As the city revises its Comprehensive Plan residents are wondering what a new future land use plan and zoning code could mean for the equity and affordability of housing, the density and character of their neighborhoods, and more. Here’s a look at where the city is in the complex process.

Author Archives: Erin O'Hare
I'm Charlottesville Tomorrow's neighborhoods reporter. I’ve never met a stranger and love to listen, so, get in touch with me here. If you’re not already subscribed to our free newsletter, you can do that here, and we’ll let you know when there’s a fresh story for you to read. I’m looking forward to getting to know more of you.
UVA to require vaccinations for students returning to Grounds in the fall
Thursday afternoon, the University of Virginia announced vaccination guidelines for students, UVA and UVA Health faculty and staff, as well as additional public health measures to continue to mitigate spread of COVID-19. The new guidelines state that all students returning to UVA Grounds for the 2021-2022 academic year must be vaccinated against COVID-19, starting July […]
Broken elevators spur problems for Midway Manor residents
Both elevators in the four-story Midway Manor building have been out of service since last Wednesday. Building residents, who are mostly seniors and folks with disabilities, have had to resort to drastic measures to get their medications, their mail, food, and more while they wait for repairs.
Community comes in handy for Diamondback Toolbelts
When Diamondback Toolbelts’ business surged last year, three people were doing the work of about ten. When they sought to hire more folks, they knew where to look: Charlottesville’s elite soccer pitch.
Creating guidelines key for new scholarship program for descendants of enslaved university laborers
Joyce Crenshaw Henderson pushed a stroller along the smooth brick walkway, its sunshade pulled down to shield her 3-month-old grandson from the intensifying sun rising in a cloud-dappled blue sky. Her path was clear past the newly dedicated Memorial to Enslaved Laborers at the University of Virginia to her left and, to her right, roomy rows […]
Charlottesville Low-Income Housing Coalition releases a report on the local housing crisis before the city finalizes a new land use plan
The 21-page document advocates for inclusionary and protective zoning, among other policies and practices that its authors and contributors feel will lead to a more equitable city.
“It’s about the generations:” Looking forward to the future of PHAR
When Shelby Edwards stepped into the role of executive director of PHAR in summer 2020, it was like the blooming of a seed planted long ago, says PHAR co-founder and board president Joy Johnson. This week, they sat down with Charlottesville Tomorrow to look forward to the future of the organization.
As resident-led public housing redevelopment begins, Joy Johnson reflects on a lifetime in housing advocacy
Ms. Joy Johnson received national recognition for her commitment to housing advocacy, but she’s most proud of what she and her neighbors have accomplished locally.
Community members hope Charlottesville City Council acts swiftly on Confederate monument removal
After five years of court cases, a white supremacist rally, a change in state law and now a mandate from the state’s Supreme Court, Charlottesville can finally act on removal of its Confederate monuments. But when will the city act, and how? The answer could come on May 3.
Northam has relaxed COVID restrictions on bar seating. Some local restaurateurs are optimistic — and cautious.
This week, Gov. Ralph Northam loosened restrictions on bar seating, now allowing restaurant-bars to seat patrons at the bar for service, “provided a minimum of six feet is provided between parties.” The amendment to Executive Order 72, made somewhat quietly and effective immediately, was perhaps overshadowed by Northam’s signing of a bill that legalizes simple […]