2190 Merrimac Rd, Blacksburg, VA 24060

Rural Residential 1 District

The purpose of the Rural Residential district is to provide for residential development at a scale intended to conserve the rural character of the district. Development within the Rural Residential district is intended to promote the following goals and objectives. Development proposals shall be evaluated for their adherence to these goals: Conservation of agricultural and forestal lands including farm fields and pastures.; Conservation of natural resources including wetlands floodplains natural drainage ways aquifer recharge areas existing tree cover steep slopes ridge lines hilltops, wildlife habitats deer wintering areas stream valleys locations comprising scenic views or scenic view corridors and other outstanding natural topography.; Conservation of a unified open space area.; Creation of residential developments on a traditional rural scale with small villages surrounded by agricultural forestal or open space lands.; Flexibility and creativity in the design of residential subdivisions with less suburban-style sprawl and less consumption of open land.; These measures will prevent soil erosion by permitting development according to the nature of the terrain, provide larger open areas with greater utility for rest and recreation and encourage the development of more attractive and economic site design. They will create a convenient attractive and harmonious community and facilitate the provision of parks forests playgrounds and other recreational facilities. These goals are intended to preserve existing agricultural forestal and other lands of significance for the protection of the natural environment.