Proposed Retirement Community Update

On January 24, the County’s Design Advisory Panel (DAP) reviewed Erickson Living’s revised concept designs for the Limestone Valley Continuing Care Retirement Community. The community is proposed for the north side of MD 108 at the intersection with Sheppard Lane. During the time between the DAP’s initial review on December 6 and the January meeting, Erickson Living modified the design in response to the panel’s recommendations and comments provided by the community. The Association believes the revised design better reflects the objectives of the Clarksville Pike Streetscape Plan and Design Guidelines and the enhancement requirements established in the zoning regulations for Community Enhancement Floating zones.

The developer was responsive to the Association’s initial DAP input. Key improvements in the revised design are:

The Association is also pleased that Erickson Living has been in discussion with other stakeholders about extending the multi-use pathway to the east and west of the site and investigating the potential for extending pedestrian and bike amenities along the southern side of MD 108. Expansion of these features will improve safety, encourage integration of the new development, and set the standards for all new construction and redevelopment projects along this corridor. To view the revised concept plans, visit www.ericksonatlimestone.com.

Elements in the plan that the Association considers essential are the signalization of the MD 108/Linden Linthicum Lane inter-

section and the creation of an access road that will extend Linden Linthicum Lane across MD 108 and behind the existing commercial properties. However, the safety of the project’s proposed main entrance on MD 108 remains a major Association concern. Erickson and their traffic engineering consultant have had multiple conversations with the Traffic and Safety Committee and they are exploring options.

The next step for Erickson is to file the official petition to change the zoning of the site to a Community Enhancement Floating zone. Erickson has submitted a petition to amend PlanHoward2030, the County’s General Plan, to extend public water and sewer to the site. Throughout these processes, there will be additional opportunities for the public to have input. The Planning Board will review and make recommendations on both matters. The Zoning Board will have the final decision-making authority on the zoning change. Amendments to PlanHoward require a legislative change approved by the County Council. The River Hill Community Association will continue to provide input throughout the process and encourages residents to also be involved. We invite residents to share their ideas and opinions with the Association by attending meetings of the Development Advisory and Traffic and Safety Committees, speaking at Resident Speak Out during a Board meeting, or contacting the village manager at manager@villageofriverhill.org or 410-531-1749.