CITY OF CHARLOTTESVILLE, VIRGINIA
                 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA



 Agenda Date:        March 6, 2023

 Action Required:    Approve Resolution for second reading

 Presenter:          Chris Gensic, Park and Trail Planner

 Staff Contacts:     Chris Gensic, Park and Trail Planner

 Title:              Appropriating funding from the Virginia Land Conservation Fund for
                     Moores Creek Parkland Acquisition - $175,000 (1 of 2 readings)


Background
The City of Charlottesville, through Parks and Recreation, has been awarded funding from the
Virginia Land Conservation Fund (VLCF) to assist with the acquisition of an 8.6 acre property along
Moores Creek adjacent to Azalea Park. The property will be used for general park use, trail
development, and to support urban agriculture and community gardens.

Discussion
This property is being funded with a matching grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund, so
the purchase price is fully covered with grant funds. Local trail and land acquisition CIP funding has
been used for the legal and appraisal work to date and will be used to record the deed. Acquisition
will provide parks and recreation space as well as opportunities for stream and forest restoration
work. Use of LWCF and VLCF funds will require the property to be placed in permanent open space
public use status with deed language and easements. This property is located just across the city
limit and is beneficial to the City as it eliminates the need for a bridge over Moores Creek to continue
the Moores Creek Trail towards 5th Street, a bridge which would most likely cost more than the
acquisition price of the property and would require regular maintenance.

Alignment with City Council's Vision and Strategic Plan
Acquisition of the property will further council goals of being a Green City by protecting the Moores
Creek watershed and providing for urban forest and trail opportunities.

Community Engagement
The Bicycle, Pedestrian and Trail master plan and the Azalea Park Master Plans were developed
through multiple public meetings and were approved by the City Council.

Budgetary Impact
Existing allocated CIP funds were used for legal and appraisal/title/survey fees.

Recommendation
Staff recommends appropriation of grant funds.

Alternatives
If grants funds are not appropriated, the property will not be purchased.

Attachments
1.   City Council Resolution - VLCF Grant Appropriation - Moores Creek Land Acq