West End residents rebuff apartment plans for Libbie & Grove are - NBC12.com - Richmond, VA News

Concerned residents in the West End are speaking out over a proposed apartment building slated for the Libbie and Grove shopping district. The building is planned for the corner of Libbie and Grove Avenues.

Residents expressed worry that the building would change the feel of their quaint area at a town hall meeting Tuesday night.

"I think the neighborhood has an established character of single family homes, a lot of young families. The proposed development could potentially change the character of the neighborhood drastically," said resident Mike Lennon.

That fear is shared by many neighbors who voiced their opinions to Councilman Bruce Tyler.

Tyler noted that city officials have already suggested changes to the developer, who has requested approval of a special use permit. The revisions include scaling down the building from four stories to three stories. This would also reduce the number of apartments and retail stores planned for the complex. The builder has been asked to push the building farther back from the property line, as well as making changes to make sure the architecture so that it fits into existing buildings.

The front facade of the apartment building would face Grove and Libbie Avenues. The parking garage would be hidden in the back of the building. However, some residents still aren't happy, even with the changes.

"It's too high and it doesn't look exactly right," said Chris Ryan, who lives near the site.

However, one business owner said she thinks growth is needed for the shopping span.

"I do think there needs to be change, and I think it needs to grow up, our little neighborhood," said Kim Faison.

For now, the back and forth over design plans will continue between the builder, the city and residents. City officials will have to vote on whether to approve the special use permit, which is needed since the builder has proposing a larger project that what the area is zoned for.

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