Bristol, Virginia, October 10, 2025
News Summary
The Bristol, Virginia Planning Commission is set to consider a rezoning request for the former Washington-Lee Elementary School site, aiming to develop apartments. Developers Clyde Stacy and Jim Bunn plan to turn the site into 28 to 32 apartment units, with an estimated development cost of $8 million to $10 million. The project could enhance local housing availability and property values, amidst concerns from residents based on past developments in the area. The upcoming review is a critical step before the proposal goes to the City Council for final approval.
Bristol, Virginia Planning Commission Reviews Rezoning Request for Former Washington-Lee Elementary School to Create Apartments
The City of Bristol, Virginia Planning Commission is scheduled to consider a rezoning request for the former Washington-Lee Elementary School site, which is pivotal for the proposed development of apartments. Currently zoned as R-1 and R-1A for single-family residential use, the site is being considered for rezoning to R-3, which would allow for moderate density residential development on the 8.3-acre property.
Developers Clyde Stacy and Jim Bunn aim to acquire the site from the city, intending to renovate the existing school footprint into 28 to 32 apartment units. However, residents have raised concerns about the potential for the project to fail. They referenced issues encountered with the former Virginia Intermont College campus, which has been vacant since 2014 and has drawn problems such as homelessness, vandalism, and fires that resulted in the destruction of several buildings.
The proposed apartment project estimates a total cost between $8 million and $10 million. Rent for the new units is projected to range from $1,900 to $2,300 per month. Under the R-3 zoning designation, various related uses may be permitted, potentially requiring a special permit. These uses include bed and breakfasts, schools, community centers, and churches, although the primary focus will be on residential use.
Bristol’s Community Development Director, Jay Detrick, noted that the development could positively impact the local economy by increasing housing availability and raising property values. Additionally, it is expected that the project will comply with the 2021 Virginia building codes, which likely means the installation of fire alarms and sprinklers will be required.
Mayor Becky Nave described the project as “exciting,” but underscored the importance of ensuring it is the right fit for the neighborhood given its location within a residential area. The Washington-Lee Elementary School was one of three educational institutions closed in 2024, which prompted the city to seek redevelopment offers for all three properties. Besides the Washington-Lee site, Stacy and Bunn are also tasked with the redevelopment of Stonewall Jackson, which is already zoned B-3 for general business, specifically for hotel development.
The upcoming review by the Planning Commission is a crucial step before the rezoning request moves on to the City Council for final approval.
FAQ
What is the rezoning request for the former Washington-Lee Elementary School site?
The rezoning request is to change the current zoning from R-1 and R-1A single-family residential to R-3 moderate density residential to accommodate the development of apartments on the 8.3-acre site.
Who are the developers involved in the project?
The developers are Clyde Stacy and Jim Bunn, who are looking to acquire the site for the proposed apartment development.
What is the estimated cost of the development project?
The total cost of the project is expected to be between $8 million and $10 million.
What are the projected rent prices for the apartments?
Average rents for the proposed apartments are projected to range from $1,900 to $2,300 per month.
Key Features of the Development Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Current Zoning | R-1 and R-1A (single-family residential) |
| Proposed Zoning | R-3 (moderate density residential) |
| Site Size | 8.3 acres |
| Estimated Cost | $8 million to $10 million |
| Projected Apartment Units | 28 to 32 units |
| Projected Rent | $1,900 to $2,300 per month |
| Compliance | 2021 Virginia building codes |
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Additional Resources
- Herald Courier: Development News
- Wikipedia: Rezoning
- WCYB: RV Park Concerns
- Google Search: RV Park Development
- WCYB: Bristol Council RV Park Vote
- Google Scholar: City Council Rezoning Votes
- Smithfield Times: Proposed Sheetz Store
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Convenience Store Development
- WJHL: Rezoning Request Rejected
- Google News: Rezoning Rejections
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
