AGENDA DATE: 10/7/2026
TITLE:
Title
Schenks Branch Sewer Line Project Easement Provisions Agreement
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Approval of a Schenks Branch Sewer Line Project Easement Provisions Agreement
ITEM TYPE: Regular Action Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Richardson, Wall, Herrick,
PRESENTER (S): Ann Wall
LEGAL REVIEW: Yes
REVIEWED BY: Jeffrey B. Richardson
BACKGROUND: The Schenks Branch Sewer Line Project will replace an undersized 1950’s era 21-inch clay and concrete pipe to address both current and future sewer capacity needs. The project will be jointly overseen by the City of Charlottesville and the Rivanna Water and Sewer Authority, with full project funding provided by the City.
To support the project, the County is being asked to grant temporary construction easements, permanent utility easements, and an easement for a shared-use path across County property.
STRATEGIC PLAN: Infrastructure & Placemaking - Invest in infrastructure and amenities that create connection, opportunity and well-being.
DISCUSSION: Key terms of the agreement (Attachment A) include:
- Compensation to the County of $1,134,744.48 for the fair market value of all temporary construction and permanent utility easements.
- Joint exploration of future relocation options for the box culvert to improve long-term site viability.
- Full mitigation by the City of all construction impacts on County property.
- Restoration of commercial zoning to the parcel or compensation to the County for any resulting loss in property value.
- A right of first refusal granted to the City if the County elects to sell the property.
- Construction of a shared-use path.
County staff have reviewed the easement locations associated with the project and have no objections.
BUDGET IMPACT: The City will compensate the County in the amount of $1,134,744.48 for the temporary and permanent easements.
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the Board adopt the attached Resolution (Attachment B) to approve an agreement for the Schenks Branch Sewer Line Project and to authorize the County Executive to sign a final version of the agreement (and any related documents necessary for the proposed conveyances) once approved as to form and substance by the County Attorney.
ATTACHMENTS:
Att. A - Schenks Branch Agreement
Att. B - Resolution