AC44 Phase 2: Parks & Recreation

Parks, greenways, community centers, and other recreation amenities are important components of a vibrant and healthy community. They enable an active, healthy lifestyle, provide contact with nature, and foster public health and wellness.

Parks and Greenways can also support the protection of green spaces and natural areas. As Albemarle County's population continues to increase, the improvement and expansion of parks, greenways, and other recreation amenities are increasingly important to meet the expanding needs of our community.

The Albemarle County Parks and Recreation Department (ACPR) oversees the planning, acquisition, management, and maintenance of parks and greenways. Albemarle County contains a wide array of parks, greenway trails, and other recreational facilities. ACPR currently operates 14 parks and 4 community centers and manages a network of trails in parks and greenways over 85 total miles in length.

The Comp Plan update provides an opportunity to improve equitable access to parks and greenway trails, and recreational facilities. Parks and greenway additions will also be important components of addressing climate action by preserving valuable green spaces and beneficial tree canopy areas.

Building Upon the Work: Park Planning & Development

Albemarle County currently has 11 future parks in various stages of planning and development; the largest is Biscuit Run Park, a 1,190-acre park and natural area located south of Charlottesville, scheduled for public opening in late 2023. ACPR is also planning and developing 13 future sections of greenway trails. An especially notable trail expansion is the 17-mile Rivanna River Greenway + Blueway (water trail with boating access).