James City County to purchase waterfront land
James City County board of supervisors approved the purchase of land at Brickyard Landing Park.
This will offer another water access on the Chickahominy River. Members unanimously voted to accept a $687,500 grant from the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation to buy property for the creation of Brickyard Landing Park.
A 50/50 matching grant was awarded for the purchase of 119 acres of private property on the Chickahominy River on Brickyard Road. The county owns and operates a third of an acre at the site with an access road, boat ramp and parking for about six cars. The purchase of this additional property will create a “passive park” and allow access to the river. The county is to buy the land for $1.37 million, a report to the board stated. After the purchase, the county will file for reimbursement of $687,500 from the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.
Plans for recreation opportunities on the property include hiking and mountain biking trails, enhanced water access, paddlecraft activities, picnic area, natural areas, wildlife viewing, environmental education and outdoor recreation programming. Potential features on the site may include an improved boat ramp, additional parking and improved restroom and picnic shelter facilities.
“This piece of property will really enhance our ability to get on the Chick,” said vice chairman Michael Hipple. “As we slowly build these accesses to the waterways it’s going to really enhance us 40 and 50 years down the road.”
