition to these four themes, the 2040 Comprehensive Plan replaces the adopted vision

statement with the City Council’s strategic vision that Manassas will be “a community that

takes pride in our authentic history, livable neighborhoods, quality schools, healthy economy,

and outstanding quality of life.”

Chapter 3 – Land Use The Land Use Chapter presents a new goal and revised objectives and strategies to achieve the community’s vision for development in Manassas. Like the 2032 Comprehensive Plan, the draft 2040 Comprehensive Plan continues to focus on the appropriate form and character of development in different “character areas” throughout the City. The revised objectives and strategies focus on balancing land uses, supporting redevelopment, emphasizing design quality and character, providing adequate infrastructure to support development, and improving the appearance of gateways and corridors. Major land use strategies promoted by the 2040 Comprehensive Plan include, but are not limited to:

Preservation of commercial and manufacturing opportunities in areas that do not negatively impact residential.

Preservation of existing residential areas while allowing appropriate infill development.

Increased residential density in Downtown and Mathis character areas.

Enhanced open space and connectivity.

Relocation of commercial and manufacturing uses inconsistent with the character area design guidelines, and elimination of industrial zoning from residential and Downtown character areas.

Additional consideration of transition areas at the edges of character areas to allow gradual changes in development patterns.

Regulatory updates to the zoning ordinance, design and construction standards manual, architectural review guidelines to implement the character area design principles and recommendations of the Comprehensive Plan.

The Character Area map serves as the long-range land use plan for the City of Manassas. As part of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan update, the Plan includes a revised character area (land use) map, revised land use definitions, and an expanded set of design principles to guide the form and character of development within each character area. The design principles have been streamlined and restructured. Major changes to the character areas include:

Suburban Neighborhoods character area – The boundaries of the Suburban Neighborhoods character area are expanded to include certain portions of the previously-designated Neighborhood Business, Sudley Medical, and Mathis character areas. Multifamily residential is added to the list of appropriate land uses to reflect current conditions within the character area. The revised design principles soften the language relating to developing new attached or multifamily residential structures in the Suburban Neighborhoods character area. The 2040 Comprehensive Plan states that new

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attached or multifamily residential in this character area should generally occur in the form of redevelopment of existing townhouse/apartment sites (emphasis added). The revised design principles also include new density standards for townhouse/apartment redevelopment and includes lot and building size recommendations for retail/services and office development.

Traditional Neighborhoods character area – The boundaries of the Traditional Neighborhoods character area are expanded to include certain portions of the previously-designated Sudley Medical and Mathis character areas. Multifamily residential is added to the list of appropriate land uses to reflect current conditions within the character area. The revised design principles soften the language relating to developing new multifamily and attached residential structures in the Traditional Neighborhoods character area. The Plan states that new attached or multifamily residential in this character area should generally occur in the form of redevelopment of existing townhouse/apartment sites (emphasis added). The revised design principles also include new density standards for townhouse/apartment redevelopment and includes lot and building size recommendations for retail/services and office development.

Neighborhood Business character area – The boundaries of the Neighborhood Business character area along Dumfries Road are modified to reflect current land uses. A new Neighborhood Business area is added within the Hastings Marketplace development to encompass the mixed use development along the western edge of Market Street. As a technical correction, vertical mixed use, which is supported in the neighborhood business design principles in the current plan, is added to the list of appropriate land uses.

General Business – The existing Business Corridor character area is renamed “General Business” in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. This character area is proposed to be extended along Liberia Avenue to encompass portions previously-designated as Mathis and Industrial/Suburban Business. This designation eliminates the potential for residential land uses along this portion of the Liberia corridor.

Heavy Commercial/Suburban Business character area – The existing Industrial/Suburban Business character area is renamed “Heavy Commercial/ Suburban Business” to reflect the community’s desire to limit heavy industrial land uses within the City of Manassas. The area is also substantially reduced with the creation of the Godwin Technology character area in the western portion of the City and the expansion of the General Business area along Liberia Avenue. As a technical correction, the list of appropriate land uses is updated to exclude residential as a permitted component of vertical mixed use development.

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Downtown character area – The boundaries of the Downtown character area are modified to incorporate the Annaburg and Prescott neighborhoods. The character area incorporates many of the land use and design recommendations from the previously adopted Old Town Sector Plan into the Downtown character area. The Downtown land use and design recommendations support creating a vibrant, robust downtown, encouraging business development and new urban residential choices, while preserving the downtown’s historic identity by protecting its historic structures. The Downtown character area recommends that existing residential neighborhoods should be preserved and protected. Rather than providing specific neighborhood design guidelines like the previously adopted Old Town Sector Plan, the 2040 Comprehensive Plan states that development in Downtown Neighborhoods should follow the design principles for Traditional Neighborhood character area. Land use – The 2040 Comprehensive Plan discontinues the land use map provided in the adopted Old Town Sector Plan. In lieu of the land use map, the 2040 Comprehensive Plan designates a “Downtown Core” area and a primary retail/entertainment edge and provides guidelines for these areas. This approach is generally more flexible than the Old Town Sector Plan to address market uncertainties and existing conditions. Building height – Building height within the Downtown was a major topic of deliberation during the 2040 Comprehensive Plan development. While the 2040 Comprehensive Plan does not recommend a specific height cap on development within the Historic Downtown, new buildings within the area designated “Downtown core” taller than 130 percent of the prevailing height along the block face should be stepped back so that the additional building height is not visible from the street adjacent to the block face. The design principles also state that there should be no increase to the height or stories of contributing structures. This balanced approach to building height reflects the need to preserve the historic identity of the community while allowing infill development to enhance the quality of the area. Opportunity areas – The Downtown character area includes a map and recommendations for unique opportunity areas for redevelopment and infill that would enhance the surrounding area. This concept is a continuation of the opportunity areas and neighborhood recommendations identified in the existing sector plan. The purpose of opportunity areas varies from site to site. Opportunity sites allow for the identification of uses desired for a particular site or indicate where deviations from the character area design principles may be permitted. They may also identify areas for specific environmental or historic resource protections or indicate additional emphasis on transitions for infill sites not otherwise provided for in the character area design principles. By identifying locations for infill and redevelopment, the concept provides transparency to the citizens and the development community.

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Mathis character area – The Mathis character area is proposed to be reduced in area, and the portion of the character area along the north side of Liberia Avenue from Centreville Road to Richmond Avenue is proposed to be designated as General Business. The land use and design principles are based on the previously adopted Mathis Avenue Sector Plan, which have been incorporated into the Mathis character area. The Mathis character area design principles recommend creating a mixed-residential area with supportive commercial uses that complements the historic character of Downtown. The Mathis character area provides an opportunity for a variety of high-quality residential neighborhoods, including small lot single-family homes, townhouse units, and mid-rise multifamily units. Overall, the proposed density within the Mathis corridor is recommended to be reduced from high-rise development proposed under the adopted sector plan to mid-rise development. Land uses throughout the Mathis character area are generally more flexible under the proposed 2040 Comprehensive Plan to address market uncertainties and existing conditions.

Sudley Medical character area – The boundaries of the existing Hospital/Sudley character area have been reduced and the character area is proposed to be renamed the Sudley Medical character area. The 2040 Comprehensive Plan incorporates design principles focused on creating a high-quality medical center focused on health and wellness. It should be noted that the current 2032 Comprehensive Plan provides no design principles for this area.

Godwin Technology character area – The map and plan create a new Godwin Technology character area with land use and design recommendations to create a high-quality, regional employment center. This character area is located along Godwin Drive and Nokesville Road in the western portion of the City. The Godwin Technology character area encompasses and eliminates the existing Manassas Landing character area and substantially reduces the existing Industrial/Suburban Business character area.

Airport – The boundaries of the Airport character area have been modified to include additional airport and industrial land located north of the Norfolk Southern railroad right of way. The character area language has been updated in consultation with Manassas Regional Airport staff.

Gateways and Corridors character area – The Gateways and Corridors character area is intended to serve as an overlay character area to the other land use designations. New gateways are included at the following locations: Wellington Rd/Godwin Dr; Centreville Rd at the City’s eastern gateway; Liberia Ave at the City’s northern gateway; Stonewall Rd/Centreville Road at the western gateway to the Historic Downtown; and Wellington Rd/Liberia Ave. The designated gateway at Richmond Ave/Liberia Ave has been eliminated, and the exact location of the additional designated gateways has been modified, as appropriate. In addition, the designated corridors have been modified to better align with the Complete Streets typology.

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Chapter 4 – Housing and Neighborhoods The Housing and Neighborhoods Chapter is based largely on the technical recommendations from the Manassas 2019 Citywide Housing Plan. The Chapter includes a revised goal and recommends new objectives and strategies for addressing neighborhood vitality, neighborhood partnerships, neighborhood character, housing affordability and quality, and housing balance. Among the recommendations in the Housing and Neighborhoods Chapter, the Plan recommends that the City address the housing needs of the community through:

Preservation of existing neighborhoods through neighborhood enhancement projects, code enforcement, grants, neighborhood capacity building, and other programs;

New residential uses in the Mathis and Downtown character areas;

Development of higher-end housing to capture a market segment currently underrepresented in Manassas; and,

Ordinance and zoning changes to support affordable and “missing middle” housing, particularly for young and elderly family members.

In addition to new objectives and strategies, the 2040 Comprehensive Plan discontinues the use of “General Neighborhood Areas” for neighborhood planning. These neighborhood areas have provided limited usefulness as they do not follow census boundaries, and therefore, cannot be used for benchmarking neighborhood quality indicators. Chapter 5 – Economic Development

The Economic Development Chapter includes revisions to align with the Economic Development strategic plan. The Chapter recommends a new goal and objectives and strategies for economic development promotion, business attraction and expansion, development and redevelopment, workforce development, and tourism. The Chapter also includes a map identifying available economic development incentive areas within Manassas. Chapter 6 – Mobility

The revised Mobility Chapter continues the 2032 Comprehensive Plan’s focus on multimodal transportation and incorporates the technical recommendations of the 2019 Manassas Transportation Master Plan. The revised objectives and strategies address recommendations for the regional network, multimodal connectivity, the local network, and mobility safety, resiliency, and sustainability. Of particular note, the revised strategies include recommended level of service ratings of “C” or better for the majority of City streets, with “D” or better along the Liberia Avenue and Godwin Drive corridors. The Chapter identifies recommended roadway transportation improvements through the year 2040 as required by Code of Virginia § 15.2-2223. Major mobility projects and initiatives promoted by the 2040 Comprehensive Plan include, but are not limited to:

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Godwin Drive extended;

Route 28 improvements, including Bus Rapid Transit;

Improved transit services, including OmniRide bus and Virginia Railway Express; and,

Citywide bike and pedestrian infrastructure and safety projects. In addition to the specific improvements listed in the Plan, the revised Mobility Chapter implements the 2032 policy recommendation to develop a complete streets plan with the adoption of a complete streets typology map and typical road cross-sections. The complete streets typology moves away from the traditional functional street classification system that addresses only vehicular circulation. The complete streets typology addresses safety and comfort for all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, and transit riders of all ages and abilities. The complete streets typology map and typical road cross-sections are intended to be used when planning roadway improvements to determine the optimal road geometry and required pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure. The Mobility Chapter replaces the current Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan with an updated bike network plan and a pedestrian network plan to address sidewalk gaps and pedestrian safety. While the City seeks to provide pedestrian and bike accommodations on all streets through the complete streets typology, the bike and pedestrian network plans represent the constrained plan for prioritizing capital improvements. It should be noted that the long-range bike network does not include the Winter’s Branch trail extension from Wellington Road to Grant Avenue based on feedback from residents in the surrounding neighborhood. Chapter 7 – Community Facilities and Infrastructure The Community Facilities and Infrastructure Chapter addresses facility and infrastructure needs to meet current demands and future service needs through 2040. The Plan identifies that particular attention is needed to improve public schools, sanitary sewer system capacity, and fire and rescue response. The Chapter includes an updated community facilities map and revised objectives and strategies to address general and administrative facilities, education, public safety, infrastructure, solid waste management, and telecommunications. Specific recommendations include, but are not limited to:

Modernizing city-owned offices;

Providing additional multipurpose community spaces;

Supporting the Manassas City Public Schools School Facility Plan;

Completing construction of Fire and Rescue Station #21 and the new public safety facility;

Planning for an additional fire station to provide the optimal 4-minute response time citywide;

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Completing infrastructure improvements and upgrades to address water, wastewater, stormwater, and electric infrastructure demands.

Updating and implementing the City’s solid waste management plan; and,

Implementing Wi-Fi accessible public spaces. In addition, the Chapter includes revised level of service standards that serve as the basis for developing the City’s Capital Improvement Program and for analyzing the impacts of new development. The revised standards address police facilities and identify school student generation by development type for the purposes of calculating student generation rates for new development.

Chapter 8 – Environmental Sustainability and Health The Environmental Sustainability and Health Chapter incorporates recommendations that will help Manassas become a more sustainable, resilient, and healthy city. The revised objectives and strategies call for the City to implement an overarching sustainability ethic, develop a sustainability and green infrastructure plan, and preserve and protect vegetation, tree canopy, and water resources, improve air quality, and reduce noise and light pollution. The Chapter includes a green infrastructure network map, which identifies network gaps and areas for potential green streets. The Chapter also incorporates a new objective and supporting strategies to address public health. Chapter 9 – Parks, Culture, and Recreation The Parks, Culture, and Recreation Chapter is reorganized and revised to incorporate new community needs identified following the 2016 Parks Needs Assessment and Facility Plan. The Chapter includes objectives and strategies addressing facilities and amenities, historic preservation, maintenance and reinvestments in existing facilities, development and redevelopment impacts, greenways and trails, and culture and the arts. Major projects recommended in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan include, but are not limited to:

Updating the 2016 Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Needs Assessment and Facilities Plan following the 2020 census;

Implementing the Dean Park Master Plan;

Implementing the Stonewall Park Master Plan;

Renovating Manassas Museum; and,

Reinvesting in library facilities. In addition, the Chapter includes revised level of service standards that serve as the basis for

developing the City’s Capital Improvement Program and for analyzing the impacts of new

development. The level of service standards have been updated to address changes in existing

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facilities, incorporate school facilities available for public use per the City/school shared use

agreement, and update facility deficits based on current population projections.

Staff Recommendation

Pursuant to Code of Virginia § 15.2-2223, staff finds that the draft 2040 Comprehensive Plan

will provide a coordinated and harmonious development of the City of Manassas and will, in

accordance with present and probable future needs and resources, best promote the health,

safety, morals, order, convenience, prosperity and general welfare of the inhabitants, including

the elderly and persons with disabilities. Staff recommends approval of CPA #2018-2000.

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Written Community Comments 1 of 46

2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdateWritten Community CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response

1 Requested the City preserve historic skyline and include goal of reducing height maximum in historic downtown from 65' for B-3.5 and 55' for B-3 to a height that would only permit 3 story buildings.

12/16/2018 Judith Molinelli, Resident

Land Use Comment acknowledged - The draft Downtown Core design principles recommend that there should be no increase to the height or stories of contributing structures. In addition, the draft text specifies the incorporation of step backs when new buildings are taller than 130 percent of the prevailing building height. Staff does not recommend a goal to reduce Downtown building height via a zoning text amendment.

2 Requested that 9075 Euclid Avenue be replanned from Industrial/Suburban to Mixed Use to allow residential development.

1/28/2016 (Per LUC) Carlos Montenegro, Property Owner

Rep.

Land Use Comment acknowledged - See agenda dated 6/12/19 for additional discussion.

3 Requested the creation of a distinct Old Town land use category. 2/13/2019 Judith Molinelli, Resident

Land Use Comment addressed - The proposed draft provides separate design principles for the "Downtown Core" and "Downtown Neighborhoods".

4 Requested the City update the zoning ordinance to reduce maximum building heights in Old Town.


Land Use Comment acknowledged - The draft Downtown Core design principles recommend that there should be no increase to the height or stories of contributing structures. In addition, the draft text specifies the incorporation of step backs when new buildings are taller than 130 percent of the prevailing building height. Staff does not recommend a goal to reduce Downtown building height via a zoning text amendment. (See email response dated 2/14)

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5 Requested information on how to reduce building height through zoning and the Comprehensive plan.


Land Use Comment acknowledged - The draft Downtown Core design principles recommend that there should be no increase to the height or stories of contributing structures. In addition, the draft text specifies the incorporation of step backs when new buildings are taller than 130 percent of the prevailing building height. Staff does not recommend a goal to reduce Downtown building height via a zoning text amendment. (See email response dated 2/18)

6 Voting records on building height, zoning decisions, and the Comprehensive Plan will be made available to the public via the Preserve Historic Manassas website.


Land Use Comment acknowledged - Email dated 2/18 provided information on zoning changes and zoning ordinance updates.

7 Requested information on the progress made for the Mathis Avenue Sector Plan and commented that the area does not receive the attention it needs regarding land use improvements; improving the Mathis Corridor should be paramount in any of the city’s improvement budgeting.

2/27/2019 Lindsay Simmons, Resident

Land Use Comment addressed - The Mathis character area description provides additional design principles for this area. Email dated 3/4/2019 provided information on recent and on-going actions (e.g., facade improvement, streetscape standards, Mathis streetscape project, and Opportunity Zones).

8 Requested information on architectural review board and zoning requirements, step backs, height, and shadows in Old Town and in the B-4 zoning district abutting residential. (see email for details)


Land Use Comment acknowledged - Matt Arcieri met with Judith and other interested citizens on 2/28 to address questions.

9 Commented on the need to maintain buffer zones between residential and commercial properties and limit businesses in neighborhoods.

2/15/2019 LCMAZZIT (via Let's Talk Manassas)

Land Use Comment addressed - Transition language added to LU 3.3.4 to improve transition and buffer areas between residential and commercial properties. It should be noted that the character area design principles allow some compatible business uses in residential areas. 23



10 Requested building height limit of 35 feet in Old Town. 3/1/2019 Judith Molinelli, Resident


11 Not supportive of trail along the railroad east of Fairview Ave due to loss of greenspace and loss of yards.

3/4/2019 Mark Hempen, Resident

Mobility Comment addressed - Trail along railroad is not included in pedestrian or bicycle recommendations.

12 Requested the City provide sidewalk along Center Street. 3/4/2019 Mark Hempen, Resident

Mobility Comment addressed - The requested sidewalk is included in the pedestrian recommendations.

13 Requested the City provide sidewalk on Quarry, Prescott, and Center Street before considering a trail along the railroad. Trail will remove residential buffer to train tracks. Supportive of greenspace and keeping the residential neighborhood intact.

3/6/2019 Ann Hempen, Resident

Mobility Comment addressed - The requested sidewalks are included in the pedestrian recommendations.

14 Requested building height limits be reduced in the Historic District and next to old residential neighborhoods and the placement of four, five, and six story buildings needs to be carefully considered.


Land Use Comment acknowledged - The draft design principles have been strengthened to discuss step backs, massing, and other building characteristics. Staff does not recommend reducing the building height limit via a zoning text amendment.

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15 Provided compilation and summary of Preserve Historic Manassas Initiative survey results:*4 to 1 against more Messenger building itself as not fitting in Old Town.* More than 7 to 1 are against allowing more 65 foot tall buildings in Old Town.* 4 to 1 in favor of keeping existing buildings at their PRESENT HEIGHT.* Most people want to make preserving Old Town an issue when voting (20 to 1), and most indicated that they would not reelect anyone who approved the Messenger Building (although not all surveys had this question on them)



16 Requested the Winters Branch Trail extension be removed in the 2040 Comprehensive Plan.

3/12/2019 Greg Tsukalas, Resident

Mobility Comment addressed - The Winters Branch Trail extension is not included in pedestrian or bicycle recommendations.

17 Provided feedback on the Downtown visioning work session, specifically that input on the vision for residential neighborhoods should be limited to the residents that live within that specific community.

3/12/2019 Greg Tsukalas, Resident

Land Use Comment acknowledged.

18 Requested the Downtown character area be extended to the south along Center Street to include the area referred to as the Madison and Wall Street neighborhood.

3/14/2019 Donn Smith, Property Owner

Land Use Comment acknowledged - Staff recommends this area be included in the new "Godwin Technology" area per the proposed Character Area map.

19 Stated support for allowing 5 story buildings in Old Town, stating that Messenger Place increases density and provides ground floor retail to make the area more vibrant and that restriction to three stories would discourage investment. The mixed-use higher density creates a unique urban neighborhood character, with Old Town being the unique place within the city where such density, walkability, and vibrancy are feasible.

4/1/2019 Andrew Kovacs, Resident

Land Use Comment addressed - The proposed Downtown Core building design principles maintain the existing height limits for new construction with additional consideration for stepbacks and massing.

20 Requested density at the Manassas Landing area to stimulate further economic growth.

3/29/2019 Drew (via Let's Talk Manassas)

Land Use Comment addressed - The proposed draft supports planned mixed use development within the Manassas Landing (Godwin Technology) area. 25



21 Stated concern over affordable housing and ability for low income families cannot afford to live in Manassas where they work.

3/25/2019 Mikefree43 (via Let's Talk Manassas)

Housing & Neighborhoods

Comment addressed - See objectives and strategies: HOU 4.4, HOU 4.5.2, HOU 4.5.4.

22 Requested more neighborhood connector trails to better connect neighborhoods; Prioritize missing side paths along busier roads; Extend proposed bikeways to the City Limits; Add missing Signed On-Street Bike Routes; Comments on the Proposed Street Typologies and Street Cross Sections (see comments)

4/20/2019 Allen Muchnick, Resident

Mobility Comments acknowledged and addressed as appropriate in the Objectives and Strategies (MOB 6.1.5, MOB 6.2.2, MOB 6.2.4, MOB 6.3.5, MOB 6.4.1, MOB 6.4.3) and with revisions to the Transportation Master Plan street typology and pedestrian & bicycle networks.

23 Commended the positive efforts in the Transportation Master Plan to create an effective trail network for both recreation and mobility. Encouraged the City to continue looking forward when planning networks for green infrastructure and cultural areas.

5/1/2019 Kim Hosen on Behalf of Prince

William Conservation

Alliance

Mobility Comment acknowledged.

24 Recommended a measurable objective for increasing tree canopy, as Washington DC has done. Increasing tree canopy reduces stormwater runoff, improves community appearance, support birds and other wildlife, and minimizes the city's "heat island" effect.



Alliance

Environment & Health

Comment addressed - See Strategy ESH 8.2.1.

25 Recommended spaces around schools and park boundaries (such as Mayfield Fort) as good candidates for replanting projects. The City should consider replanting a portion of Annaburg Manor.



Alliance



26 Recommended the City seek to minimize the loss of its existing mature tree canopy, including an inventory of the remaining natural areas within the City. Good candidates include stream corridors, Baldwin Park, Cannon Branch Fort, Stonewall Park , Liberia, Winters Branch, areas near Haydon and George C. Round elementary schools.



Alliance



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27 The city's greatest unused recreational asset is Lake Manassas. Other jurisdictions allow non-motorized boating and angling on their drinking water reservoirs, providing a scarce recreational opportunity in our urbanizing areas. Lake Manassas is publicly-owned, and should be opened for some public use. Because many users will come from other jurisdictions, PWCA suggests that the city should bargain with Prince William for sharing the benefits and the costs of opening Lake Manassas.



Alliance

Parks, Recreation, & Culture

Comment acknowledged - The Comprehensive Plan Committee defers to City Council on the use of Lake Manassas for recreation purposes.

28 Requested the new Comprehensive Plan encourage the non-government sector (residents, businesses, non-profits...) to reduce the use of energy and minimize carbon dioxide emissions, and revising the electricity rate structure to encourage use of renewable energy sources should be one strategy to accomplish that objective.

5/9/2019 Mike Freeland, Resident


Comment addressed - See Objective ESH 8.5 and Strategy ESH 8.5.4. - Comment on consideration of changes to electricity rate structure is generally outside the scope of the Comprehensive Plan and has been provided to the City Utility Department for further consideration.

29 Commented on draft goal statement: Strike “family-oriented” as it does not balance with “residents of all ages and abilities”. Leaving it as written is exclusionary. However, if the Committee consensus is to have a targeted approach in development of said opportunities in the statement, an alternative using current and appropriate language would be: “…by developing person- and family-oriented recreational….” Please be aware that “family-oriented” is more a principal which places “families first”; centering on traditional values or mores. Most often it is used in marketing of a specific activity or event.

5/22/2019 Raymond Beverage, Resident

Parks, Recreation, & Culture

Comment acknowledged - Per Planning Commission, the goal was changed from "family-oriented" to "family-friendly".

30 Commented on ESH 8.7: Statement reads as if City Government will be paying for these choices by fixing the cost of the healthy choices. “affordable” has a ton of variable first being one’s own fiscal status. Recommend using the HEAL language and restate to: “Transform the community to support health and well-being by promoting healthy choices within eating and active living."



Comment addressed - See Objective ESH 8.7.

31 Commented on ESH 8.7.1: Change "that" to "which" for more active language. This goal is workable given the HEAL Assessment tool which enables policy review & development.



Comment acknowledged - The word "that" is used intentionally as a restrictive clause.

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32 Commented on ESH 8.7.2: Change "conduct" to "participate" with the community health agencies in development of a comprehensive community health needs assessment and add "integrate with HEAL policies & programs" to improve the health of Manassas residents. A Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) – is a responsibility for our local Health Systems and so the City Government does not need to expend funding to redo since we are included in the CHNA. Eliminate the duplication of effort. Prince William Health District the lead agency for Population Health. Given the two Health Systems within the Greater Prince William Area (who are required to perform a CHNA), the Community Healthcare Coalition of Greater Prince William was created to bring together the two Systems and all entities – to include this City – in development of the CHNA. Individual persons can also participate. Locally, this is the “Be Healthy Be Happy Prince William County”. Additional information can be provided on request.



Commented addressed - See Strategy ESH 8.7.2.

33 Commented on ESH 8.7.3: Statement blends with others 5/22/2019 Raymond Beverage, Resident


Comment acknowledged.

34 Commented on ESH 8.7.4: Change the word "problems" to "issues". It will be interesting to see how this is expanded given the broadness of the statement. “safe” is definable with relation to structure integrity; Police & FRS; “sanitary” can be extended to include stormwater, etc.



Comment addressed - See clarified language in Strategy ESH 8.7.4.

35 Commented on ESH 8.7.5: This actually falls more like being under an “action” for ESH 8.7.1 above. Commendable to have this as a separate item to draw attention; tie in with HEAL.



Comment acknowledged. Strategy retained.

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36 Commented that the Bull Run Unitarian Universalists (BRUU) at the corner of Church and Main look forward to making that area more accessible for all, including pedestrians and bikers. We also encourage the city to add more parking spaces for the disabled, so they can participate fully in the events downtown. Even before Church Street is converted so vehicle traffic is directed into one lane, we request that the city add more parking reserved for the disabled near the corner of Church and Main.

5/28/2019 Art Muirhead, President, on behalf of the 211 members

of BRUU

Mobility Comment acknowledged - Recommendations to convert Church Street to one travel lane in order to add parking and bicycle facilities would only occur after completion of the Godwin Drive extension and subsequent decrease in vehicle traffic. Comment on immediate addition of parking reserved for the disabled is outside the scope of the Comprehensive Plan and has been provided to the Department of Public Works for further consideration.

37 Commented that the city's rate structure for electricity is a barrier to sustainable energy and suggests the city's Comprehensive Plan should also encourage a long-term shift to locally-generated renewable energy and encourage the non-government sector to join in the effort. Because the city provides electricity, it has an opportunity to stimulate residents, business, and non-government organizations such as BRUU to reduce the use of electricity generated by fossil fuels. We suggest adding a new objective and implementing strategy:(Objective 7.7) Support energy efficiency and reduction of carbon dioxide emissions within the non-government sector. (Strategy 7.7.1) Revise utility rate structures to incentivize residents, businesses, and non-commercial operations to reduce peak energy use and to install residential- and commercial-scale renewable energy (e.g., solar panels).

5/28/2019 Art Muirhead, President, on behalf of the 211 members

of BRUU

Community Facilities

Comment acknowledged - See Objective ESH 8.5 and supporting strategies for non-government sector initiatives. Comment on consideration of changes to electricity rate structure is generally outside the scope of the Comprehensive Plan and has been provided to the City Utility Department for further consideration.

38 Commented against moving customer service activities to the current DMV location, stating that it would divert economic activity from downtown and be more difficult for citizens, especially those who can't drive, to conduct business at this remote, transit-inaccessible location.



Comment acknowledged - As stated in the memo dated 5/8/19, since 2000, Manassas has explored options to expand City Hall and has implemented various staff relocations to optimize existing space. The relocation of the DMV will open critically-needed space that the City intends to backfill as office space.

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39 Commented against building a new public safety and fire station when excess vacant office space will exist in current facilities.



Comment acknowledged - As stated in the memo dated 5/8/19, new public safety facilities are needed to meet space deficits and emergency response times. It is anticipated that existing office space will be back-filled, allowing the City and/or Schools to vacate existing leased space.

40 Questioned a comprehensive, strategic, cost-effective, and publicly vetted plan for the future of City facilities.



Comment acknowledged.

41 Expressed concern for buildings more that 2-3 stories high in the Commercial District and stated that such an action would seriously distract from the historic nature that attracts people to our restaurants and shops. Any such new buildings should not be of the cheaper variety as the Messenger Building but should be of a substantial style representative of the 1900 era. Taller housing can be built on the other side of the tracks. People need and are attracted by open spaces and sun-filled sidewalks.

6/5/2019 Ellen Percy Miller, Resident


42 Commented on Messenger Place height, lack of setback, and shadows. Requested height limit of 3 stories (or 45 feet) to maintain historic character.

6/10/2019 Philip Lindgren, Business Owner


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43 Expressed concern for buildings more that 2-3 stories high in the Commercial District and stated that such an action would seriously distract from the historic nature that attracts people to our restaurants and shops. Any such new buildings should not be of the cheaper variety as the Messenger Building but should be of a substantial style representative of the 1900 era. Taller housing can be built on the other side of the tracks. People need and are attracted by open spaces and sun-filled sidewalks.

6/10/2019 Ellen Percy Miller, Resident


44 Requested to prioritize Prince William Street and beautify the road, as well as surrounding buildings and landscaping.

Also requested wider sidewalks or bike lanes for pedestrian/biker transportation. Right now, bikers use sidewalks because there are no bike lines. This pushes runners and pedestrians into oncoming traffic on the streets, especially when the sidewalks are blocked by fences or walls on one side (i.e. West side of Grant Avenue between Wellington and Prince William, and the South side of Center/Church Street by the cemetery/ Fire station). The sidewalk on Grant street is also so narrow that when car doors are open, the entire sidewalk is blocked.

6/25/2019 Katie Bidinger Mobility Comment addressed - The Mobility Chapter recommends wider pedestrian zones and bike lanes as part of the Complete Streets typology. Prince William Street is under construction; the Grant Avenue streetscape project will improve pedestrian and bike lanes along the referenced segment.

45Expressed support for local initiatives to increase the number and quality of bike lanes in the city and surrounding areas. Specifically, for bike lanes to be added to Godwin Dr. between Rt. 28 and Wellington Rd. Husband bikes on this stretch of road in order to get to work and has often found the lack of bike lanes to be a safety hazard.

7/24/2019 Christine Wood, Resident

Mobility Comment acknowledged - Bike facilities are an integral component of the Mobility plan. The bike trail along Godwin Drive from the Winters Branch Trail to Wellington Road is a funded project.

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46Regarding Bicycle and Pedestrian Network Needs on page 12: I disagree with the characterization of a North-South imbalance in the cycling connections within Manassas. While the south has the Winter's Branch Trail, the Wellington Rd sidepath, and sharrows on Hastings Dr, the street grid connectivity on the south side of Manassas is generally inferior to the low-traffic street connections on the north side (except for northeast of Liberia Ave where there is almost no connectivity). I would not characterize one half or the other as being inferior or superior; rather, they are simply distinctly different.



47Similarly, the point about the lack of a north-south route comparable in quality to an east-west route consisting of the poorly maintained Wellington Rd sidepath (overhanging branches in multiple locations) and the Winters Branch Trail (which still lacks basic wayfinding) ignores the fact that a relatively low-stress north-south route already exists with Stonewall Rd (starting at the pool), Weems Rd, Portner Ave, Main St, and South Grant Ave. Generally, the latter route is more comfortable and connects to more destinations (especially downtown).



48 Speed limit guidelines on page 43: Some of the recommended posted speed limits in the table are too high. In particular, the posted speed limits on Stonewall Road, Oakshaw Drive, Weems Road, Clover Hill Road, Liberia Avenue north of Rte 28, Godwin Dr south of Rte 28, and the entirety of Grant Ave and Hastings Dr should not exceed 25 MPH. In addition, the posted speed limits on Liberia Ave south of Rte 28 and on Sudley Rd west of Grant Ave should not exceed 30 MPH. The only road in the City where a 35 MPH posted speed limit seems reasonable is Godwin Dr between Rte 28 and Sudley Rd and also the Prince William Parkway at the southeast edge of the City.



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49 Missing sidewalk connections to be prioritized (map on page 51): Please recommend adding sidewalks to at least one side on these two blocks to complete a missing sidewalk link between Peabody St and Stonewall Rd, immediately north of the County Courthouse Complex: 1) Robnel Ave between Peabody St and Nelson Ln and 2) Nelson Ln between Robnel Ave and Stonewall Rd. Presently, those two blocks have no sidewalks at all on either side of the roadway.


Mobility Comment acknowledged - This gap is proposed to be addressed through sidewalk gap connection improvements on Beauregard Avenue.

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Citizens' Time Comments 13 of 46

2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdateCitizens' Time CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response

1 Stated appreciation of affordable senior housing close to Downtown, but feels Messenger Place is too tall and requests restriction of Downtown building height to 3 stories.

2/13/2019 Carol Hillard, Resident


2 Presented Preserve Historic Manassas initiative and requested that the Committee recommend policies to reduce height within the historic downtown. See written comments for more details.



3 Stated support for the Preserve Historic Manassas initiative and emphasized the need to preserve the City's charm.

2/13/2019 Sheryl Bass, Resident

Land Use Comment acknowledged - The draft Downtown design principles are intended to preserve the City's charm, protect historic building, and enhance the character and quality of the district.

4 Stated support for the Preserve Historic Manassas initiative and emphasized the need to preserve the City's charm. Recommended that new construction look historic and more integrated with historic buildings.

2/13/2019 Philip Landgrin, Resident


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5 Requested height limit reduction in historic district. Suggested consideration of topography in determining allowable building height.



6 Highlighted the City's motto "Historic Heart. Modern Beat." and requested a focus on charm when considering new buildings.

2/13/2019 Lynn Forkell, Resident


7 Requested the City update the policy for utility rate peak charges, as the current policy is burdensome for small businesses.

2/13/2019 Mark Hempen, Resident


Comment acknowledged - Consideration of changes to utility rate structure is generally outside the scope of the Comprehensive Plan and has been provided to the City Utility Department for further consideration.

8 Requested 3-story height limit along Prescott Ave, including B-4 area currently included as part of Mathis Corridor character area.


Land Use Comment acknowledged - The subject area is proposed to be incorporated into the Downtown character and be subject to traditional neighborhood design principles. Staff does not recommend a goal to reduce Downtown building height via a zoning text amendment.

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9 Requested preservation of residential character on Prescott Avenue. 2/27/2019 Eugene Molinelli, Resident

Land Use Comment addressed - The subject area is proposed to be incorporated into the Downtown character and be subject to traditional neighborhood design principles.

10 Stated support for preservation of the City's historic character. Supports Ms. Molinelli's requests.


Land Use Comment acknowledged - The draft Downtown Core design principles are intended to preserve the City's historic character.

11 Stated support for the Preserve Historic Manassas initiative and recommends building height limitation in Old Town.



12 Stated support for smart growth, density, and reduced parking requirements.

3/27/2019 Coleman Rector, Business/ Property

owner

Land Use Comment addressed - The Downtown design principles provide opportunity for compatible infill and development within the Downtown character area.

13 Stated support for Wellington Road shared use path, but must also recommends addressing lighting conditions and maintenance.

4/10/2019 Greg Tkukalis, Resident

Mobility Comment addressed - See Strategy MOB 6.2.2 and 6.3.6.

14 Requested more neighborhood connectors be provided between cul-de-sacs (particularly with Manassas Park). Needs for additional bike routes.


Mobility Comment addressed - See Strategy MOB 6.2.5 and revisions to the bicycle recommendations.

15 Stated support for Mathis character area design principles and requested the Commission consider increasing building height in the Mathis character area to make redevelopment financially viable.

4/24/2019 Mike Vanderpool, Resident

Land Use Comment acknowledged - The plan currently recommends building heights of 4-6 stories.

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16 Summarized comments submitted on 4/20/2019. See written comments for details.


Mobility Comments acknowledged and addressed as appropriate in the Objectives and Strategies (MOB 6.1.5, MOB 6.2.2, MOB 6.2.4, MOB 6.3.5, MOB 6.4.1, MOB 6.4.2, and MOB 6.5.2) and with revisions to the Transportation Master Plan street typology and pedestrian & bicycle networks maps.

17 Does not support height reductions Downtown, citing the impacts of limiting building height and the challenges of redevelopment and infill in Manassas.

5/1/2019 Rich Nishanian Land Use Comment addressed - The draft Downtown Core design principles recommend that there should be no increase to the height or stories of contributing structures. In addition, the draft text specifies the incorporation of step backs when new buildings are taller than 130 percent of the prevailing building height. Staff does not recommend a goal to reduce Downtown building height via a zoning text amendment.

18 Stated support for additional density Downtown, citing the advantages of smart growth and residential density near transportation hubs. Does not support height reductions Downtown.

5/1/2019 Coleman Rector, Business/ Property

owner

Land Use Comment addressed - The Downtown design principles provide opportunity for compatible infill and development within the Downtown character area.

19 Commended the City for recognizing environment and protection of natural resources in the plan and recommended that City inventory natural resources, recognize the need to acquire additional park land, and provide access to passive open space. He also commented on the need to align trails and open space resources with County plans.

5/22/2019 Charles Grimes / Prince William Conservation

Alliance


Comment addressed - See Strategy ESH 8.1.1 for natural resources inventory. See parks level of service for park land acquisition. See ESH 8.3 and PCR 9.5 for access to nature/open space and trails.

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20 Provided examples of a mixed use building that his client would like to build on Euclid Avenue and offered the Planning Commission the opportunity to tour the building. Also commented on the draft Downtown character area language stating that the step back provision should be clarified to provide additional specificity.

6/5/2019 Mike Vanderpool, Resident


21Read an excerpt from the Georgetown Act, and encouraged the Commission to provide a clear and unequivocal commitment to preserving the character of the historic district through City policy.

6/5/2019 Steve Goodwin, Resident


22 Stated his position against changing the character of the City’s historic core. Stated that concessions, such as step back provisions, are not sufficient, and reminded the Committee of the survey in which many people stated a preference for a height reduction to 35-45 feet in the Historic Downtown.

6/5/2019 Eugene Molinelli, Resident


23 Asked the Committee to preserve the historic district and character of the Downtown core and stated interest in compatible infill development, building height, and massing and asked the Committee to be thoughtful in considering the future of this area.



24 Stated that height restrictions are the most important thing for the community and asked the Committee to think strategically and long term. Also stated that more community conversations are needed before the public hearing.

6/5/2019 Lynn Forkell, Resident


25 Stated that if developers are willing to build in the Victorian or Colonial style, that would be preferred. However, if you don’t have developers willing to build in that style, the City should not turn others away.

6/5/2019 Ed Spall, Resident Land Use Comment acknowledged.

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Vision Summit Comments 18 of 46

2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdateVision Summit CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response

1 Get rid of demand charge on businesses 6/26/2019 N/A Community Facilities Comment acknowledged - Consideration of changes to electricity rate structure is generally outside the scope of the Comprehensive Plan and has been provided to the City Utility Department for further consideration.

2 Help neighbors promote their history and unique character 6/26/2019 N/A Parks, Recreation, & Culture

Comment addressed- PCR 9.2 addresses historic preservation.

3 Please keep baseball fields, we need more green space 6/26/2019 N/A Parks, Recreation, & Culture

Comment acknowledged - The parks level of service standards set goals for additional green space.

4 Leave the trees – important to our health, more green space 6/26/2019 N/A Environmental Sustainability & Health

Comment addressed - Green space and tree canopy is an important component of the Plan. Objective ESH 8.2 addresses tree canopy.

5 Wider sidewalks to accommodate pedestrians in both directions 6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment addressed - The Mobility Chapter recommends wider pedestrian zones as part of the complete street typology.

6 We need green space and a park near Prescott corridor 6/26/2019 N/A Parks, Recreation, & Culture

Comment addressed - Prescott corridor is within service area of new park at Annaburg Manor.

7 Mathis Avenue corridor redevelopment will need bus transit improvements 6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment addressed - MOB 6.1.3 recommends improving access to local transit services by supporting OmniRide initiatives. OmniRide is currently restructuring its local network and Mathis Avenue is designated as a bus route.

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8 Limit the height of buildings. New apartments at old Journal Messenger so out of character of Manassas.

6/26/2019 N/A Land Use Comment acknowledged - The draft Downtown Core design principles recommend that there should be no increase to the height or stories of contributing structures. In addition, the draft text specifies the incorporation of step backs when new buildings are taller than 130 percent of the prevailing building height. Staff does not recommend a goal to reduce Downtown building height via a zoning text amendment.

9 Holmes Heights need new street connectivity with any redevelopment 6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment addressed - The complete streets Map 6.2 includes new street connectivity within this area.

10 Attract small technology companies 6/26/2019 N/A Economic Development Comment addressed - The Godwin Technology character area is intended to strengthen the focus on technology companies.

11 Do not take down the forest at Stonewall Park 6/26/2019 N/A Parks, Recreation, & Culture

Comment addressed - While specific master plan decisions are outside the scope of this Plan, ESH 8.3 provides new strategies to protect natural open space and sensitive environmental areas.

12 Historic properties like Annaburg and Liberia should definitely be preserved and used for historic interest, green space and event centers

6/26/2019 N/A Parks, Recreation, & Culture

Comment addressed - PCR 9.2 addresses historic preservation and PCR 9.2.1 specifically identifies the need for a master plan for Annaburg.

13 Park at Portner (Annaburg) needs to be developed for public use – gardens, benches, fountain


Comment addressed - PCR 9.2 addresses historic preservation and PCR 9.2.1 specifically identifies the need for a master plan for Annaburg.

14 Improve viewscape between Liberia and Annaburg Manor 6/26/2019 N/A Land Use Comment addressed - Mathis Avenue revitalization is a core component of this plan. In addition, the City is developing a capital project to address the streetscape.

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15 Connect Winters Branch trail with Old Town and the landings at Cannon Branch despite nimbyism from some people

6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment acknowledged - The trail extension has been removed from this plan based on community input.

16 Add parking at the south end of Winters Branch Trail 6/26/2019 N/A Parks, Recreation, & Culture

Comment acknowledged - Comment has been provided to parks division for consideration in Dean Park capital project.

17 Greenways and trails should be considered very important to ensure the health of the community


Comment addressed - See PCR 9.5, which specifically addresses greenways and trails.

18 Install way finding signs on Winters Branch trail in 2019 not 2029! 6/26/2019 N/A Parks, Recreation, & Culture

Comment acknowledged - Comment has been provided to parks division for consideration in Dean Park capital project.

19 Please avoid using rubber crumb as padding on playgrounds. The mulch works well and it is not toxic


Comment acknowledged - Specific materials are outside of the scope of this Plan and have been provided to the Parks and Recreation Division for consideration.

20 Help renters learn how and make connections and plans to own their own place. Focus on non-English populations and those living in affordable housing.

6/26/2019 N/A Housing & Neighborhoods Comment addressed - HOU 4.4.4 identifies strategy to support homeownership.

21 Limit building height within Old Town. The current Messenger building does not fit the scale.


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22 City should be careful about too many tall (5 story buildings in the historic district) could lose the old town historic ambience.


23 Love the neighborhoods of Manassas! 6/26/2019 N/A Housing & Neighborhoods Comment acknowledged.

24 Real Affordable housing! Don’t care what they say, we do not have a lot of affordable housing

6/26/2019 N/A Housing & Neighborhoods Comment addressed - HOU 4.5 addresses housing balance, including affordable housing. HOU 4.5.2 identifies the need to explore an affordable dwelling unit ordinance.

25 Walkability 6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment acknowledged - Walkability is a key component of the Mobility plan.

26 Encourage community gardens 6/26/2019 N/A Parks, Recreation, & Culture

Comment addressed - PCR 9.1.11 addresses community gardens through partnerships.

27 We need senior living homes 6/26/2019 N/A Housing & Neighborhoods Comment addressed - HOU 4.5 addresses housing balance, including senior housing.

28 Consider accessory dwellings, granny flats, but enforce zoning laws 6/26/2019 N/A Housing & Neighborhoods Comment addressed - HOU 4.5.4 identifies the need to explore accessory dwelling opportunities.

29 Need more executive housing 6/26/2019 N/A Housing & Neighborhoods Comment addressed - HOU 4.5.3 addresses the need for higher end housing.

30 Senior housing 6/26/2019 N/A Housing & Neighborhoods Comment addressed - HOU 4.5 addresses housing balance, including senior housing.

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31 Some small businesses are struggling with high taxes and high electric demand charge

6/26/2019 N/A Economic Development Comment acknowledged - Consideration of changes to the tax or electricity rate structure is generally outside the scope of the Comprehensive Plan.

32 Need to provide better connection to the west portion of downtown, hard to cross the intersection of Grant and 28.

6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment addressed - MOB 6.2.4 addresses pedestrian connections within Downtown. The existing Capital Improvement Program Project T-021 on Grant Avenue will also address this issue.

33 Tourism – Old Town, stay in character and limit building height (i.e., Messenger)


34 Identify industries and businesses that attract Gen Xers and millennials and start building incubators in the less developed parts of Manassas, like Prince William St and Mathis Corridor

6/26/2019 N/A Economic Development Comment acknowledged - the ED chapter does not identify specific industries in order to remain adaptive to market conditions. ED 5.2 and 5.3 address business attraction and redevelopment.

35 Keep government functions/offices centrally located 6/26/2019 N/A Community Facilities Comment acknowledged.36 At home workers have increased over the decade but little attention,

services, focus on them – need to grow. Means less demand on roads.6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment addressed - MOB 6.5.3 addresses

telecommuting.

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37 Need community centers to attract teens etc. 6/26/2019 N/A Parks, Recreation, & Culture

Comment acknowledged - CFI 7.1.2 recommends new community spaces in all public facilities but a community center is not specifically recommended. Community space is also proposed as part of the museum expansion referenced in PCR 9.6.2.

38 Activities for all ages 6/26/2019 N/A Parks, Recreation, & Culture

Comment addressed - PCR goal includes "opportunities for residents of all ages and abilities"

39 Look at city owned fiber optic internet network as part of utilities to incentivize tech business and local information via internet

6/26/2019 N/A Community Facilities Comment acknowledged - CFI 7.6 recommends implementing new technology to remain competitive and connected but does not specifically call for a city owned fiber optic network.

40 Would like to see a composting facility for yard waste 6/26/2019 N/A Community Facilities Comment addressed - Composting added to CFI 7.5.1.

41 More benches to rest for walkers within the City 6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment addressed - MOB 6.2.2 addresses pedestrian comfort by providing street furniture.

42 Would like to see some traffic circles or roundabouts at for instance Centreville Road at Sudley and Prescott

6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment addressed - The proposed roundabout at Centerville Road and Sudley Road is included as project #5 in Table 6.1 of the Mobility Chapter.

43 Need to enforce speed limits and other traffic issues. I feel unsafe walking or biking because of the numerous times I have almost been hit!

6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment addressed - MOB 6.1.6 recommends updating and adopting a revised traffic calming policy.

44 Bus+Rail 6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment addressed - MOB 6.1.3 recommends improving access to regional and local transit services by supporting the expansion of OmniRide and VRE.

45 More frequency bus schedule 6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment addressed - MOB 6.1.3 recommends improving access to regional and local transit services by supporting the expansion of OmniRide and VRE.

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46 Crossing to Annaburg walking 6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment addressed - MOB 6.2.4 addresses pedestrian connections between the Downtown and the Mathis Avenue character area. The existing Capital Improvement Program sidewalk infill project on Portner Avenue (T-058) will also address this issue.

47 Extend Winters Branch on both ends 6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment acknowledged - The trail extension has been removed from this plan based on community input.

48 Put more pedestrian trails that lead from/to neighborhoods and downtown 6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment addressed - MOB 6.2.4 and 6.2.5 address pedestrian connections to Downtown and neighborhoods.

49 Connect airport with trails 6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment addressed - Map 6.3 in the Mobility Chapter shows future bike connections to the airport.

50 Biking and walking space should be retrofitted in where possible. Also important – local bus system. Some existing crosswalks are not in the best places (on Prescott at Charry and Quarry)

6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comments addressed - The Mobility Chapter includes a complete street typology guide to ensure safety and comfort for all users. MOB 6.1.3 recommends improving access to local transit services by supporting OmniRide initiatives. OmniRide is currently restructuring its local network. MOB 6.2.6 recommends developing and implementing a crosswalk policy.

51 More access to busses for short routes 6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment addressed - MOB 6.1.3 recommends improving access to local transit services by supporting OmniRide initiatives. OmniRide is currently restructuring its local network.

52 Safe walkways for pedestrians 6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment addressed - The Mobility Chapter includes a complete street typology guide to ensure safety and comfort for all users.

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53 Wider walkways (increase) for pedestrians and carriages 6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment addressed - The Mobility Chapter recommends wider pedestrian zones as part of the complete street typology.

54 Need more local public transportation, better advertisement, and more frequent. Also handicapped accessible.

6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment addressed - MOB 6.1.3 recommends improving access to local transit services by supporting OmniRide initiatives. OmniRide is currently restructuring its local network.

55 Reassess the “service road” in front of the post office 6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment acknowledged.56 Lucasville and Godwin intersection needs to be improved, present danger of

accidents. Lucasville needs to be expanded on that side6/26/2019 N/A Mobility Comment addressed - Map 6.4 of the

Mobility Chapter identifies the need for safety improvements at the Lucasville Road and Hastings Drive intersection.

57 City could use a facility for composting yard waste and promoting native plantings

6/26/2019 N/A Environmental Sustainability & Health

Comment addressed - ESH 8.2.5 and 8.2.6 address native plants.

58 Plan for the next generation of recycling 6/26/2019 N/A Community Facilities Comment addressed - CFI 7.5 addresses waste management and recycling.

59 Establish wild life habitats 6/26/2019 N/A Environmental Sustainability & Health

Comment addressed - ESH 8.2.6 and PCR 9.5 address wildlife habitat.

60 Focus on native plants - less care, less water, and better for the environment 6/26/2019 N/A Environmental Sustainability & Health

Comment addressed - ESH 8.2.5 and 8.2.6 address native plants.

61 Waste management and sustainable cost-effective recycling should be included

6/26/2019 N/A Community Facilities Comment addressed - CFI 7.5 addresses waste management and recycling.

62 Organic agriculture 6/26/2019 N/A Land Use Comment acknowledged.63 City needs a comprehensive, strategic, and measurable energy plan 6/26/2019 N/A Environmental

Sustainability & HealthComment addressed - ESH 8.1.1 identifies the need for a comprehensive sustainability plan.

64 The plan should include some positive direction for the use of solar energy by residents, commercial business and local government

6/26/2019 N/A Environmental Sustainability & Health

Comment addressed - ESH 8.5.2 and 8.5.4 recommend resources and incentives to improve energy efficiency and renewable energy.

65 Tax incentives for energy efficiency (HVAC, water heater, etc.) 6/26/2019 N/A Environmental Sustainability & Health

Comment addressed - ESH 8.5.2 and 8.5.4 recommend resources and incentives to improve energy efficiency and renewable energy.

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Written Commission Comments 26 of 46

2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdatePlanning Commission Written CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response

1 Goal statements should be more specific and should directly map to plan objectives. Objectives should, in turn map to specific tasks. I think it is important for us to be able to relate any tasks that come out of the plan back to a specific objective and each objective should relate to a specific goal or part of a goal. I have trouble comprehending how we will know when we have reached the goal where "Manassas neighborhoods will be celebrated".

2/11/2019 Ken Johnson Vision Comment addressed - See revised goal statements.

2 Goal statements should also be very positive. For example, the land use goal statement "Manassas will retain its character and charm …" does not inspire. I think it should be recast in terms of "preserving" and "protecting" Manassas' character, charm, identity, or something similar.

2/11/2019 Ken Johnson Vision Comment addressed - See revised goal statements.

3 I think the plan should identify "Cross-over issues" such as the role of education in economic development and the role of "mobility" in fostering connectedness among our neighborhoods.

2/11/2019 Ken Johnson Vision Comment addressed - See final plan themes that identify crossover issues.

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4 Land Use - While focusing on residential and commercial uses is important, I think the plan could do more to address issues relating to the role of industry in the City. I think we missed the boat on this in the current plan. I think we need a forward looking vision of modern industry and R&D uses that will encourage high-paying jobs and opportunities for our citizens. We should be able to answer questions such as: What is the future of industrial land uses in the City? Is there a better balance with other commercial uses such as retail and office space? What changes should we consider to our existing character areas and zoning ordinances in order to encourage higher value added industry? Are we making the best use of our I1, I2, and IA land? See the comment about Quarry Rd/Euclid Ave on p A.4 of the "Conversations" report. Would a single set of industrial district ordinances provide more flexibility, make it easier to adapt to market changes? Should we focus on City sectors that encourage a specific type of industrial use--Sudley--medical research and related technologies; Airport--Aviation/transit technologies, Others? Or would doing so be too restrictive? Among other issues, I think we should take into account the future of retail and office space in the City. What land uses offer the best opportunities for balanced growth?

2/11/2019 Ken Johnson Land Use Comment addressed - See the proposed "Godwin Technology Corridor" character area, the revised Heavy Commercial/Suburban Business character area (formerly Industrial/Suburban Business), and new definitions for "Heavy Commercial" and "Research and Development". The Godwin Technology character area captures the vision for a high-value, technology focused employment center at the City’s western gateway. Design principles are based on former Industrial/Suburban Business Area, with added prohibition on heavy commercial uses and outdoor display, sales, and storage.

5 Housing and Neighborhoods - We should recognize neighborhoods are the bedrock of the City and should emphasize they foster a sense of community among diverse groups. This means we need to offer a diverse and sustainable mix of housing choices. We also need to invest in neighborhood quality--regardless of property values. Questions include: Is there a proper mix of diverse "affordable" and "quality" housing for Manassas? Is the City's residential market large enough to sustain such a mix--or should we also look to the County or Manassas Park? Are we "trapped" by the age of the housing stock or does redevelopment offer opportunities to broaden the mix? If so, what tools do we need to encourage a more balanced mix?

2/11/2019 Ken Johnson Housing & Neighborhoods Comment addressed - Objective HOU 4.3 addresses investment in neighborhoods through grants and public improvements. Objective HOU 4.5 and supporting strategies address a balanced housing stock. See Housing Plan for more details.

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6 Economic Development - I think goal should be recast a bit to focus on the City as business friendly, interested in promoting corporate investment. We've had success recently--What can we do to capitalize on this success? Here I think we could focus on what makes Manassas unique in terms of economic development--such as small town atmosphere, close-nit community of business and government leaders. How can we preserve these unique characteristics.

2/11/2019 Ken Johnson Economic Development Comment addressed - See revised goal.

7 Mobility - I will hold off until we see the transportation plan, but I think we should cast the goals in terms of promoting access and connectivity of all transportation modes. How can we break down barriers to connectedness? I think one way is by reviewing and improving design standards.

2/11/2019 Ken Johnson Mobility Comment addressed - See revised goal.

8 I've begun looking at the comp plans for Leesburg, Winchester, Lynchburg, and Fredericksburg. I like some of the things Leesburg and Winchester say about industrial uses. Chapter 7 of the Winchester plan has some ideas regarding gentrification, incentives for rehabilitation.

2/11/2019 Ken Johnson Land Use Comment addressed - See new "Heavy Commercial" and "Research and Development" definitions.

9 Mentioning the Winter's Branch extension, particularly regarding the Jefferson/School neighborhood will very likely generate a lot of criticism and may undermine the credibility of the whole effort. For many in this neighborhood, this issue was settled years ago--there will not be a Winter's branch extension through their back yards. The compromise was to include a bike lane on the new Prince William Street. I recommend we drop this point.

3/3/2019 Ken Johnson Land Use / Mobility Comment addressed - The Winters Branch trail extension has been removed from the plan.

10 Neighborhood descriptions - Some minor points that should be fixed: -- The description includes a neighborhood named the "Madison Avenue and Wall Street Residential Neighborhood." I don't believe there is a "Wall" street. -- Another neighborhood is "Quarry Street and Prescott Avenue Neighborhood"--it should be "Quarry Road." This area includes I-1-Heavy Industry.-- Is there a description for the "Grant Avenue North Neighborhood"? I can't seem to find it.

3/3/2019 Ken Johnson Land Use Comment acknowledged - Information provided for reference purposes only and not intended for use in the final plan.

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2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdatePlanning Commission Written CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response11 Heavy Commercial/ Suburban Business - I came across this objective in the

Leesburg comp plan (p. 6-12, #4) and think the highlighted portion may be worth considering in the character area description for Heavy Commercial/Suburban Business areas. Objective 4. New industrial, auto dealership, auto-related, and auto service uses are not appropriate in the Central Planning Area although existing uses can be expanded or updated if the land area is not increased. Small scale, clean, high product value industrial uses such as microbreweries, coffee roasters, and printers that do not have significant noise, emissions, lighting, or outdoor storage areas that will generate low truck traffic may be allowed. When located adjacent to residential areas, these uses must be appropriately mitigated through setbacks, vegetative buffering or site design. These uses should be integrated into an urban scale mixed use community.

3/14/2019 Ken Johnson Land Use Comment addressed - See revised Godwin Technology character area and revised Heavy Commercial/Suburban Business character area.

12 Land Use Objectives - I like the format and structure. I would like to see some more objective-oriented strategies for LU1, LU2, and possibly LU4. I don't have any good ideas, perhaps we can discuss. I like the strategies outlined for LU3 and LU5.

3/24/2019 Ken Johnson Land Use Comment addressed - See revised strategies.

13 Land Uses - After comparing the definitions of land uses with the character areas, it seems "General Mixed Use" is really vague--it seems as some sort of catch-all. None of the character areas include this use so far--will it be included in Mathis or Downtown? My thought, is that it may not be needed, it seems to me the other definitions cover it and are more precise.

3/24/2019 Ken Johnson Land Use Comment addressed - "General Mixed Use" land use definition has been removed from the draft plan.

14 Character Area Descriptions - Page 6: "Neighborhood Business, General Business, and Heavy Commercial/Suburban Business": I am not clear we want to characterize these as areas where the "existing character is unclear, transitional, or inconsistent …." Perhaps it would be better to recognize these as "established commercial areas that offer ample development/redevelopment opportunities in keeping with evolving, modernized commerce." I'm not wedded to that wording, I'm sure there is a better way to convey the thought.

3/24/2019 Ken Johnson Land Use Comment addressed - See revised description.

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2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdatePlanning Commission Written CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response15 Land Use Strategies - Page 9, second bullet--"modern amenities": I'm not

sure what these are, and I think we use the phrase a few times. Should we describe/provide some examples the first time the phrase is used?

3/24/2019 Ken Johnson Land Use Comment acknowledged - Recommend no change to wording to allow interpretation and creativity based on location and market demands. Modern amenities may refer to shared interior amenities (such as community rooms, game rooms, gyms, sports courts, bike storage and repair stations), outdoor amenities (such as pools, dog runs, gas fired grilles, fire pits), and technology upgrades (such as wifi, USB wall outlets, Bluetooth wall speakers, etc).

16 Land Use Strategies - Page 9, sixth bullet: Insert "to" between "possible" and "improve."

3/24/2019 Ken Johnson Land Use Comment addressed - See revised strategy.

17 Land Use Strategies - Page 9, fifth bullet under "Buildings": Should we be stronger on this point? Rather than "not recommended" should we use "discouraged"?


18 Land Use Strategies - Page 20, twelfth bullet: "enhanced access management principles" seems vague and most readers may not know what we are talking about. Can we briefly include examples of what such principles include?

3/24/2019 Ken Johnson Land Use Comment addressed - See revised MOB 6.3.7 for examples of access management strategies.

19 Land Use Strategies - Page 22, fifth bullet under "General": I know we include accessibility as a focus priority, but think we should also mention it under "General"; suggest inserting "and accessibility are primary concerns" after "Pedestrian safety."


20 Land Use Strategies - Page 22, first bullet under "Sites": Do you mean "reduce impervious area"?


21 Land Use Strategies - Pages 23 and 26, Appropriate uses: the lists of uses for Godwin and Airport include "Warehouse/Manufacturing/ Distribution" but the land use definitions and other character areas refer to "Manufacturing/ Wholesale/Distribution."

3/24/2019 Ken Johnson Land Use Comment addressed - See revised list of appropriate uses.

22 Land Use Strategies - Page 23, Focus Priorities: While we mention energy efficiency and sustainable development, should we also require that hazardous materials be processed using environmentally sound processes?

3/24/2019 Ken Johnson Land Use Comment addressed - See revised focus priorities (addressed in both Heavy Commercial/Suburban Business and Godwin Technology Corridor)

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2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdatePlanning Commission Written CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response23 Land Use Strategies - Page 27: It appears the section on "Gateways and

Corridors" is not complete--at least on my copy. I assume there will be a section on "Appropriate Uses".

3/24/2019 Ken Johnson Land Use Comment acknowledged - A list of appropriate uses is not included, as the appropriate uses are determined by the underlying character area.

24 Downtown Neighborhoods - I want to be on the record expressing my concern for the two contributing houses beside me which were rezoned for office use and now sit empty as well as the empty lots beside them where a fire took out another contributing house after the owners were denied permission to tear it down and the lot beside it where a contributing house was torn down using demotion by neglect. Beside that lot the corner has commercial buildings that don't add much that sit across from the old courthouse--one of the most significant historic buildings in the city and the county. My house has the distinction of having hosted President Taft after his speech at the Peace Jubilee in 1911. Also, near the corner of Grant and Lee is the old white clapboard church that was built on land donated to the city by George Round for the express purpose of building a church. It is now owned by Lacey Compton and is in very bad condition. Beyond that is the Pierce funeral home area and a lot with a swimming pool that has been filled in with dirt. Overall a really sad looking area but a very important historical location. I think we need to be very thoughtful about what happens there and I am sorry I probably won't be around for the meeting on it. Of course I would very much like to see the two contributing residences to the south of me returned to residential and be preserved and prevented from suffering further neglect. Let's don't allow developers to further chip away at the city's showcase residential street.

3/27/2019 Martha Wilson Land Use Comment addressed - The contributing houses referenced in the comment are located outside of the proposed Downtown Core. Traditional Neighborhoods principles apply. It should be noted, however, that the Traditional Neighborhood character area does allow some limited business uses.

25 Mobility Key Issues - What does 'Enhanced connectivity is required at the small, medium, and large scales' mean?

4/12/2019 Ken Johnson Mobility Comment addressed - See revised Key Issues document.

26 Mobility Strategies - I would like to see a stronger statement of the objective MOB 6.2. I guess I am troubled by the use of the words "Develop" and "provides." In MOB 6.1 and MOB 6.3, we say we will "Maximize," yet here we only intend to "Develop" and "provide." I don't have any suggested changes at this time though.

4/12/2019 Ken Johnson Mobility Comment addressed - See revised Objective MOB 6.2.

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2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdatePlanning Commission Written CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response27 Mobility Strategies - I am particularly concerned about the treatment of

intersections and their design standards in the "Objectives and Strategies" section. The design of many of the City's intersections puzzles me--the lack of crosswalks at some intersections, only three crosswalks for the box at others, for example--and I think more marked intersections are needed, particularly in our neighborhoods want to emphasize safety and promote connectedness between neighborhoods. I think that many of the barriers to access and safety for pedestrians/bikers occur at intersections. My understanding is that current--well-intentioned--design standards often preclude making improvements to intersections that would help mitigate these issues. These standards, moreover, seem to be based on auto traffic volume, not pedestrian/biker needs.

4/12/2019 Ken Johnson Mobility Comment addressed - See revised Strategy MOB 6.2.6.

28 Mobility Strategies - Make MOB 6.2.4 stronger. Again, I think "Develop" is too weak. Perhaps we can say something like "Update and improve crosswalk policies and design standards to provide … neighborhoods and promote greater pedestrian access and safety."

4/12/2019 Ken Johnson Mobility Comment addressed - See revised Strategy 6.2.6. Please note the verb "Develop" is used as the City does not currently have any crosswalk policy and a policy will be developed based on the Transportation Master Plan recommendations.

29 Mobility Strategies - Make sure MOB 6.2.1. relates to MOB 6.2.4: I like the "complete streets" typology, but the cross sections only apply to the streets. What happens at the intersections where these streets meet? Are there examples for the various typologies (urban, mixed use, etc.) showing intersection designs (pedestrian crosswalks, turn lanes for bikers, pedestrian signaling)? For example, what happens, from a design standpoint, when a "Neighborhood Street" intersects with a "Neighborhood Connector Street."?

4/12/2019 Ken Johnson Mobility Comment addressed - The treatment of intersections will follow through the development of intersection standards referenced in Strategies MOB 6.2.6 and MOB 6.3.2.

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2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdatePlanning Commission Written CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response30 Mobility Strategies - Tie into MOB 6.3.2: This strategy does not specifically

call out intersections--if we want to make these typologies the basis for design standards, we should include intersections. Can this be revised to make sure these new design standards also include intersections? This strategy seems redundant to 6.2.4, but I am not sure we should combine them.

4/12/2019 Ken Johnson Mobility Comment addressed - See revised Strategies MOB 6.2.6 and MOB 6.3.2.

31 Level of Service - I also have a more general question about the LOS standards used in the presentation. These only apply to vehicular traffic. Are there standards that also include pedestrian/bike traffic? For example, the intersection at Prince William Parkway/Liberia Ave/Wellington LOS in 2040 is listed as F. This is also the connection between the Wellington Rd bikeway and the Prince William Parkway bikeway. It seems to me, the proposed improvement will not affect bike traffic, but if other solutions are considered, will they consider the impacts on bikers? What is the tradeoff between vehicular LOS and LOS for pedestrians/bikers? I think recommendations for intersection improvements, particularly along existing or planned bike routes should explicitly account for the impacts on pedestrians/bikers.

4/12/2019 Ken Johnson Mobility LOS Response - See revised Strategy MOB 6.3.3.

Intersection comment addressed - See revised Strategy MOB 6.2.6 and MOB 6.3.2.

32 Prince William Street - What’s the plan on Prince William St? I know the city is in the process of fixing the street, but I think the maps you provided list it as a Urban Street (it is a little hard to tell, as some of the colors are very similar.). The street is currently too narrow to take on much additional traffic, and needs proper sidewalks to accommodate pedestrian traffic. Is there a plan to widen the PW street as we fix it? Are we adding proper sidewalks?

4/24/2019 Russ Harrison Mobility Comment acknowledged - On the typology map of the Transportation Master Plan, Prince William Street is identified as a Mixed Use Street which recommends a similar cross-section to what is under construction as part of the existing CIP project.

33 Traffic Circle - I am concerned that increases in traffic could regularly gum up the thing. Traffic lights may be inefficient, but they work reliably. Traffic circles work up to a point (assuming drivers know how to use them) but if you exceed their capacity, can become a nightmare. I’m also concerned about pedestrian traffic and the cost.

4/24/2019 Russ Harrison Mobility Comment acknowledged - Traffic circles have been proven to be safer for pedestrians, and VDOT recommends that roundabouts be considered when constructing or reconstructing a signalized or an unsignalized intersection and that they should be the preferred alternative if a study shows that they are feasible.

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2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdatePlanning Commission Written CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response34 Passive / Active voice should be consistent across Key Issues. 5/1/2019 Russ Harrison Economic Development Comment acknowledged - This comment

will be addressed to ensure consistency between chapters in future drafts.

35 Objective ED 5.3 - Define "underutilized" 5/1/2019 Russ Harrison Economic Development Comment acknowledged - See strategies and character area descriptions that identify areas to be developed or redeveloped.

36 Economic Development - Consider targeted industries or prioritizing types of companies.

5/1/2019 Russ Harrison Economic Development Comment acknowledged - As discussed during the 5/1 meeting, Economic Development does not recommend setting a targeted list of industries. The introductory text highlights key strengths and assets.

37 Objective ED 5.4 - The City has limited capability to influence workforce development outside of K-12.

5/1/2019 Russ Harrison Economic Development Comment addressed - See new Strategy ED 5.4.3.

38 Strategy ED 5.4.1 - How will the City support the school system to promote economic development.

5/1/2019 Russ Harrison Economic Development Comment addressed - See revised Strategies ED 5.4.1 and ED 5.4.3.

39 Strategy 7.4.3 - address the need to upgrade lines in order to reduce loss during transmission and increase system redundancy.

5/12/2019 Ken Johnson Community Facilities Comment addressed - See revised Strategy CFI 7.4.3.

40 Strategy 7.4.5 - include the recommendation to encourage industrial users to provide on-site treatment or other measures to reduce sewer impacts.

5/12/2019 Ken Johnson Community Facilities Comment addressed - See revised Strategy CFI 7.4.6.

41 Strategy 7.4.8 - address the need to develop creative and cost-effective strategies for implementing best management practices aimed at achieving or exceeding required pollutant load reductions. Develop a priority ranking system for stormwater sewer infrastructure replacement and rehabilitation.

5/12/2019 Ken Johnson Community Facilities Comment addressed - See revised Strategy CFI 7.4.7. See also Objective ESH 8.4.

42 We have nearly identical bullet points in the "Downtown Core Sites" section (page 14) and the "Downtown Core Buildings" section (page 14 and 15). The fifth bullet under "Core Sites" and the last bullet under "Core Buildings" both deal with "Overhead Pedestrian Protections." The bullet under "Core Buildings, on page 15, includes the words "Awnings and other ..." I think you ought to add this to the "Core Sites" section. It was not immediately apparent to me what an "overhead pedestrian protection" is, but mentioning awnings first makes it much more clear.

6/6/2019 Russ Harrison Land Use Comment addressed - See revised design principles.

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2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdatePlanning Commission Written CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response43 Provided editorial comments on the land use chapter. Broader identified

included: ensuring land use definitions align with the zoning land use definitions, consideration of transition areas, the elimination of national chains in the downtown, consideration of the E.G. Smith ballfields, and renaming the Sudley medical area. See email dated 7/5/19.

7/5/2019 Russ Harrison Land Use Comments addressed as appropriate. Note E.G. Smith ballfields are addressed under Chapter 9 (Parks, Culture, and Recreation) and not in the land use chapter.

44 Provided editorial comments. See email dated 7/7/19. 7/5/2019 Russ Harrison Housing & Neighborhoods Comments addressed as appropriate.45 Provided editorial comments and recommended a strategy to address

alternative education paths.7/5/2019 Russ Harrison Economic Development Comments addressed as appropriate.

46 Provided editorial comments. See email dated 7/7/19. 7/7/2019 Russ Harrison Community Facilities Comments addressed as appropriate.47 Identified policy concerns regarding the design principles for

hospital/sudley character area.7/8/2019 Ken Johnson Land Use Comments were addressed during

Committee worksession on 8/21/19.48 Provided editorial comments on all chapters. Recommended new mobility

strategy to address maintenance. See email dated 7/14/19.7/14/2019 Ken Johnson All Chapters Comments addressed as appropriate.

49 Provided an editorial comment on the chapter goal. See email dated 7/15/19.

7/15/2019 Russ Harrison Mobility Comment addressed - See revised goal.

50 Provided editorial comments on the chapter. See email dated 7/16/19. 7/16/2019 Russ Harrison Parks, Recreation, & Culture Comments addressed as appropriate.

51 Provided editorial comments on the chapter and expressed concern that the section does not recognize the limitations of environmentally friendly policies. See email dated 7/16/19 for more detail.

7/16/2019 Russ Harrison Environment Comments addressed as appropriate.

52 Recommended additional language to Parks, Recreation, and Culture introduction to identify benefits of parks.

8/28/2019 Ken Johnson Parks, Recreation, & Culture Comment addressed - See revised introduction.

53 Editorial change to the last paragraph of the Community Facilities introduction to read: "By implementing these proposed strategies and LOS standards, Manassas will provide facilities and services that are accessible and responsive to the fullest range of community needs in a fiscally responsive manner."

8/28/2019 Ken Johnson Community Facilities Comment addressed - See revised introduction.

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2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdatePlanning Commission Written CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response54 Chapter 1, Introduction, Who Uses the Plan?

Recommended businesses be included as a stakeholder.9/15/2019 Ken Johnson Introduction

Comment addressed - See revised chapter.

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Suggested a brief textbox describing the HEAL initiative. 9/15/2019 Ken Johnson Environment

Comment addressed - HEAL acronym is defined and link to the heal initiative is included.

56Ch. 1 first para, second sentence--delete "on" following "City Council." 9/15/2019 Ken Johnson Introduction

Comment addressed - See revised chapter.

57 Ch. 4, third para, final sentence--change "housing cost burden" to "housing cost burdens." 9/15/2019 Ken Johnson Housing & Neighborhoods

Comment addressed - see revised chapter.

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Commission Discussion Comments 37 of 46

2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdateComprehensive Plan Committee Meeting Discussion CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response

1 The Committee provided guidance on goals and key issues to be considered as staff prepares draft goals, objectives, and strategies. See meeting notes for additional details.

2/13/2019 PC Key Issues Comments acknowledged and incorporated into draft chapters.

2 The Committee provided guidance on Downtown design principles and character as part of the citizen workshop. See meeting notes for additional details.

3/6/2019 PC Land Use Comments acknowledged and incorporated into draft Downtown character area.

3 The Committee requested revised definitions to address industrial, heavy commercial, and technology/research uses.

2/27/2019 PC Land Use Comments addressed - See new land use definitions for "Heavy Commercial", "Research and Development" and "Manufacturing/Wholesale/Distribution".

4 The Committee provided policy guidance on these areas and supported a new technology-focused character area encompassing portions of the western Industrial/Suburban Business area and Manassas Landing.

2/27/2019 PC Land Use Comments acknowledged and incorporated into draft chapters.

5 The Committee suggested the addition of the word “medical” to the “Research and Development” definition.

3/20/2019 PC Land Use Comment addressed - See revised definition.

6 The Committee requested adding office and retail to the list of permitted uses and provided guidance on land use and transitions within the Mathis area.

3/20/2019 PC Land Use - Mathis Comments addressed - Office and Retail/Service were added as appropriate land uses in the Mathis character area.

7 Renters experience the highest cost burden. What are potential approaches for addressing this?

3/27/2019 PC Housing & Neighborhoods Comment acknowledged - The Housing and Neighborhoods section provide a variety of ways to address renter cost burden, including supply (HOU 4.5.1), affordability (HOU 4.5.2), and unit type (HOU 4.5.4).

8 Emphasize open space amenities within new residential development, particularly in areas of increasing density. A community center was also noted as a need.

3/27/2019 PC Housing & Neighborhoods Comment addressed - See revised Strategy HOU 4.1.3.

9 Focus on schools as centers of neighborhoods and community, while recognizing that encouraging participation in schools is outside the scope of the Comprehensive Plan.


10 Consider ways to support creation of neighborhood organizations, such as a how-to guide for creating a civic association and identifying opportunities for partnerships with local organizations.


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2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdateComprehensive Plan Committee Meeting Discussion CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response11 Consider ways to provide “missing middle” housing, while recognizing that

accessory dwelling units may present additional challenges that require further investigation and consideration of appropriate location and context.


12 The Commission asked how was the 25% of traffic use assumption made for the proposed connection at the Prince William Pkwy/Liberia Ave/Wellington Road and if there was any on-going coordination with PWC to improve this intersection.

4/10/2019 PC Mobility Comment acknowledged and addressed during the meeting.

13 The Commission asked a clarifying question regarding the project limits for the Godwin widening proposed improvements.

4/10/2019 PC Mobility Comment acknowledged and addressed during the meeting.

14 The Commission stated that the City should strive for LOS C and D but not LOS E.

4/10/2019 PC Mobility Comment acknowledged - Previously addressed in Strategy MOB 6.3.3.

15 Commissioner Thompson asked how safety was considered as part of the plan.

4/24/2019 PC Mobility Comment addressed - Safety was an important consideration in the development of the plan. Safety was added to the following strategies: MOB 6.3.1, and 6.3.2. Also previously addressed in MOB 6.2.1, 6.2.2, 6.2.5, 6.4, and 6.4.3.

16 The Commission commented that the proposed Complete Streets Typology does not address the convergence of different travel modes at intersections. Intersection design standards are needed that provide increased safety and access for all modes. Staff clarified that development of intersection standards is a recommended implementation strategy and will note this specifically in the mobility strategies (MOB 6.3.2).

4/24/2019 PC Mobility Comment addressed - See revised Strategy MOB 6.3.2.

17 The Commission asked for clarification between the bike plan and the typology map.

4/24/2019 PC Mobility Comment acknowledged - Staff clarified that the typology map is the long-term aspiration for the street network. The bike plan is the constrained plan and considers the typology, while also taking into account physical constraints and prioritizing improvements.

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2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdateComprehensive Plan Committee Meeting Discussion CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response18 Consider the impact of autonomous vehicles and whether we need to begin

planning for this technology.4/24/2019 PC Mobility Comment addressed - See new Strategy MOB

6.2.9.19 Consider ways to encourage electric vehicles by developing electric vehicle

charging station policies or requiring them in proffered redevelopment.4/24/2019 PC Mobility Comment addressed - See new Strategy MOB

6.5.2. See also ESH 8.5.6.

20 Address the need for expanded bicycle parking facilities across the City. 4/24/2019 PC Mobility Comment addressed - See new Strategy MOB 6.2.8.

21 Revise the overarching goal to address the need to balance all modes. 4/24/2019 PC Mobility Comment addressed - See revised goal.

22 Reorganize the strategy for comprehensive parking policies to list “residents” first (MOB 6.2.6).

4/24/2019 PC Mobility Comment addressed - See revised MOB 6.2.10.

23 Create high-end housing (potentially LEED Buildings) with access to high-tech and eco-friendly amenities, such as bike share and charging stations, to attract tech-savvy, environmentally conscious residents to the Mathis area.

4/24/2019 PC Land Use Comment addressed - See revised focus priorities and building design principles.

24 Consider using investment in a public facility within the Mathis area. Mathis could be a good location for a community center, such as a library or community center.

4/24/2019 PC Land Use Comment addressed - A general land use strategy has been added to this effect.

25 Address buffer and transition areas from the high density core to the Liberia Plantation House and Annaburg estate.

4/24/2019 PC Land Use Comment addressed - See revised Mathis general strategy for Liberia House. Development surrounding Annaburg Manor is addressed through the Downtown focus priorities and design principles.

26 Consider what incentives are needed to catalyze redevelopment in the Mathis area

4/24/2019 PC Land Use Comment addressed - See Map 5.1 for incentive areas and reference to choosemanassas.org for more information.

27 The Commission commented that the objectives and strategies are vague and not very aspirational.

5/1/2019 PC Economic Development Comment acknowledged - The Economic Development Strategic Plan provides a detailed approach for City Economic Development policy.

28 The Commission stated that Objective 5.1. should highlight Manassas as a safe, well-educated community that provides a special sense of place.

5/1/2019 PC Economic Development Comment addressed - See revised Objective ED 5.1.

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2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdateComprehensive Plan Committee Meeting Discussion CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response29 The Commission questioned how the incentives offered by the City compare

to others in the region.5/1/2019 PC Economic Development Comment acknowledged - During the

meeting, staff explained the incentives offered are very competitive in Northern Virginia with an expected 3-5 year return on investment.

30 The Commission commented on the importance of schools to economic development and discussed ways the City can support, expand, and promote existing resources.

5/1/2019 PC Economic Development Comment addressed - See revised strategies under Objective ED 5.4.

31 The Commission questioned whether Manassas should specialize in any specific industries and discussed what those might be. The discussion included government contracting, legal services, medical, and supporting businesses to existing industrial users, such as Aurora and Micron.

5/1/2019 PC Economic Development Comment acknowledged - During the meeting, staff explained that the Economic Development Dept. does not target specific industries because Manassas welcomes diverse businesses and we are small enough to understand our market niche without a targeted industry study.

32 The Commission suggested that the strategies under Objective 5.3 should note the courthouse and associated legal services as an asset to continue to support and grow.

5/1/2019 PC Economic Development Comment addressed - See revised Strategy ED 5.3.4.

33 The Commission questioned what attracted Micron to expand in Manassas and commented that those characteristics should be highlighted in the Comprehensive Plan. Mr. Small stated that key characteristics included the quality of water from Lake Manassas, the airport, the community college, and high level of productivity from the existing Micron plant in Manassas.

5/1/2019 PC Economic Development Comment acknowledged - To be addressed in the chapter introduction.

34 The general Community Facilities strategies should state that public facility design should conform to character area design principles.

5/5/2019 PC Community Facilities Comment addressed - See revised Strategy CFI 7.1.3.

35 The Community Facilities strategies should note that surplus land and facilities should be evaluated to the best public use. For example, the K-9 area behind the police station that could be considered for park purposes, such as a downtown dog park.

5/5/2019 PC Community Facilities Comment addressed - See new Strategy CFI 7.1.9.

36 Strategy 7.1.4 should be reorganized, as it is applicable to administrative services.

5/5/2019 PC Community Facilities Comment addressed - This strategy was moved to Strategy CFI 7.1.1 and revised for clarity.

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2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdateComprehensive Plan Committee Meeting Discussion CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response37 The City needs to begin planning to replace Fire Station #1. Ultimately, three

stations are needed to meet the established level of service goals. Strategy 7.3.4 should clarify that a study is needed to determine the optimal location for a third fire station.


38 City fire and rescue staff is trained in basic hazardous materials response but rely on mutual aid partners for more advanced support. The strategies should acknowledge mutual aid partners and recognize their critical support for hazardous material incidents.


39 The City recently acquired an Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) unit to enhance response at the Manassas Regional Airport. The ARFF is not staffed, but staff is trained to be able to use the equipment should an event occur. The Comprehensive Plan strategies should articulate the importance of fire and rescue facilities at the airport and the need to continue seeking resources and partnerships to support the Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) unit.


40 Upon completion of the public safety facility, the existing police headquarters will be repurposed for city or school office space.


41 The Commission recommended changes to strengthen the Comprehensive Plan strategies for schools, including strategies to: support the Dean replacement and additions of permanent classroom facilities; provide permanent central office facilities; and provide flexible CTE facilities that will prepare students for jobs that do not exist today.

5/5/2019 PC Community Facilities Comment addressed - See the following revised strategies: CFI 7.2.2, 7.2.3, and 7.1.1.

42 Commission members suggested the use of land-efficient stormwater management measures, such as underground detention facilities, to conserve space.


43 The Community Facilities chapter introduction should explain that the general principles should be applied as appropriate to all city facilities.

5/5/2019 PC Community Facilities Comment acknowledged - To be addressed in the chapter introduction.

44 Stormwater facilities offer opportunities to retrofit and use for open space. 5/22/2019 PC Parks, Recreation & Culture

Comment acknowledged - Previously addressed through PCR 9.1.7.

45 Expanding the use of school facilities is important, for example the track at Osbourn High School.

5/22/2019 PC Parks, Recreation & Culture

Comment acknowledged - Previously addressed through PCR 9.1.8.

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2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdateComprehensive Plan Committee Meeting Discussion CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response46 The area behind the police station represents vacant City-owned property

that could be recaptured for park purposes.5/22/2019 PC Parks, Recreation &

CultureComment acknowledged - Previously addressed through PCR 9.1.5, and incorporated into Downtown character area description.

47 Community gardens are a desired amenity that could be added to our parks. 5/22/2019 PC Parks, Recreation & Culture

Comment addressed - See new Strategy PCR 9.1.11. The city would be supportive of and facilitate the use of park land for a community garden should an interested group come forward.

48 The Commission questioned the status and need for library facilities. 5/22/2019 PC Parks, Recreation & Culture

Comment addressed - See revised Strategy PCR 9.6.7.

49 The Commission questioned the status and need for expanded museum facilities and other non-profit museums in the City, such as the Freedom Museum and the Fire Museum.


Comment addressed - See the following revised strategies: PCR 9.6.2, 9.6.6, and 9.6.8.

50 The Commission discussed level of service and the consideration of park land in neighboring jurisdictions as well as HOA facilities. While the level of service deficit may seem aspirational, the addition of school recreation space and Annaburg Manor will reduce the deficit and create a more achievable goal.


Comment acknowledged - Previously addressed through the following strategies: PCR 9.1.4., 9.1.5, and 9.1.8.

51 In response to written comments submitted by Raymond Beverage, the Commission opted to change the term “family-oriented” to “family-friendly”.


Comment addressed - See revised goal.

52 The natural resources inventory noted in ESH 8.1.1 should identify park areas to be landscaped and those to remain natural areas.

5/22/2019 PC Environmental Sustainability & Health

Comment acknowledged - Staff suggests this comment be addressed as part of the development of individual park master plans.

53 In strategy ESH 8.1.4, clarify entitlement as land use applications. 5/22/2019 PC Environmental Sustainability & Health

Comment addressed - See revised Strategy ESH 8.1.3.

54 Strategy ESH 8.4.3 should be revised to note the protection of natural wetlands so as not to be confused with constructed wetlands.



55 Strategy ESH 8.4.6 should be revised to focus on ensuring flood plain maps are updated and maintained.



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2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdateComprehensive Plan Committee Meeting Discussion CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response56 Under strategy ESH 8.5.3, the Commission debated the need to “diminish

reliance” on single-occupancy vehicles. Staff recommended to reword the strategy to “provide alternatives to” single-occupancy vehicles.



57 The Commission discussed the use of renewable energy technology. ESH 8.5.4 should be reworded to “reduce barriers and provide resources”, which may include financial incentives should Council determine to provide them in the future.



58 Strategy ESH 8.5.6 should include promoting the availability of electric charging stations. People plan trips around the availability of charging stations. Manassas should promote this as a resource to visitors.



59 The Commission questioned the term “dark skies” under ESH 8.6.1 and recommended changing the strategy to remove unclear terminology and state that the City will continue to address lighting and noise pollution.



60 Strategy ESH 8.6.3 should include noise mitigation for the airport noise, in addition to railroad noise.



61 The Commission agreed with Mr. Beverage’s comment on objective 8.7 that the term “affordable” connotes a fiscal intervention and that the objective should be revised.


Comment addressed - See revised Objective ESH 8.7.

62 The Commission agreed with Mr. Beverage’s comments under ESH 8.7.2 that the City should participate in the Greater Prince William area community health needs assessment rather than conducting a separate assessment.



63 Strategy 8.7.3 should provide opportunities for residents of all “abilities” in addition to all ages and income levels.


Comment addressed - See revised Strategy 8.7.3.

64 The Commission agreed to add a strategy under ESH 8.7 to encourage medical and health services to expand in the City, particularly in the Hospital/Sudley character area.


Comment addressed - See new Strategy ESH 8.7.6.

65 Downtown Focus Priorities: include restaurants to the list of desired activities and services under focus priorities.

6/5/2019 PC Land Use Comment addressed - See revised Downtown focus priorities.

66 Downtown Focus Priorities: Define “transit-oriented” to explain the concept of adding residential density within a half-mile of the VRE.

6/5/2019 PC Land Use Comment addressed - See revised focus priorities.

67 Downtown Design Principles: Consider reorganizing the design principles to emphasize the importance of development that respects the Downtown’s historic context.

6/5/2019 PC Land Use Comment addressed - See revised design principles. 64


2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdateComprehensive Plan Committee Meeting Discussion CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response68 Downtown Core Building principles: Pull out the prohibition on height

increases to historic buildings as a separate bullet and define the term “contributing structure.”

6/5/2019 PC Land Use Comment addressed - See revised design principles.

69 Downtown Core Building principles: Within the retail/entertainment edge, change the text to state that “retail, restaurant, and or entertainment uses” should be included on the first floor.


70 Downtown Core Building principles: Clarify the step back provision to provide additional specificity on how this would be calculated. Piedmont Building and City Hall were provided as examples of the use of step backs in Manassas.

6/5/2019 PC Land Use Comment addressed - See revised design principles. The step back provision has been revised. See revised language.

71 Downtown Neighborhood principles: Further clarify how new neighborhood development will be “connected and integrated with the Downtown Core.”

6/5/2019 PC Land Use Comment addressed - See revised design principles with added reference to mobility chapter.

72 Downtown Neighborhood principles: Reconsider the definition of uses defined as “heavy commercial” within the Comprehensive Plan to provide better correlation to zoning uses.

6/5/2019 PC Land Use Comment addressed - See revised definitions of heavy commercial and retail/service.

73 Downtown Neighborhood principles: Add the word “strongly” to indicate that the expansion of heavy commercial uses is “strongly” discouraged.


74 Opportunity Sites: Some members indicated a discomfort with identifying specific properties as Opportunity Sites and questioned staff on the advantages and disadvantages of this approach. A suggestion was made to identify sites by map location instead of by specific address/properties.

6/5/2019 PC Land Use Comment addressed per Commission guidance provided at meeting on 6/12/19 (see comment 79).

75 The Committee discussed the removal of a portion of the Winters Branch Trail extension from the bicycle and pedestrian recommendations as drafted and requested by residents of the adjacent neighborhoods. The Committee affirmed that the trail extension should not be included in the draft plan.

6/12/2019 PC Mobility Comment addressed - See revised bike network map.

76 Character area transition language: The Commission expressed concern that the language does not provide sufficient protections for residential neighborhoods. The Commission requested the following language be removed: “…and uses and development should be compatible with adjacent character areas.”


77 The Committee discussed the designation of a portion of Liberia Avenue as either mixed use, as requested by a property owner, or general commercial. The Committee agreed that the area should be designated General Commercial.

6/12/2019 PC Land Use Comment addressed - See revised character area map.

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2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdateComprehensive Plan Committee Meeting Discussion CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response78 The Committee discussed whether the plan should address building height

on a case-by-case basis, as drafted, or recommend reducing height limits for buildings within the downtown core. Members of the committee expressed concern that the revised step back language was not sufficiently clear, particularly as applied to full block redevelopment. The Committee agreed to continue refining language regarding building height and massing without recommending a strict reduction in height limits at this time.


79 Opportunity sites: The Committee expressed continued concern for the designation of single properties and discussed concerns with displacement of existing residents in residential areas. The Committee also provided guidance that the opportunity site at the corner of Liberty and Prince William Streets should be limited to residential uses that transition appropriately to the surrounding neighborhood. The Committee agreed to include opportunity sites within the draft plan.

6/12/2019 PC Land Use Comment addressed - See revised opportunity sites language and map.

80 Chapter introductions: Provided feedback on the introductions to the draft chapters. Changes were minor in nature.

8/21/2019 PC All Chapters Comment addressed -See revised chapter introductions.

81 The Committee recommended changes to the Sudley/Hospital character area and directed that the character area would be renamed Sudley Medical. The Committee provided feedback and recommended changes to the building and site placement language.


82 The Commission provided minor comments on word choice in Chapters 1 and 2. The Commission affirmed the themes identified in Chapter 2.

9/25/2019 PC Introduction and Community Overview

Comment addressed - See revised chapters.

83 Character area map shows Manassas Medical rather than Sudley Medical. 9/25/2019 PC Land Use Comment addressed - See revised character area map.

84 Clarify industrial vs. manufacturing throughout the plan. 9/25/2019 PC Land Use Comment addressed - See revised chapter.

85 Update opportunity sites map to remove site names. 9/25/2019 PC Land Use Comment addressed - See revised map.86 The link to the choosemanassas.org should include language that the link

can be used to find out more about the incentives in the Economic Development Incentive Areas map.

9/25/2019 PC Economic Development Comment addressed - See revised note on Map 5.1.

87 Table 6.1 - Clarify funding source for projects is not fully-funded by local dollars.

9/25/2019 PC Mobility Comment addressed - See new narrative on page 3 and note on Table 6.1

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2040 Comprehensive Plan UpdateComprehensive Plan Committee Meeting Discussion CommentsUpdated Through: 10/9/2019# Comment Summary Date Submitted Contact Relevant Chapter Staff Response88 Update Grant Avenue streetscape improvements graphic. 9/25/2019 PC Mobility Comment addressed - Caption revised to

note example complete street.

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2040 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE

COMPREHENSIVE PLAN LINKSNOVEMBER 8, 2019

1

The draft Comprehensive Plan can be found online at www.manassascity.org/planmanassas. Copies are also available for public review at: City Hall Department of Community Development, 9027 Center Street #202, Manassas, VA 20110.

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