The future of land just south of Charlottesville is finally starting to come into focus. 1500 jobs, a gourmet grocery store and a major retailer are all reported to be a part of Albemarle County's future.
In 2008, the Albemarle Board of Supervisors rezoned 87 acres between Fifth and Avon streets, making way for 470,000 square feet of retail space.
Charlottesville broker Jonathan Kauffman states, "We are hearing there are some big-box stores coming, possibly a Target, possibly a Wegmans and I think a Cracker Barrel coming somewhere in that area."
"Most recently we have just seen an interest on the part of the project to move forward so there have been and continue to be some conversation about that." says Albemarle County Spokesperson Lee Catlin.
The county can't comment on who will call the Fifth and Avon Retail Center home, but the developer's conceptual drawing makes room for a grocery store, two restaurants, a home improvement store, major retail store and three small stores.
But before anybody can set up shop on the land, there needs to be access from Avon and Fifth streets and that is where the proposed Bent Creek Parkway comes in. River Bend Management has agreed to fund the parkway that would connect the streets. Alan Taylor, vice president of River Bend Management issued to following statement:
"River Bend Management Inc. is proud to be working to bring a new retail development to Albemarle County . The 5th and Avon Retail Center will spur economic development and create 1200 to 1500 jobs for residents of Charlottesville, Albemarle County and surrounding areas.
While we cannot discuss specific retailers at this time, we can say we expect to introduce exciting new retailers to the Charlottesville market. Moreover, the new development and retailers will produce substantial sales and property taxes.
In addition, our plans include construction of a new connector road from Avon to Fifth Street that will enhance access between those arteries. We will also construct new bike paths and hiking trails for use by Charlottesville-area residents.
In summary, the 5th & Avon development will be an asset to the local economy, provide jobs for residents and attract "best in class" retailers that never before have operated in the Charlottesville area."
"We're excited about the possibility of a project that can respect the environmental constraints of the property and can also bring some economic benefit and vitality to the county as a whole and serve the needs of the people in that part of the community." says Catlin.
"They (residents) have really a long trip to get to 29 to get to Target and Lowes and places like that. This could take a 30 minute drive to get to those stores and make it a 5 minute drive, a great source of convenience for them." says Charlottesville broker Jonathan Kauffman.
The developer will meet with the county next week in hopes of finalizing the application process.
NBC29 contacted Wegmans and Target. Wegmans had no commenting and Target said it "does not have any information to share regarding Charlottesville, VA."
