Friday, Aug. 21, the William and Mary Real Estate Foundation submitted plans to the City of Williamsburg to redevelop Richmond Hall and its surrounding land into a community of 37 residential townhomes.
WMREF said in an emailed statement that it had considered other uses for the land, including building a hotel or a mixed-use development incorporating student housing.
“We believe a thoughtfully designed residential community is the right answer for this particular property and for this part of Williamsburg,” WMREF wrote.
Before getting final approval from the Williamsburg City Council, staff and members of the planning commission of the City will review the proposal. Residents and community members will also have the opportunity to give public comment.
WMREF said the redevelopment plan could help increase economic activity and taxable revenue for the City of Williamsburg.
“We want the finished project to be something that strengthens this part of Richmond Road and that both the [William and Mary Real Estate] Foundation and the community can be proud of decades from now,” WMREF wrote.
Executive Director of Media Relations Suzanne Clavet wrote in an email to The Flat Hat that the lease for Richmond Hall expires at the end of summer 2027. Clavet said the College has considered any student housing changes that may arise from demolishing Richmond Hall.
“On-campus space planning, as detailed in the Housing & Dining Comprehensive Plan, contemplated and accounts for this shift,” Clavet wrote.
