Evaluating Project Impacts

The Louisa County Comprehensive Plan reflects the residents' desire for the community to retain its rural character. Our Community Development department, Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors review potential impacts for each project and implement project requirements to reduce unwanted outcomes.

Noise

Some business types are associated with higher noise levels. See discussion points for mitigation.

Mitigation Strategies

As needed, we require projects to have:
  • Sound buffers/dampers around project site 
  • Quiet hours during construction

Traffic

Many of the designated growth areas are interstate adjacent and will not increase traffic in the County. See other considerations.

Mitigation Strategies

As needed, we require projects to have:
  • Site selection based on project's transportation needs (i.e. distribution facilities should select sites near I-64) 
  • A traffic plan for construction period

Visual Impacts

We look for ways to visually hide industrial buildings and other facilities that may visually interrupt the rural atmosphere.

Mitigation Strategies

As needed, we require projects to have:
  • Vegetative buffers 
  • Natural buffers to block sightlines of projects on lower elevations

Environmental

In addition to safely growing our infrastructure, we work with state regulatory offices to ensure environmental standards are met or exceeded.

Mitigation Strategies

As needed, we require projects to have:
  • Data showing expected pollution, smell, etc. associated with the project and buffer needed around the project for minimal impact 
  • Phased land disturbance plan that conforms to County ordinance 
  • A plan for water/wastewater, possibly to include working with the County on enhancing infrastructure