Simpson Oaks Update

The Association’s Board of Directors met with representatives from Chesapeake Realty Partners on October 10 to learn about the revised plans for the Simpson Oaks residential development. Jonathan Mayers, President of Chesapeake Realty Partners, and his team reviewed the current plan for the Simpson Oaks residential development and noted that they have received technical approval through the county’s subdivision review process. The revised plan will be presented to the Zoning Board for consideration on November 10, 2016.

NV Homes will construct the homes. The use of a median separated entrance, the relocation of the townhouses toward the front and center of the development, and the minimal use of cul-de-sacs are some of the changes made to the plan. The plan includes 184 units made up of 101 single family-detached and 83 single family – attached units. Lot sizes for the detached homes will range in size from 7,200 – 8,800 ft² and are expected to have price points at or above those in the adjacent Pointers Run neighborhood. All the townhouses will have garages and end units will have 2-car garages. 19 Townhouses will be median income housing units available for purchase through the County’s program. The developer is requesting that the rear setbacks regulations for the single family – detached units be modified to accommodate structures such as play equipment and sheds.

The pathway originally planned between Quiet Night Ride and the development has been removed. The developer has agreed to work with the residents on Quiet Night Ride to provide an appropriate landscape buffer. Stormwater management has been moved off the residential lots and will become the responsibility of the homeowner’s association to maintain. The plans include a designated bike lane along Grace Drive connecting to Cedar Lane, sidewalks and several tot lots within the community, a large “green”/ play area, and a trail connecting the development to the Robinson Nature Center/Cedar Lane along the Middle Patuxent River. This connector pathway will utilize a 30-acre parcel of land that will be turned over to the County to be managed by Recreation and Parks. To create a pedestrian connection to the Robinson Nature Center, Cedar Lane and beyond, the developer is proposing the installation of a cable suspension bridge crossing the river to the Robinson Nature Center. Annexation of the development into the Village of River Hill was discussed with the Village Board in general terms and is a topic that will be pursued in greater detail. Chesapeake Realty has asked for the Association’s support of the project.

At their November 7 meeting, the Board of Directors will be preparing the Association’s testimony for the Zoning Board hearing on November 10. Residents are encouraged to share questions, concerns, and comments about the Simpson Oaks project in advance of the Board Meeting via email at www.villageofriverhill.org/board/board-of-directors/, by attending the November 7 meeting, or contacting the Village Manager at manager@villageofriverhill.org or 410-531-1749.