Board Matter

January 12, 2016

Comprehensive Plan Amendment for Heritage Mall

Madam Chairman,

Heritage Mall is a 10.99 acre property located on the west side of Heritage Drive (Route 2630), on Tax Map 70-2 ((1)), Lots 1D1, 2A, and 2C. The eastern part of this property is currently developed with a 75,412 square foot retail shopping and office center. The western portion of the Property includes a parking lot, a former service station, a convenience store and undeveloped open space. The site is currently zoned C-6 (Community Retail District).

On September 11, 2006, the Board of Supervisors approved APR 05-I-13A, which amended the Comprehensive Plan recommendation for this Property to permit a mixed use development that included a mixture of commercial and residential uses. Those Plan recommendations envisioned a significant redevelopment of the shopping center.

However, redevelopment of the shopping center does not appear to be feasible for the foreseeable future because of significant changes in the economy and because of lease commitments that were made during the recent substantive improvements to the Mall:

• In 2009, the exterior facades of the office building/CVS and H-Mart components of the center were renovated to create a more modern look. New signage was installed, and walkways replaced.
• In 2014, an existing arcade was removed and the in-line shops were renovated with new storefronts, new signage, and new walkways to complement the office and H-Mart components.  A 6,000 square foot retail area in front of the H-Mart was removed and new space built. The rear of the center was renovated, utilities relocated, screen walls installed, and landscaping enhanced. The automobile service station at the back of the property was closed. Re-tenanting has brought in new stores and services.

The landowner is now proposing to develop the western portion of the site with 68 single-family attached dwellings and associated residential amenities with improved pedestrian connectivity, a community center, and additional enhancements to the shopping center parking lot and plaza areas. This proposal would be in conflict with the 2005 Plan guidance.

Therefore, Madame Chairman, I ask that the Board of Supervisors authorize a Comprehensive Plan Amendment review process for the Heritage Mall parcels identified above. I look forward to working with the community to refine this proposal which would further revitalize an underutilized and unattractive surface parking area in the Mall; create attached housing that would diversify the housing stock in the neighborhood and represent an important economic investment in an older area of the County.