Controversial Norfolk condominium project gets go ahead

I have just read an article in HamptonRoads.com entitled, “Norfolk City Council approves divisive condo project” about a controversial rezoning plan that will pave the way for 50 condominium town homes smack in the middle of a residential neighborhood.  The Norfolk City Council voted 5-3 in favor of new zoning that would allow the construction of the new condominium project.  The builder, Franciscus Homes, is planning to demolish 5 homes near the intersection of Kempsville Road and Cornick Road in order to clear space for the new condo town homes.

Opponents of this rezoning plan were on hand to make their voices heard.  Those who are against this new development state that this new construction will be counter-productive to the community because of the increase in traffic and population.  Some cited the fact that ten condos were built last year and of those, only one has sold, saying there is no demand for more condominiums in this area.  Some neighbors fear their community will cease to be quiet and tranquil.

Interestingly, even without rezoning, Franciscus would have been able to build 28 of the 50 proposed single-family dwellings.

This projected cost of this new development is $12 million and the condo town homes are expected to sell between $195,000 and $230,000.

Will this new development help to increase property values in the area?  Will local neighbors feel an increase in traffic and noise?  Only time will tell, all that is sure right now, is the rezoning has been approved and construction is slated to begin sometime soon.

Click here to read this article in HamptonRoads.com