RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) - One of Richmond’s most charming neighborhoods, known for its quaint pastry shops, high-end boutiques and variety of restaurants, finds itself divided by a call for new development.
Specifically, a proposal to replace the BP Gas Station on Libbie and Grove with a 4-story, mixed-use apartment complex has the neighborhood abuzz.
Opponents cite the fact that the building would be almost twice has high as the zoning requirement for the area of 28 feet, could create traffic and parking issues, and doesn’t adhere to a Master Plan for the neighborhood that residents and city staff spent months crafting.
Supporters point to the prospect of an influx of high-income shoppers, more diversity of local shops, and the fact that the proposal already includes plans for some 74 parking spaces, mostly to be built underground.
In the middle, you’ll find Councilman Bruce Tyler, who represents the 1st District.
Tyler told CBS 6 Friday that he hasn’t taken a formal stance on the debate, and instead would like to see more dialogue -- and collaboration -- between residents, merchants, civic associations, the developer and other stakeholders.
To view Sam Brock’s full report, click on the video player above.
