Tree Conservation Subject of Re-zoning Hearing

The Manassas City Planning Commission is holding a re-zoning hearing regarding the residential development of a vacant lot that stretches from Zebedee Street to Fairview Avenue and from Center Street to Quarry Road. 

The Planning Commission is going to hear Van Metre's request to re-zone the vacant lot from retail and residential condos to townhouses.

Van Metre is expected to ask the city to vacate a Tree Conservation Easement that currently exists, according to Robyn Williams, who is Chair of the city's Beautification Committee. 

It was the consensus of the citizens that the city keep its historic charm by  keeping the trees during sector planning sessions in 2007, William said.

Williams will be present at the hearing to request that the commission not vacate the easement in an effort to preserve some of the mature trees located on the lot.

"The trees were to be saved in the previously approved zoning request," William said in an email. "Keeping these trees would improve the look of the entire project in my opinion."

Senior Planner for the city's Community Development Department Gregory Bokan said there are two trees in question, including a mature Sycamore at the corner of Fairview and Center streets that is protected by the easement as of the last approval. The other is a Fir tree that is at the corner of Zebedee and Center streets just before Old Town that is not protected by the easement.

The re-zoning of the space would include plans to widen the sidewalk, preserve grassy areas and plant new trees, Bokan said.

The re-zoning hearing is scheduled for  Wednesday, Oct. 5 at 7:30 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. Area Residents are encouraged to attend.