Town Crier Articles

 

The New Town Community Pool is now open through Labor Day. The pool is closed on Tuesdays and daily hours are posted on the NTRA website calendar.

 

To use the pool, residents must have a new electronic pass. ALL users must review the 2022 pool rules and sign an acknowledgement form before being eligible to receive a pass. 

 

Many, many thanks to our volunteer Pool Committee and our community manager, Anne Ingram and her admin staff for their efforts to organize, label and distribute about 800 passes so far. 

 

If you are an owner in the New Town Residential Association and have not picked up your pass, contact Chesapeake Bay Management (757) 706-3019 for an appointment to do so.  Tenants - work through your property owner or property management/rental company to obtain a pass. New Town condo residents should reach out to their property management company for information.

 

With the Covid-19 virus still circulating, please be mindful of others and keep your distance while using the pool. Let’s all make the lifeguard’s job easier by following the pool rules. Happy swimming! 

 

Pictured below: Pool pass distribution 2022 with our amazing Pool Committee volunteers! 

                                    

 

 

Hello friends and neighbors. 

As I’m sure most of you know by now, inspections of home exteriors have been going on for several weeks and will resume mid-month in Shirley Park, Abbey Commons, and Savannah Square.  (Given vacations and other events, our schedule for the Village Walk inspections will await the completion of these other neighborhoods.)

 

Our Chesapeake Bay Community Manager, Anne Ingram, along with the members of the Asset Maintenance Committee have certainly been busy in May. The inspection process has been going fairly smoothly and I’m pleased to say that for the most part things are looking good! 

 

In the event you receive a letter of violation, we ask that you address the issue as soon as possible to avoid any further covenant enforcement actions by the NTRA. 

 

Once all of this home inspection work is complete, the Committee members will begin inspecting NTRAproperties.  These include our walking trails, common areas, walkways, etc.  

 

On another note I’d like to give a BIG shout-out to Alex Trent and her team of Activities Committee volunteers for the wonderful job they did with the Community Potluck on Friday, May 20th!  What a great turnout and what fun meeting new neighbors and friends!  If you missed this event, there are a few other parties being planned for the summer.  It’s a great way to get out, make some new friends and have fun!  Check your email and the NTRA website for notices on these upcoming events. 

 

Finally, Chesapeake Bay offers its employees summer hours as one of their employment benefits. Their office at 337 McLaws Circle will be closed on Friday afternoons starting at noon. Please be respectful of this great staff’s time and plan your appointments/calls accordingly [Monday thru Thursday  8:00 to 5:30PM;  Friday 8:00-1200.] 

 

Wishing you and yours a happy and fun-filled summer in New Town!

 

 

The NTRA Board of Directors (BOD) has accepted the resignation of Director Laura Loda who has stepped down due to personal circumstances. Laura wrote, “During my all too-brief tenure, I have found the Board to be an effective and dedicated group. I believe we have made some significant progress during the first half of the year, and I have no doubt that the group will continue to do so in the months to come. This is a simple case of competing priorities and limited time.”

 

I am personally very grateful to Laura for her calming presence and ability to cut to the chase. Laura took on the challenge of rolling out the new pool entry system for our 2022 swim season and our community is in her debt. Even with Laura’s departure the NTRA enjoyed 5 months of consecutive leadership since last December’s Board election - a record since the transition to homeowner control!

 

 

The Board is now seeking a volunteer to fill Laura’s remaining term which expires December 31, 2023 (18 months). If interested, please submit an application by email to:  Monique Stevens, Board Secretary - ntrasecretary@gmail.com 

 

Your application need not exceed one page and should include your: 

• Name, address, contact information 
• NTRA neighborhood (see below), and 
• Qualifications for Board membership (for example: prior NTRA Committee service or other relevant experience), any biographical or other information you wish to include.
• A short statement of why you are interested in serving on the Board of Directors.  

(See NTRA policy 1.0 “Vacancy in the Board of Directors”.) 

 

All applications received by June 22, 2022 will be considered for appointment.

 

As a reminder, our Bylaws (Article IV, Section 4.1) state “No more than two directors may be owners in the same neighborhood.” Current directors are Mary Cheston (Charlotte Park), Jack Espinal (Abbey Commons), Everett Lunsford and Glen Mitchell (Village Walk). However, as of mid-June, Glen is relocating to a home in Charlotte Park. So the Board can consider applicants from any neighborhood except Charlotte Park.

 

The Board is currently addressing a variety of significant issues and will be moving forward towards a vote on the Governing Documents revisions. Each Board member serves as a Board Liaison to one or more of the eight standing NTRA committees.  As volunteers we take on the responsibility to govern, budget, enforce, mediate, supervise operations and maintain grounds by working with vendors and our management company. Most Board work is done by email and monthly meetings. Other questions on what is involved? Please email Monique. 

 

Serving on the Board is a challenging commitment for anyone, but it also gives you direct impact and influence on how Association business is handled. We hope each NTRA owner will seriously consider stepping up to serve. We are building a strong foundation for the future of our community - join us!

 

 

While New Town is so lucky to have been home to The Corner Pocket for 20 years, in June, owner Lynn Allison will be celebrating 30 years for this amazing business! New Town is not the original location for this exciting restaurant/billiards hall, but we are so grateful to be their home now.

 

Lynn Allison came up with the idea to open The Corner Pocket in June of 1992 when the game of billiards was taking the country by storm. While Lynn herself, is not an avid pool player, she knew this business is something the Williamsburg community needed. When New Town developers gave the option for business owners to also own their land, she knew that would be a great opportunity, too.

 

The Corner Pocket is the very first business to have opened its doors in August of 2003 after breaking ground in July 2002. Lynn worked with Guernsey Tingle to create the unique design for the property and liked the idea of giving it a New Orleans-style architectural design. The design turned out so exceptional that The Corner Pocket won the “Best Architectural Design” award by Billiards Digest magazine in 2003. Along with its welcoming design style, The Corner Pocket is also home to the city’s biggest outdoor patio.

 

While strolling through New Town, a first-time guest might stumble upon The Corner Pocket because of the beautiful outdoor space, for which Lynn Allison credits her amazing staff’s efforts. The welcoming patio was not only helpful for their survival through Covid restrictions, but it's design was also strategic to draw more attention to the restaurant. “Not many people would give The Corner Pocket a chance for dining if they were not interested in the game of billiards,” Lynn says. The patio has people take a second look and is the restaurant's first chance to “wow” guests.

 

What really keeps people coming back to The Corner Pocket? Sure, they have 13 tables to enjoy shooting pool, but their exceptional food is what keeps the regulars loyal to this fan-favorite New Town eatery. The Corner Pocket menu features unique appetizers, classic salads, delicious burgers, and even some specialty items with a New Orleans slant (think: Corner Pocket Jambalaya!) Chef Jess is also quite a wiz with desserts. Cross your fingers that she’s whipped up something new to try on your next visit or be sure to save room for their regular dessert menu which features options like a Salted Caramel Pound Cake or Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Pie!

 

We could go on and on about all the reasons we are lucky that The Corner Pocket chose New Town for their new location 20 years ago, but we’ll just say this: if you haven’t visited yet, don’t wait any longer!

 

 

Six weeks ago, it was taking so long for us to do a load of laundry, we wondered if the neighbors weren’t sneaking dirty clothes into our home. In truth, our dryer was the culprit. We needed to run it three or four cycles just to dry a load that used to take one cycle. Being all too sadly familiar with planned obsolescence, we figured our 14-year-old appliance had hit the end of the road. But before we started shopping, we brought in a repairman.

 

He said the dryer was fine, then asked when had we last cleaned out the vent? We’d had it done; we just couldn’t remember when.

I took my shop vac and vacuumed both inside and out. I got a lot of lint, but the dryer still wasn’t right. The repairman had recommended calling Atlantic Vent Cleaning, though he added there were other good companies as well. We decided to take the first available appointment, which turned out to be the next day with Atlantic.

 

For a bit more than $100, the Atlantic technician used a 23-foot snake to completely empty our vents of lint (see photo for about half of what he got from the outside vent.) We were so impressed and relieved that we’ve already scheduled an appointment for this time next year. Why?

 

According to Dustdoctors.com, here are the negatives to a clogged dryer vent:

• House fires. Just under five percent of all house fires in the U.S. start in the laundry room, resulting in deaths, injuries, and hundreds of million dollars in damages each year. Of those fires, a third of them were caused by the homeowner forgetting to clean the dryer vent.
• Higher bills. Overheating can cause your equipment to break and need expensive repairs or replacement. Combine this with increased utility from an ineffective dryer, and the cost of a clogged dryer vent can really add up.
• Pests. It is something which many people never consider, but if there is enough build-up to push open the outside laundry flap, you are proving an easy way for pests like rodents to enter your home.

 

Here are some warning signs:

• It takes longer than usual to dry your clothes. A clog in your vent prevents the hot, moist air from escaping your dryer, which prolongs the drying time and leaves your clothes wet at the end of a cycle.
• You notice a burning smell. Lint and fabric fuzz are highly flammable, so it doesn't take too much heat to ignite a small piece. If you ever smell something burning when operating your dryer, turn it off and contact a technician immediately.
• Your clothes are hot to the touch at the end of a load. If you find it difficult to touch your clothes without burning your hand, your vent may be clogged, which prevents hot air from escaping.
• You can see lint or debris in the dryer hose or around the outside dryer flap. Once you can see a build-up in either of these two places, you know you are well past the time you should have cleaned your dryer ducts.
• You haven't cleaned your vents in over a year. In a typical household, the dryer vent should be cleaned at least once a year. Homes with more frequent loads of laundry need to clean out their vents more often.

 

 

NOTE: This article was originally written by NTRA Board Vice President Jack Espinal and includes responses from Brennan Raab and McLean Gordon of the Whitmore Company, who were provided an advance draft of the article for review. Responses have been slightly edited for clarity. 

 

The original James City County plan for the wooded lot behind Sullivan Square was for a fashionable, boutique hotel. For 19 years this property has remained vacant, and the New Town community was built up all around it. The lack of investors and a downturn of the hotel market in Williamsburg has forced the property owner to revise the planned use for this area. Instead of a hotel, the Whitmore Company plans to develop the property into a one- and two- bedroom apartment complex. These upscale, luxury apartment units and associated amenities will be designed to appeal to young professionals.

 

The Planned Apartment Complex. The Whitmore Company plans to construct four buildings on the site. Their plan places a four-story building with 54 apartments on Shannon Place adjacent to Sullivan Square. This building will house a lobby, administrative office, clubhouse, billiards room, pool, and fitness center for the use by Manor on the Green residents. 

 

Two additional three-story buildings will be constructed on the sides of the property. One of them will be located on Center Street and the other will be on Foundation Street. Each of these buildings will have 24 single-bedroom apartments. The fourth building, a two-story carriage house, will be constructed along Lydias Drive. It will contain four large, two-bedroom apartments built over multiple enclosed private garages. According to the developer, the luxury units in the apartment complex will provide an amenity-rich place for young, upwardly mobile professionals as well as for people opting to downsize from larger homes. 

All of the buildings in the complex will have elevators for access to the upper floors. One hundred and twelve parking spaces, “screened from public view,” for their residents’ use will be located in the center area between the four apartment buildings. The complex will be served by three entrances: one on Center Street another on Lydias Drive and a third on Foundation Street.

 

The Developer. The Whitmore Company has experience in building and managing high-quality, multi-unit housing in the Portsmouth and Hampton areas. They have specialized in both new construction and adapting older historic buildings for residential use. Once constructed, the Whitmore Company stays on to manage the properties for its investors. This business plan makes it less likely that the surrounding community will be left with unsolved problems after construction is completed. The Whitmore company has a good reputation for the management of its rental properties. They also provide on-site management availability 24 hours a day and include a daily valet trash pickup service for their renters.

 

 

 

 

The New Town Residential Association (NTRA) Board of Directors has several major concerns regarding the development of this property. Board representatives recently met with Whitmore Company management and have raised the following issues with the developer. 

 

Insufficient Parking. Parking for the residents is a major concern for New Town. As planned, the apartment complex will have a negative impact on parking in the surrounding community.  Street parking in this area is already in short supply. The current Manor on the Green plan provides only 112 parking spaces for the planned 106 residential units. It does not consider or address tenant families that will have more than one automobile, visitor parking, parking for development employees, and delivery/services parking. 

 

The plan also mentions the use of 36 street parking spaces located around the perimeter of the site as well as the use of other parking spaces in New Town for use by its apartment residents. Parking in the area around the proposed construction site is already scarce, especially at night, and will only be made appreciably worse when the apartment complex is occupied. While this plan may meet the James City County parking requirements for New Town, it would not be prudent to build this apartment complex without including additional dedicated parking for its residents. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stormwater Mitigation. Currently the stormwater that falls on the Manor on the Green site percolates through the soil where it is naturally filtered. However, this development will make the site largely impervious to water and create large amounts of runoff which will be directed into an already stressed stormwater management system.  The short- and long-term impact of this additional runoff has not been fully addressed in Whitmore’s conceptual plan.  Whitmore advised us that the current stormwater system was designed with a building in mind; however, they will research the condition of this existing infrastructure considering issues raised by the Board.

 

Sewer System Capacity. The sizing and capacity of the existing sewer system was developed to support a hotel and not apartments. Constructing an apartment complex in place of a hotel will bring two or three times more people into the area to use the existing underground infrastructure. The planned residential apartments will include 106 kitchens as well as 106 laundries that were not considered or included in the original plan for the construction of a hotel. This will create a significant increase in wastewater that must be handled by the existing sewer system. It is unclear whether the existing sewer capacity is sufficient to support the development of an apartment complex of this size. The Board has raised this concern with the developer. It should be addressed by the Whitmore Company and James City County prior to construction. 

 

Construction Impact on the Existing New Town Infrastructure. The tree clearing process, the site development, and the subsequent construction will create a large volume of traffic in and out of New Town.  Much of this additional traffic will include large trucks with very heavy loads. This heavy vehicle traffic will cause significant wear and tear on our roads, curbs, and walkways and has the potential for significant damage. The Whitmore Company monitors the before and after condition of their sites, in order to return any damaged roadway areas to good condition. However, this impact is not just immediately adjacent to the construction site but will also be along whatever arteries the construction traffic uses for access and egress. This wear and tear as well as any damage that may occur to our existing infrastructure during the construction phase will need further discussion among all parties.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Whitmore company is working on architectural renderings for the site.  The clearing of trees from the property will be an environmental loss to our community and we asked for their landscaping plans to consider maximizing greenery. Later this summer we expect that representatives will come to New Town to discuss their more detailed development plans with members of our community. We welcome this dialogue.

 

While we have always known that this property would eventually be developed, we must do everything we can to ensure that the development has a minimal impact on the quality of life for those currently living in New Town and reduce any negative impact on visitors who use the outstanding restaurants, retail stores, theater, and other facilities both during and after construction.  Having a vibrant rental option in our midst could help to keep our commercial businesses stable.  It is the Board’s hope that the Whitmore Company will work with us to satisfactorily resolve any issues that impact our community. 

 

 

 

The annual Blackbeard Pirate Festival returns to Hampton from June 3 to 5 at Mill Point Park. The event features costumed re-enactors, cannon battles, mermaids, music, vendors, lectures, and fireworks.

 

On Friday night, the festival kicks off with a ‘Pirate's Parlay’ from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Mill Point Park. This free party is a family-friendly event featuring a performance by the Clan MacCool Band. The public is encouraged to show up in their finest piratical attire.

 

On Saturday, the festival runs from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and returns on Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

 

Events include:

 

Character vessels: Included is Blackbeard's sailing ship Adventure, Royal Navy vessels Jane and Ranger, and merchant vessels which engage in battles on the Hampton River Saturday and Sunday.

 

Character actors: Dozens of professional pirate re-enactors, and living history interpreters from all points of the compass will be in attendance, along with Helena the Mermaid, Fins and Seashells, Circus Siren Mermaid, and more.

 

Weekend performers include Mark Miller/Rusty Cutlass, The Brigands, Chaste Treasure, Press Gang, the Natterjacks, and Field Musick Virginia.

 

On Saturday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., scholars Dr. Jamie Goodall, author of “Pirates of the Chesapeake Bay: From the Colonial Era to the Oyster Wars,” and Jeremy Moss, author of “The Life and Tryals of the Gentleman Pirate, Major StedeBonnet,” will offer free lectures at St. John's Church, sponsored by the Hampton History Museum.

 

The Museum will also hold its annual Steam Punk Show Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. (also free and open to the public).

 

Fireworks over the Hampton River will be on Saturday, June 4, at 9 p.m.

 

The festival was previously named the third-best pirate festival in North America by USA Today.

 

For more information, visit the Pirate Festival website (https://www.visithampton.com/event/20th-annual-blackbeard-pirates-festival/2022-06-05/). 

 

 

 

In mid-May my husband Ric and I traveled to the Midwest ostensibly to visit three National Parks but more importantly to experience Tulip Time in Holland, Michigan. What a show it was - both natural beauty and human warmth.

 

Holland, Michigan is a mini-Dutch suburb, taking seriously its heritage and traditions. For 8 days each spring the entire city celebrates tulips. The streets and parks are lined with tulips. (Obviously their cold winters must discourage squirrels and rabbits.) Homeowners plant bulb displays and compete in the city’s floral show including great photography and themed floral arrangements. (Did you know that Holland claims that the author L. Frank Baum wrote “The Wizard of Oz” while vacationing on Lake Macatawa?) Naturally this year’s competition was a variety of Oz-inspired topics prompting creativity in many forms.

 

Besides a Dutch village recreation/children’s park, there is a spectacular display of tulips at Veldheer Tulip Farm (4 million bulbs) along with a wooden shoe and delft pottery factory. We hit the tulips at their peak - their brilliant colors were something to amaze even a non-gardener like me. 

 

Holland has a proud tradition of “klompen” - traditional Dutch dancing in wooden shoes which dates to 1935. The dancers were out in force performing on the downtown streets.

 

The parades associated with Tulip Time are both eyeopeners. Holland’s Kinderparade is filled with elementary schoolchildren in costume celebrating different aspects of Dutch culture and history. Then to close the festival, there is a larger Volksparade with floats and local bands and the pre-parade “street scrubbing” led by the Mayor.  Of course the Holland High School Band wore wooden shoes down the entire parade route. Several thousand visitors lined the streets to cheer on the festivities. Fireworks on the lake closed out the festival-their equivalent of the Fourth of July.

 

My true bucket list item is to visit Amsterdam and the Keukenhof spring garden. But Holland, Michigan was a lot closer (and cheaper) and certainly a wonderful surprise.  

 

P. S. Writing this article was inspired by Jim Ducibella’sApril 2022 article on Gloucester’s Daffodil Festival, and by the Communications Committee’s desire to broaden contributions to the Crier from throughout New Town. There are so many small town and city festivals - for example, has anyone attended the “Red Flannel” i.e. long johns, festival in Cedar Springs, Michigan? Do you have a favorite festival either in the area or elsewhere to recommend for residents to consider? PLEASE SEND IN A WRITEUP FOR OUR NEXT CRIER ISSUE-ntratown.crier@gmail.com.

 

 

In 2015 Phil and I retired to New Town and “village life” in Charlotte Park, specifically Ercil Way. It’s been wonderful. Alas, as in most neighborhoods there have been some problems. We have experienced the constant free flow of water down Ercil that causes slipping and sliding in the winter and some mushy yards in the summer. Drainage is a problem as are sink holes. Understanding what will happen when this section of New Town transitions from the Developer is very important to us.

 

The May 10th special meeting of the New Town Residential Association (NTRA) Board brought the community up to date on past concerns and the issues still needing repair in Charlotte Park Phase 10. There were about 20 residents in attendance. 

 

The Board had hired Giles and Flythe Engineering Company to assess the common areas. Zach Shephard, Regional Manager, presented open issues with recommendations from the January County and Giles and Flythe inspections. They were as follows:

• The continual problem of rushing water down Ercil Way. According to Board President Mary Cheston, James City County will have to approve an engineering fix to these foundation drain discharges which ABVA is preparing.
• Determine the cause of paint peeling on the Olive Drive fence along the wet pond. Recommendation: Secure a paint professional to evaluate proper surface type and paint the coating accordingly to maintain a coating on the Olive Drive fence with a one-year warranty. 
• Remove loose vegetation from wet pond along Olive Drive. 
• Repair cracked asphalt section at handicapped ramp at Olive Drive and Lucretia Way.
• Repair cracked curb sections along Lucretia Way and the curb inlet concrete section of Olive Drive and ErcilWay.

The Giles and Flythe report had estimated the cost of remaining repairs at approximately $59,000. ABVA, the Developer, reported via email that some of this work has been completed and the only two issues still needing attention are the Olive Drive fence along the wet pond and the seepage issue on Ercil Way.

 

From the community comments, there were other actions and/or recommendations for the Board:

• Obtain a letter from James City County (JCC) indicating structures were built according to County specs.
• Conduct camera imaging for the storm water system to see if the moving of water to BMP is functioning properly. It appears that JCC requires this for new areas, like Shirley Park, but not older developments. The Board will check into this.
• Understand what NTRA must do to properly maintain assets, especially these stormwater systems (Chesapeake Bay Act).
• Ask ABVA to sealcoat the alleys before turnover.

The Board is in the process of getting bids for the regular maintenance of all BMP/Bioretention ponds (including the Olive and Casey Blvd. wet ponds). Also, consideration of any sealcoating will await the resolution of the Ercil Way drainage situation since excavation may be required. 

 

Ultimately, the NTRA must make a determination that these areas are “in a condition acceptable to the Association.” (Section 4.9 of the Amended Master Declaration).

 

 

 

 

This year the temperature of the Atlantic Ocean and circulation patterns in the ocean look remarkably similar to the way they did in 2005 -- the year the category 5 Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans.  Consequently, we may anticipate a similarly active and devastating hurricane season this year.  

 

Hurricane season is June 1 until November 30 with peak hurricane season from mid-August to late October.  

 

Now is the time to initiate planning and preparations to help ensure the safety of our community and that of our families.    

NOAA will provide several days advance notice as well as the projected track of each major storm in the Atlantic. This gives us time for a possible evacuation or to prepare to weather the storm in New Town. 

 

Here are some tips to consider:  

 

• Photograph or video your home and belongings for possible future insurance claims.
• Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes so you are ready to leave New Town, if necessary.
• Plan to take your pet/s with you and identify where you will stay (friend, family, hotel) inland in case you evacuate -- the further you are from the ocean the slower the winds will be.  
• Build a Hurricane Kit for use if you stay or evacuate.  
• Keep your car’s gas tank filled.    

 

• Consider putting duct tape on windows to lessen flying glass.
• Secure outside items -- windblown objects create damage. 
• Fill your bathtub with water to use for toilet flushing.
• Move important items to higher floor.  
• Protect property from flooding and water damage by moving items to a second floor and protecting them with plastic bags.
• Plan on taking your animals with you if you evacuate.

Hurricane Kit - At a minimum consider including these items in your kit: 

• Extra cash (ATMs may not be operable)
• Keep batteries charged
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Battery-powered radio with extra batteries (or a hand crank radio)
• Cell phone and charger
• First-aid kit 
• Tool kit
• Duct tape
• Utility knife 
• Medications (seven days or more)
• Nonperishable food for seven days or more
• Manual can opener
• Drinking water (7 gallons per person / a seven-day supply)
• Pet supplies to include food, water, medications, collar & leash, current photos, proof of vaccinations, etc.    
• Important documents (IDs, lease, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies, etc.)
• Toiletries and sanitation supplies
• Change of clothes
• Blankets

Prepare now and have peace of mind that you and your family are prepared when the weather forecast announces an approaching hurricane.  

 

 

On May 12, 2022, VDOT released the results of its traffic study of Casey Boulevard and Center Street.

“VDOT has reviewed the intersection for safety improvements needed and whether a four-way stop is appropriate for this intersection.  Based on the traffic volume disbursement between the two roads it was determined that a four-way stop is not recommended for this intersection.”

VDOT found that Center Street carries approximately 20% of the total volume of Casey Boulevard “which is not consistent with the guidance for a multi-way stop condition.”

 

The review did determine that the line of sight for northbound Center Street is obstructed.  As a result, “VDOT will be taking measures to help improve this situation by relocating the stop bar.” Chesapeake Bay and Virginia Lawn and Landscape have already taken steps to trim trees and/or remove shrubs blocking the line of sight in the intersection, per VDOT’s recommendations.  

 

In April, the Board of Directors also submitted to VDOT a detailed photo inventory of the damaged sidewalks throughout New Town in hopes of receiving repair attention in VDOT’s next budget cycle. Unfortunately, VDOT remains adamant, as reported at last year’s Annual Members Meeting, that their other traffic priorities will not permit it to address this situation. Tracey Lassiter, VDOT’s Williamsburg Operations Manager responded that:

“…all of our employees are currently providing traffic control along primary routes and have been for two weeks.  Please understand that we currently have 550 outstanding work orders. That means that I have 550 current unsatisfied customers.  Immediate roadway safety concerns are our first priority.  These are things such as potholes, dead animals in the roadway/right of way, vegetation causing sight distance issues, missing or damaged roadway stop/yield signs, drainage issues that cause water to flood the roadway, etc. I will have someone review the sidewalk concerns as time and priority allows.”

 

VDOT repeated that it will not take responsibility for sidewalks uplifted by tree roots.

“VDOT cannot be responsible for these types of repairs because it requires the removal of the existing sidewalk slab, the removal of the tree root (which may kill the tree), and the repouring of a new concrete slab. If the tree is not removed, the roots will very quickly push up the sidewalk yet again. Unfortunately VDOT does not have the resources for these types of potentially recurring problems. Should the tree be cut down/removed, VDOT could provide a repair or slab-repour.” 

 

VDOT also believes based on previous visits that some sinking slabs are being caused by home drainage systems, e.g."the homeowner's downspout/black pipe which was draining at the sidewalk location causing voids and settling of the slab.  If the homeowner removes the pipe, VDOT can then consider a repair. Sprinkler systems also cause sidewalks to settle/crack. Again, VDOT cannot consider a repair until the sprinkler system is removed.”

 

We will continue to keep the community informed if any progress is made with VDOT in the coming months. Expensive decisions may await the Association. Continue to watch your step when walking in our community!

 

 

Dog owners, what would you do for a year of free dog treats? 

 

Would you encourage your pet to do his business on the mulch instead of grass?

 

Would you pick up after your pet and deposit in the designated dog stations?

 

Would you show respect for your neighbors by not letting your dog trespass into flower beds and private yards?

 

Well, fortunately most of you do these things already without needing to be rewarded. If, however, you are one of a growing number of dog owners who are letting your dog roam on private property, damage the grass and seasonal flowers with urine, and leave poop for someone else to pick up, then this plea is for you. Allowing your dog to do his business in your neighbor’s yard, even if you pick it up, is not OK.

 

Please consider your neighbor’s property and our community’s appearance when walking your dog. You won’t be getting free dog treats, but you will earn much gratitude from the rest of us!

 

 

 

Our New Town neighborhood is a diverse community of individuals comprised of young professionals, students, families, retirees, and a growing number of Baby Boomers leading the way in the new “Unretirement Movement.” This is not a revelation, of course.  As a “planned community,” just such diversity was the vision and goal of New Town’s Developer, and almost from the beginning, the tie that bound New Town’s diverse neighbors together were social gatherings, community events, seasonal neighborhood activities—and special interest clubs and social committees. None of these events or entities are ever the main focus of a community’s HOA Board, to be sure; but a good HOA Board knows the value in nurturing these grassroots gatherings, clubs, and happenings among its neighbors. They are nothing less than signs of a thriving and happy community whose residents are committed to each other--and to the greater good.

 

At present, New Town has a number of clubs and small groups meeting regularly to talk, interact, and enhance ties within the community.  Listed below are the current clubs and their contacts.  All operate independently from the New Town Residential Association—and a good many more would be welcome.

 

The New Town community has three book clubs, to date, our newest of general topics and life in New Town, begun, last July, by resident Ginny Fisher. Sadly, none of them are actively open to new members at this time—but here is your opportunity!  Book Clubs can be generic or highly selective. Are you a Jane Austin fan? A devotee of Ray Bradbury? Is there a specific genre that you are drawn to? Sci-Fi- Fantasy, Southern Gothic, the Supernatural? Forensic mysteries? The same would serve for those who love poetry or folklore. Perhaps you enjoy discussion on contemporary works of a specific theme. The possibilities are vast, and any New Town resident is welcome to form a new book club—or any club--and recruit for it by contacting the Communications Committee via their email address at ntrawebsitecommittee@gmail.com.

  

A new gardening club has formed and is open to all residents of New Town. Beautifying our common areas with plantings is one goal, but other activities might include embarking on horticultural field trips, attending garden related educational events, or enjoying social outings, happy hours, or other forms of socialization and fun. Please email neverendinggardenparty@gmail.com or call Kelly at 757-713-5755 if you are interested in learning more. 

 

The Retired Men's Club meets for lunch on the fourth Thursday of the month to talk about what's going on in New Town and in the larger community. (Note: The group has been dormant during the Covid pandemic. Resurrecting it would be welcome.).

 

Meets for lunch on the first Tuesday of the month at a New Town restaurant for conversation and informal discussion of what's happening in our community. Contact Angela Lesnett at alesnett@verizon.net 

 

So, what club or committee might you add to the above?  Do you have an interest or a skill that you would like to promote or share with your New Town neighbors? Have you been toying with the idea of getting a group together to pursue a topic in depth via a small group that would be like-minded?  Below are some ideas for new community clubs and committees. Come and create those ties that bind! All you need do is put your thoughts together and reach out to your Communications Committee at ntrawebsitecommittee@gmail.com. The Committee is ready and willing to help you get the word out and the crowds in!

 

Club Ideas:

 

Film Club: Are you interested in vintage films or a specific film genre? Perhaps getting a Film Club going would be of interest to you, engaging others while enhancing your own enjoyment and knowledge of the medium. 

 

Photography Club: There’s no place like New Town for picture taking. Get a club going to exchange methods and ideas about the art—and to capture your neighbors and your community for posterity.  Your Communications Committee is always looking for “Life in New Town” pics to post.

 

Quilting/Crocheting Clubs:  Quilting is a great American art.  Quilters gathering together to share tips and innovations—and a mutual love for their craft—would enrich all involved.

 

Gym/Exercise/Walking Club: We all know the value of exercise—but not everyone is drawn to it, naturally.  Get some friends together regularly to cheer you on!

 

Breakfast Club:  Coffee, company, and little nosh is never a difficult thing to make a habit of.

 

Birdwatching/Wildlife Club:  Take advantage of our setting and our walking trails—and that old pair of binoculars gathering dust since you moved in. New Town wildlife is diverse--and regular trips with those like-minded to the Peninsula’s many parks and waterways can be a fun way to enhance your discoveries. 

 

Have the above club ideas got you thinking?  Once again, just reach out to your Communications Committee via their email address at ntrawebsitecommittee@gmail.com for support getting the word out. Create a new tie that, in goodwill and New Town fellowship, will help further bind us into the fun and socially committed community that we are. 

 

 

 

SUMMER FUN AT THE POOL:

 

The New Town Residential Association's Activities Committee has also been busy planning events at the Community Pool for New Town residents. 

 

Save these dates:

• Tuesday evening, June 14, 2022 - After Hours Social from 6 to 8 PM (BYO everything!)

• Saturday, July 16, 2022 - Annual Pool Party - 11 to 1PM (Pizza and drinks provided)

• Tuesday evening, August 16, 2022 - After Hours Social from 6 to 8 PM (BYO everything!)

 

Watch for more details in eblasts and via this NTRA website. 

 

And from the New Town Commercial Association:

Join us for a line-up of FREE, monthly pop-up events, to CELEBRATE 20 YEARS of New Town! 

 

Save the Dates for the first Saturday in June through August! These monthly public events will be located by the Fountain and down Main Street by the Gazebo, and are sponsored by the New Town Commercial Association.

 

Family Fun Day

June 4th, 11am-2pm

The Teeny Tiny Farm Petting Zoo, Bubbles The Clown, Face Painting & More!

 

Ice Cream Social

July 2nd, 12-2pm

Beat the heat with some ice cream! A sweet, summertime delight on us!

 

Live Entertainment

August 6th, 11am-2pm

Stay tuned for details on LIVE entertainment by the fountain!

 

 

 

It's not you, it's me. You're great... really. I'm just not looking for a commitment right now. Have you thought this about volunteering on one of our many New Town Residential Association (NTRA) Committees? HAVE I GOT A DEAL FOR YOU?! 

 

First, the benefits. A recent post on Indeed.com, Benefits of Volunteering: 10 Reasons to Volunteer summarizes some of the mood-boosting, purpose-providing benefits of volunteering in your community. Beyond adding to your sense of purpose and community, volunteering can help you meet new people, improve self-esteem, get you out of your comfort zone, and be FUN! 

 

You may be thinking, "sure, but volunteering simply doesn't fit into my spontaneous lifestyle. I can't be tied down." Introducing, the NTRA short-term, one-time, if-I-am-in-town, sounds-like-fun, volunteer assembly! This exclusive assembly will be contacted in times of need (e.g. community events that need additional support, help getting the word out about important news, etc.) 

 

One immediate and ongoing opportunity is to be a guest-writer for the New Town Crier! Have you taken any fabulous or unusual trips? Do you have a favorite festival to visit? Do you want to share interesting news about the community? Do you have great New Town photographs to share? You can write one article or several throughout the year; it's up to you! 

 

Commitment is hard; volunteering doesn't have to be! Contact ntratown.crier@gmail.com if you're interested.

 

 

The New Town Community Pool is now open through Labor Day. The pool is closed on Tuesdays and daily hours are posted on the NTRA website calendar.

 

To use the pool, residents must have a new electronic pass. ALL users must review the 2022 pool rules and sign an acknowledgement form before being eligible to receive a pass. 

 

Many, many thanks to our volunteer Pool Committee and our community manager, Anne Ingram and her admin staff for their efforts to organize, label and distribute about 800 passes so far. 

 

If you are an owner in the New Town Residential Association and have not picked up your pass, contact Chesapeake Bay Management (757) 706-3019 for an appointment to do so.  Tenants - work through your property owner or property management/rental company to obtain a pass. New Town condo residents should reach out to their property management company for information.

 

With the Covid-19 virus still circulating, please be mindful of others and keep your distance while using the pool. Let’s all make the lifeguard’s job easier by following the pool rules. Happy swimming! 

 

 

We have a new electronic entry system for the New Town Community Pool gate. This new system allows for easier and safer entry for authorized pool patrons. The new system uses proximity cards, similar in size to a credit card and only requires holding the card near the reader to open the gate. Each household in good standing will receive two pool passes this season after completing and submitting the required documents. 

 

The first thing an owner needs to do is to familiarize themselves with the updated 2022 pool rules. There is an acknowledgement form in the document that must be signed and submitted to receive your new passes.

 

NTRA owners in good standing in accordance with NTRA Policy must sign the acknowledgement form found in the 2022 NTRA Pool Policy and Rules.  To receive a new pass, this acknowledgement form must be submitted in advance to Chesapeake Bay Management either by:

NTRA owners with tenants in their property will be accountable for the passes. In addition to the 2022 NTRA Pool Policies and Rules acknowledgement form, owners must sign the form headed “For Owners with Tenants ONLY” and submit both forms to Chesapeake Bay Management along with a copy of the current lease page showing tenant(s) name(s), NTRA property address and the term of the lease. Either the owner or tenant may pick up pool passes once the owner has submitted these required documents.

 

New Town Commercial Association condo owners and tenants should contact their property manager for information on how to obtain passes.

 

Where Can You Get Your New Pass? 

Once you have submitted your form(s), three pass pick-up dates have been scheduled at the pool for NTRA owners/ tenants only:

 

 

If you are an NTRA owner and miss these dates, you must make an appointment at Chesapeake Bay Management company to obtain your new pass. Appointments may be scheduled by calling 757-706-3019.  All pool passes must be signed for in person - no passes will be mailed!

 

PROTECT YOUR PASSES! These new passes will be used in future years so protect them!  A lost pass will cost $25 to replace.

 

NTRA owners, look for a letter this week outlining these requirements! We look forward to a fun and tech-friendly swim season. 

 

The first time Tara Stratton met with neighbors to discuss the New Town Pool, it was 2011 and the discussion wasn’t about entry systems or pool refinishing, it was to figure out how to get the pool built in the first place. Fast forward more than a decade, and Tara is once again working to make the New Town Pool a safe, enjoyable part of the neighborhood.  

 

There were only six homes built in Charlotte Park when Tara and her husband John, along with their two children, decided to take a chance on the neighborhood. Tara recalls the early days of all-neighborhood Easter egg hunts, island-planting parties, and of course, neighbors coming together to get a pool built. Over the last decade, John’s Air Force career relocated the Stratton family to England, Washington D.C., back to Williamsburg, and back to England. With John’s retirement from the Air Force, the Stratton’s celebrated their most recent, and hopefully final move back into their Charlotte Park home in the summer of 2021. 

 

So, what does our NTRA pool committee do, exactly? “The primary role of the pool committee is to make recommendations to the Board of Directors (BOD) on what is needed to improve the pool experience for residents,” notes Tara. “We work closely with the Management Company and the BOD to make the pool a pleasant place to be.” For example, the pool committee may recommend optimal pool hours based on resident usage and desires balanced with budget and staffing availability. 

 

A huge success for the 2022 season was securing the new entry system (see "2022 New Town Pool Season Requires New Pool Passes"), which required months of research, bid solicitation, and working with the BOD to allocate funds. Throughout the pool season, committee members monitor pool operations and facilities. Based on observations from previous seasons and resident feedback, the pool committee and Management Company recommended a supplementary cleaning company to enhance pool restroom and common area cleanliness, which the BOD secured for 2022. At the end of the season, pool committee members take inventory and note any repairs or maintenance concerns to address in the off-season. This year, committee members will conduct furniture evaluations to potentially add to and update the current available pool furniture.

 

Do you have suggestions or feedback you would like to discuss with the pool committee? “We always have time for input from the community at the pool committee meetings,” Tara shared. The schedule of pool committee meetings is available on the NTRA calendar webpage.  

 

We have moved into new space for New Town Residential Association (NTRA) meetings - hopefully for at least the remainder of 2022. Developers Realty has made the former Computer Concepts store at 5118 Center Street (next to Salon Vivace) available for Member use until such time as a permanent tenant leases the location. 

 

The space has two separate meeting areas that are reservable for Committees, with combined seating for 22 people.  (There is also a small office for our community manager to use when she is on site.) Reservations are through the NTRA website, and instructions have been sent to all Committee Chairs on how to reserve and maintain the rooms.

 

Members of the Board cleaned and spruced up the area to provide a more presentable and safer meeting option. Many, many thanks to Glen Mitchell and Ric Cheston for their efforts in repainting two large areas. Let’s hope the space doesn’t look so much better that someone wants to rent it permanently!

 

Our thanks to Developers Realty for working with us to identify a usable location. Be sure to frequent our neighboring New Town businesses while you are in the area taking care of NTRA business.

 

 

At its April 26, 2022 Business Meeting, Supervisor Jim Icenhour requested that James City County staff revise the language regarding the Eastern State Hospital land use redesignation in the pending Comprehensive Master Plan descriptive text to remove references to “New Town.” He asked that staff propose new descriptive language to the Board of Supervisors (BOS).  

 

Planning Director Paul Holt confirmed via email that “when the Comprehensive Plan materials return to the BOS concurrent with a rezoning application, the updated name will appear (as Eastern State, Parcel C) in the documents for the Board’s consideration.” 

 

To date, this is the only official change to the Eastern State proposals that is under formal consideration. The Board took no action on the NTRA’s request for an official County commitment to no cut-through of Olive Drive and other items outlined in our April 8th letter, which will also likely await a formal rezoning application from ABVA.

 

 

Tuesday, May 10, 2022

6:30PM

 

Stryker Center, Room 128 

412 N. Boundary Street, Williamsburg

 

 

Homeowners are invited to attend a briefing by Zach Shephard, Giles & Flythe Engineering on inspection results from the January 2022 inspection of Phase 10 of Charlotte Park. This area includes lower Rollison Drive, Ercil and Lucretia Ways (surrounding Christine Court), and the Olive Drive area. 

 

Mr. Shephard participated as New Town Residential Association's (NTRA’s) engineering representative in the James City County reinspection of this area. Mr. Shephard has been invited by the Board of Directors to share his findings and recommendations with the community. 

 

Per NTRA policy 5.1 Turnover or Acceptance of Assets, this meeting is to obtain resident input on items called for in the County’s-approved plans, prior to ABVA turning the common areas over to the NTRA.

 

A copy of the Giles and Flythe report is posted on the NTRA website. (Look under Committees - Other Information/Turnover Issues).

 

By Jack Espinal, Vice-President

 

April has been a busy month on the landscaping scene.

 

 

The NTRA Board has approved a project to resurface the grass in Lydias Park with Zoysia sod.  This species of grass is known for its ability to stand up to the summer heat and heavy foot traffic. It produces a dense, beautiful lawn that requires little or no water once it is established. Zoysia is so dense that it literally prevents weed growth. Seeds from weeds and other grasses simply cannot penetrate the turf to germinate in the soil and grow. This eliminates the need for future application of chemical herbicides in Lydias Park and eliminates a future Association expense.

 

A warm weather grasses pilot project has been in the works for a couple of years after members of the Landscape Advisory Committee (LAC) experimented with Zoysia in their yards. They were pleased with the results and recommended that the grass be installed elsewhere in New Town. If the Association is pleased with the results of this initial installation, consideration will be given to planting Zoysia grass in other New Town locations.

 

Lydias Park was chosen from several  locations for this installation because of the condition of the existing grass and the associated underground sprinkler system which has not operated for several years and would be costly to repair. It also allows us to remove the sprinkler system from our reserve study and saves our Association from having to fund future system maintenance. 

 

The downside of Zoysia grass is that it turns brown when it goes dormant in the winter or when there is a severe drought. However, warm weather and a little water brings the green grass right back. While brown grass in the winter is a disadvantage, it will eventually create a more consistent appearance and most likely look better than many of the “spotty” lawns in New Town.

 

 

The LAC has also identified four highly visible areas of New Town that, with additional landscaping, will create a positive visual impact for our community. They researched and identified multiple species of perennial plants and evergreens that will provide changing colors and stay beautiful throughout the year. These Gateway projects are located around the community - in the Village Walk Clock Tower area, a new garden in a mulched area along Roper Park, plantings around the swimming pool sign, and refurbishing of the dog walk area near the swimming pool.

 

In April the Board approved these LAC recommended Gateway Projects. The LAC assisted by members of the newly established New Town Garden Club (also known as the Never-Ending Garden Party) will provide the labor for the installation, initial watering, and future maintenance of the four projects. These improvements will be made this spring.  If you would like to help with these beautification projects and/or join the New Town Garden Club, send an email to: neverendinggardenparty@gmail.com or call Kelly at 757.713.5755.

 

I thank the LAC for all of their hard work selecting sites for these projects, researching the perennial plants that will provide color throughout the year, and for volunteering their labor to perform the installation, watering, and maintenance. This effort will significantly improve the appearance of our community at a minimum cost to our Association.

 

 

The Board has also approved a conditional lease with Williamsburg Developers/Developers Realty, LLC for new space for Association meetings. This space provides two meeting areas - a large space for our Board meetings and a smaller conference area where Committees who do not have many members may choose to meet. Both rooms will be available for reservation. See related Town Crier article this month.

 

By Jim Ducibella

 

As part of my recovery from hip replacement surgery in 2009, my wife and I would daily drive over to New Town so that I could hobble, then limp, then finally walk around Foundation Square. Being the brains of the family, Sue frequently told me how impressed she was with New Town and how we should beat the baby-boomer crowd that was sure to flock to an area where they could walk to restaurants, doctors, the movies, and shopping.

 

As usual, she was right, and we have no plans to leave Charlotte Park until . . . well, you know.

 

Many others came -- and continue to come -- to the same conclusion. New Town celebrates its 20th birthday and is an ever-growing testament to the vision of people who were bound and determined not to settle for ordinary.

 

“We intentionally developed the land in phases, so that development could respond to changing market demands,” Larry Salzman, president of developer New Town Associates, recently told The Peninsula Chronicle. “The recession of 2008 caused many development projects to shut down. We were able to adapt some of our plans so that development could continue during that difficult time.

 

“New Town must continue to respond to changing times and adapt with progressive ideas to meet the needs of our residents, businesses, visitors, and the overall community.”

 

Salzman pointed to the electric car charging station in the lot across from Axe Republic as an example. In keeping pace with technological advances, Salzman said, a new, updated charger was recently installed (see, "New Town Gets an Upgraded to Electric Car Charging Station").

 

But that’s the future. Let’s take a quick look at the past, a complete timeline of which can be found if you visit this website https://www.ntrawilliamsburg.org/history/.

 

In 1996, the Carl Casey family sponsored a contest for a “new town plan” to be developed on 600 acres bounded by Ironbound Road and extending on both sides of what is now Route 199. The entry of Cooper Robertson and Partners was chosen.

 

In 2001, James City County Approves rezoning for the commercial district of New Town, which now includes the Bennington, Foundation Square, Abbey Commons, and Savannah Square.

 

A year later, New Town Associates was formed, and ground was broken on the first homes. A year later, construction began on the first two streets: Courthouse Street and New Town Avenue.

 

In 2004, the first business – The Corner Pocket – opened, and a year later, the first residents moved in.

 

Traffic hasn’t slowed since.

 

By NTRA Pool Committee

 

We have a new electronic entry system for the New Town Community Pool gate. This new system allows for easier and safer entry for authorized pool patrons. The new system uses proximity cards, similar in size to a credit card and only requires holding the card near the reader to open the gate. Each household in good standing will receive two pool passes this season after completing and submitting the required documents. 

 

The first thing an owner needs to do is to familiarize themselves with the updated 2022 pool rules. There is an acknowledgement form in the document that must be signed and submitted to receive your new passes.

 

NTRA owners in good standing in accordance with NTRA Policy must sign the acknowledgement form found in the 2022 NTRA Pool Policy and Rules.  To receive a new pass, this acknowledgement form must be submitted in advance to Chesapeake Bay Management either by:

·      Email (wbadmin@1cbm.com),

·      Mail (New Town Residential Association, ℅ Chesapeake Bay Management, 337 McLaws Cir, Ste 1, Williamsburg 23185), or 

·      In person - bring to the after-hours drop box outside the front door at the McLaws Circle address.  

 

NTRA owners with tenants in their property will be accountable for the passes. In addition to the 2022 NTRA Pool Policies and Rules acknowledgement form, owners must sign the form headed “For Owners with Tenants ONLY” and submit both forms to Chesapeake Bay Management along with a copy of the current lease page showing tenant(s) name(s), NTRA property address and the term of the lease. Either the owner or tenant may pick up pool passes once the owner has submitted these required documents.

 

New Town Commercial Association condo owners and tenants should contact their property manager for information on how to obtain passes.

 

Where Can You Get Your New Pass? 

Once you have submitted your form(s), three pass pick-up dates have been scheduled at the pool for NTRA owners/ tenants only:

 

 

If you are an NTRA owner and miss these dates, you must make an appointment at Chesapeake Bay Management company to obtain your new pass. Appointments may be scheduled by calling 757-706-3019.  All pool passes must be signed for in person - no passes will be mailed!

 

PROTECT YOUR PASSES! These new passes will be used in future years so protect them!  A lost pass will cost $25 to replace.

 

NTRA owners, look for a letter this week outlining these requirements! We look forward to a fun and tech-friendly swim season. 

 

 

By Kate Licastro

 

The first time Tara Stratton met with neighbors to discuss the New Town Pool, it was 2011 and the discussion wasn’t about entry systems or pool refinishing, it was to figure out how to get the pool built in the first place. Fast forward more than a decade, and Tara is once again working to make the New Town Pool a safe, enjoyable part of the neighborhood.  

 

There were only six homes built in Charlotte Park when Tara and her husband John, along with their two children, decided to take a chance on the neighborhood. Tara recalls the early days of all-neighborhood Easter egg hunts, island-planting parties, and of course, neighbors coming together to get a pool built. Over the last decade, John’s Air Force career relocated the Stratton family to England, Washington D.C., back to Williamsburg, and back to England. With John’s retirement from the Air Force, the Stratton’s celebrated their most recent, and hopefully final move back into their Charlotte Park home in the summer of 2021. 

 

So, what does our NTRA pool committee do, exactly? “The primary role of the pool committee is to make recommendations to the Board of Directors (BOD) on what is needed to improve the pool experience for residents,” notes Tara. “We work closely with the Management Company and the BOD to make the pool a pleasant place to be.” For example, the pool committee may recommend optimal pool hours based on resident usage and desires balanced with budget and staffing availability. 

 

A huge success for the 2022 season was securing the new entry system (see "2022 New Town Pool Season Requires New Pool Passes"), which required months of research, bid solicitation, and working with the BOD to allocate funds. Throughout the pool season, committee members monitor pool operations and facilities. Based on observations from previous seasons and resident feedback, the pool committee and Management Company recommended a supplementary cleaning company to enhance pool restroom and common area cleanliness, which the BOD secured for 2022. At the end of the season, pool committee members take inventory and note any repairs or maintenance concerns to address in the off-season. This year, committee members will conduct furniture evaluations to potentially add to and update the current available pool furniture.

 

Do you have suggestions or feedback you would like to discuss with the pool committee? “We always have time for input from the community at the pool committee meetings,” Tara shared. The schedule of pool committee meetings is available on the NTRA calendar webpage.  

 

By New Town Commercial Association

New Town is excited to announce that we are keeping up with the times! “Several years ago, when the “old” car charging station was installed, it was the first publicly available charger in James City County. In just a few years not only has the technology changed but today there are many more electric vehicles on the road. New Town has strived to be aware of innovative ideas that can benefit our community, and New Town has actively implemented changes that were needed. A new car charging station is another step in this progression, “says Larry Salzman, representative of the New Town Commercial Association.

 

The upgraded charging station is now available for public use.  The members of the New Town Commercial Association have been actively involved in keeping New Town moving forward since our groundbreaking almost 20 years ago. The all-volunteer leadership of the association has always been interested in new trends and has worked hard to be proactive in making needed changes,” Salzman shares. New Town is lucky to have active participants that keep us up-to-speed for our community.

 

Heading to New Town with your electric car? You can find the new charging station at 4935 Courthouse Street, located in the parking lot next to Axe Republic at 4919 Courthouse Street. And visit blinkcharging.com/drivers/blink-map/. 

 

We are hoping that in the not-too-distant future, New Town will be home to even more car chargers so that our guests can shop, dine, and explore New Town while their vehicles are being recharged. After all, this is New Town: Life Happens Here!

 

By Mary Cheston

 

We have moved into new space for New Town Residential Association (NTRA) meetings - hopefully for at least the remainder of 2022. Developers Realty has made the former Computer Concepts store at 5118 Center Street (next to Salon Vivace) available for Member use until such time as a permanent tenant leases the location. 

 

The space has two separate meeting areas that are reservable for Committees, with combined seating for 22 people.  (There is also a small office for our community manager to use when she is on site.) Reservations are through the NTRA website, and instructions for have been sent to all Committee Chairs on how to reserve and maintain the rooms.

 

Members of the Board cleaned and spruced up the area to provide a more presentable and safer meeting option. Many, many thanks to Glen Mitchell and Ric Cheston for their efforts in repainting two large areas. Let’s hope the space doesn’t look so much better that someone wants to rent it permanently!

 

Our thanks to Developers Realty for working with us to identify a usable location. Be sure to frequent our neighboring New Town businesses while you are in the area taking care of NTRA business.

 

By Mary Cheston, President, Board of Directors

 

At its April 26, 2022 Business Meeting, Supervisor Jim Icenhour requested that James City County staff revise the language regarding the Eastern State Hospital land use redesignation in the pending Comprehensive Master Plan descriptive text to remove references to “New Town.” He asked that staff propose new descriptive language to the Board of Supervisors (BOS).  

 

Planning Director Paul Holt confirmed via email that “when the Comprehensive Plan materials return to the BOS concurrent with a rezoning application, the updated name will appear (as Eastern State, Parcel C) in the documents for the Board’s consideration.” 

 

To date, this is the only official change to the Eastern State proposals that is under formal consideration. The Board took no action on the NTRA’s request for an official County commitment to no cut-through of Olive Drive and other items outlined in our April 8th letter, which will also likely await a formal rezoning application from ABVA.

 

 

When:

Tuesday, May 10, 2022

6:30PM

Stryker Center, Room 128 

412 N. Boundary Street, Williamsburg

 

Homeowners are invited to attend a briefing by Zach Shephard, Giles & Flythe Engineering on inspection results from the January 2022 inspection of Phase 10 of Charlotte Park. This area includes lower Rollison Drive, Ercil and Lucretia Ways (surrounding Christine Court), and the Olive Drive area. 

 

Mr. Shephard participated as New Town Residential Association's (NTRA’s) engineering representative in the James City County reinspection of this area. Mr. Shephard has been invited by the Board of Directors to share his findings and recommendations with the community. 

 

Per NTRA policy 5.1 Turnover or Acceptance of Assets, this meeting is to obtain resident input on items called for in the County’s-approved plans, prior to ABVA turning the common areas over to the NTRA.

 

A copy of the Giles and Flythe report is posted on the NTRA website. (Look under Committees - Other Information/Turnover Issues).

 

By NTRA Activities Committee

 

When: Friday, May 20th, 6 to 8PM

Where: CHELSEA GREEN - dining al fresco in the park!

 

Time to pull out the crockpot and your favorite summer recipes! On Friday, May 20th, join your neighbors between 6-8PM in the Chelsea Green Common Area (on Discovery Park Blvd) for a Community Potluck.

 

The NTRA Activities Committee is planning to fire up the grill and kick the summer off right - together! Bring your beverage of choice and something to share.

 

Do you have a summer salad recipe you like to share with a crowd? Do you always have the best chips and dips at your gatherings?  Is there a new cookie recipe you've been waiting to test? We look forward to seeing you there! Be on the look-out for more details as we get closer to the event! 

 

By Jim Ducibella

 

I heard it through the grapevine (as Marvin Gaye once said) that some folks are a bit tired of “festival” recommendations. Taking that to heart, here are four very distinct entertainment options, in four very distinct locales, any of which would make for a May to remember.

 

Lewis Black, May 5, Dominion Energy Center, Richmond: Like your comedy a little on the angry side? Washington, D.C., native Lewis Niles Black is your guy. If you don’t know, Black, 73, is an American stand-up comedian and actor whose routines often escalate into angry rants about history, politics, religion, or any other cultural trends. Lord knows he’s got plenty of material to choose from these days. For more information, visit https://www.stereoboard.com/lewis-black-tickets/richmond

 

Renee Elise Goldsberry, May 6 at Chrysler Hall, Norfolk: A gifted actress and singer, she originated the role of Angelica Schuyler in the Broadway production of Hamilton, winning the Tony Award and Drama Desk Award – followed by a Grammy for the cast album and an Emmy for the Disney+ live stage recording of this record-breaking hit musical. Goldsberry brings her golden voice to the Virginia Arts Festival, singing Broadway hits including songs from The Lion King and Rent, American pop standards, and soul classics. For more information, visit https://www.sevenvenues.com/events/detail/renee-elise-goldsberry

 

Chicago, May 14 at Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion, Portsmouth: The originators of some of rock and roll’s greatest hits, Chicago came in as the highest-charting American band in “Billboard” Magazine's Top 125 Artists of all time. As if that weren’t enough, Chicago is the first American rock band to chart Top 40 albums in six consecutive decades. Chicago recently received The Recording Academy’s Lifetime Achievement Award from the GRAMMYS, given to performers who have made outstanding contributions of artistic significance to the field of recording. For more information, visit info@pavilionconcerts.com

 

Beautiful, May 17 at Ferguson Center, Newport News: The Carole King Musical tells the inspiring true story of King’s remarkable rise to stardom. Along the way, she wrote the soundtrack to a generation. Featuring beloved songs written by Gerry Goffin/Carole King and Barry Mann/Cynthia Weil, including “I Feel The Earth Move,” “One Fine Day,” “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” “You’ve Got A Friend” and the title song.

For more information, visit https://www.fergusoncenter.org/events/detail/beautiful-the-carole-king-musical

 

 

There may be a new neighborhood – or two – in New Town’s future, pending James City County (JCC) approval of two new areas.

 

In late January, The Whitmore Company, a commercial real estate, development, and investment firm responsible for various Tidewater area developments, including Williamsburg’s High Street complex, submitted a conceptual proposal for “Manor on the Green.” It would be a residential development of three buildings containing 106 one- and two-bedroom units, with its own pool and fitness center. (An initial conceptual layout has been included in the application) This conceptual plan is currently under County review.

 

New Town Associates (NTA) is the current owner of this parcel. According to James City County’s Senior Planner, NTA has been examining the best mix of density for the land to stay within the New Town Master Plan limits and the allowed ratio of commercial and residential space (Sections 2 and 4). These discussions have been ongoing since 2020. The proposed 106 residence figure would be within this ratio.

 

Kate Licastro has learned that the grass is not always greener in someone else’s yard, a realization she came to when the prospect of moving out of her then-rental home in New Town became a possibility. A Metro Detroit native who has experienced residential life in a variety of places from Cincinnati to Washington State and Charlotte, North Carolina, she knows a thing or two about what makes a great community. Kate, a licensed clinical psychologist with a PhD from Miami University, moved to Williamsburg just short of the Covid tsunami with husband, Nick, whose work in the hospitality field led him to a new position at Great Wolf Lodge. In tow were their children, Liam (now 8) and Hannah (now 6), the family relocating for the third time in under 2 years. The family took the relocation in stride, in part thanks to Kate already working remotely from home in a position for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). During her 13 year tenure with VA, she first offered psychological services specializing in trauma and anxiety before moving into an organization development role, and culminating in working on the modernization of the organization’s electronic health record. Her work with leaders and teams in the throes of development and change was multi-faceted and rewarding, and she enjoyed the opportunity to travel a good deal to visit VA Medical Centers around the country and VA Central Offices in Washington DC.  

 

A city family who enjoys walking to their favorite haunts, the Licastros gravitated towards life in New Town and initially rented a home in Charlotte Park in September of 2019.  By March the following year, Covid hit and by April, the home’s owner chose to sell. “My husband and I looked at properties in Ford’s Colony and Powhatan Secondary, not wanting our children to change schools, but we came to the realization that we loved our home in New Town, a community that was perfect for us and where we wanted to live and raise our children. It was logical to buy our rental and stay where we were.”  Loving the outdoors and hiking, New Town’s trails afforded the family the enjoyment of one of their penchants and would keep them all in shape for extended jaunts, such as a visit to Acadia National Park in Maine where the family plans to spend some time this summer. “Our doctors and dentist are in New Town, I shop at Trader Joes, I sweat at Club Pilates, my favorite comfort food is a grilled cheese and fries from Paul’s Deli, I get my hair done at Silk Salon (where I have run into my next-door neighbor), and I could go on. I love it here.” 

 

So how did Kate become the New Town Crier’s Editor-in-Chief?  “As is often the case, the timing was right.” When the Committee’s need presented itself, Kate had just left her VA role where she was leading a team of government employees and contractors on change management communications to support the transition to the Cerner Electronic Health Record. Ironically, it was now time for a change for Kate, and the Communications Committee’s grave need of assistance spoke to her.  “I guess I’m a bit of a bleeding heart when there is a need! Having moved three times in under 2 years meant I didn’t have a lot of opportunities to feel ingrained in the community in our past two homes. Given that my schedule had just become more flexible, and I was able to help, it seemed like the right thing to do.”  

 

 

Besides having an activist mentality, Kate is a true mover and shaker.  Leaving her role with VA did not leave her stagnant.  She is now using her expertise and years of experience as an organizational consultant and change manager to man her own consulting firm, True Orbit Consulting, LLC, at trueorbitconsulting.com. The company believes “healthy organizational dynamics and practices require authenticity, foresight, skilled execution, and a healthy dose of grit,” and guides companies with services that include leadership and team development, leadership coaching, fostering emotional intelligence, navigating corporate and team changes, including advancing the practices of virtual and blended teams (teams that work both in-person and virtually). Kate notes that she is a clinician at heart and works collaboratively with her clients to identify only what will truly be of benefit to them and their teams/organizations.

 

In addition to building a new, pioneering company, while also prioritizing being available for her children outside of school, Kate still found time to pitch in and help her New Town community on one of its most important committees.  We hope Kate’s willingness to share her time and talent (in addition to everything she does as a wife, a mother, a psychologist, and a full-time entrepreneur) inspires others to give back to the community.  Volunteerism is the cherished institution of giving back to the community in which you live and thrive.  We appreciate your future consideration of opportunities to contribute your time and expertise to one of the many committees and organizations that help make New Town a wonderful place to live.