CHARLOTTESVILLE (WINA) – The Albemarle County Board of Supervisors has approved a 525-unit residential development off Old Ivy Road on 35 acres of land right next to the 29 Bypass. Some two dozen people spoke at a public hearing prior to the vote with opponents worried about the traffic generated on the small thoroughfare. Those favoring it like the location near the UVa Darden and Law schools, and not faculty and students living in these units are within walking or biking distance.

Rivanna Supervisor Bea LaPisto Kirtley said two railroad trestles over Old Ivy make changes challenging, but VDOT will be fast-tracking the triangle area next year and come up with a comprehensive plan to improve traffic flow. Meanwhile, the developer will make some improvements along Old Ivy fronting the property which includes making a multimodal path.

In the proffer package, the developer has also agreed to pay 6% of the cost of the road improvements, paying no less than $150,000 and no more than $750,000.

Supporters are also happy that the development will be affordable in 79 units for those making less than 80% AMI.