Public Input Process For
Fort Monroe Re-use Announced

November 2, 2005

The City of Hampton has announced a process to allow for public input into the development of a conceptual land use plan for Fort Monroe, scheduled for completion by early next year.

The city has launched an interactive website where people can express their ideas about Fort Monroe's re-use, throughout September and October. The website is www.hampton.gov/fort_monroe. Citizens who wish to can visit a Hampton public library and receive assistance in expressing their feelings, using a library computer.

Citizens can also call 311 (or 727-8311 from a cell phone or outside of Hampton), and make their feelings known about future uses for Fort Monroe.

Public workshops were also held on October 10 at Kecoughtan High School at 7:00 p.m., where citizens described their vision and concerns for the Fort Monroe area; and in December, when citizens can review the progress of the conceptual planning process.

"The conceptual plan will identify very broad land use options," said Mayor Ross A. Kearney, II. "It will allow the Army to determine the level of environmental clean-up necessary at Fort Monroe.

"It's essential that the Army move quickly," he added, "and we want to give them every opportunity to do so."

Another key issue is associated with the cost to maintain the historic landmarks at Fort Monroe, which could be as high as $14 million per year.

"Both the state and the federal government have given indications that this is not a cost they wish to absorb," said Kearney. "Meanwhile, the city is in no position to pass that kind of cost on to our citizens."

It is for these reasons, he said, that turning the post solely into an historic park is probably not realistic from an economic standpoint.

"A more viable approach could be some sort of mixed use that will generate economic impact and tax revenue that would help maintain these historic treasures, while still ensuring their beauty," he said. "These are issues that citizens may wish to consider while providing their input."

The city's Federal Areas Development Authority (FADA) and City Council will appoint a planning committee comprised of community organizations, elected officials, and citizens, to evaluate the public input and develop draft recommendations.

"Our goal is for City Council and the Governor to review and approve the conceptual plan by March," said Kearney.

At that time, the City will begin discussions with the Army and other agencies on specific strategies for re-use, clean-up, and historic preservation. The city's intent is to work with State and Congressional leadership to secure funds for the environmental clean-up.

While those discussions are taking place, the detailed process for the Fort Monroe master plan will also commence. Following market studies conducted in early in 2006, the public will have numerous opportunities to provide ideas and input, with guidance from a firm specializing in urban design.

The goal is to have a master plan approved by the city and the Governor by the end of that year.