YORK COUNTY, Va. — A new mixed-use development featuring up to 125 townhomes and multiple commercial sites is moving forward near Water Country USA following approval by the York County Board of Supervisors.
The Board voted 4-1 on August 18 to approve the rezoning for Marquis Crossing, a proposed approximately 22-acre development at 200 Water Country Parkway near Route 199.
The property will be rezoned from Economic Opportunity to Planned Development Mixed Use, clearing the way for a combination of residential and commercial development.
Plans call for as many as 125 three-story townhomes along with new commercial development that is expected to include a Sheetz convenience store and gas station and an Arby’s restaurant.
Commercial Development Part of the Plan
One of the significant components of Marquis Crossing is the commercial development planned alongside the residential portion.
During the Board of Supervisors meeting, representatives for the project said commercial developer Roka Partners has agreements involving both Sheetz and Arby’s for the project.
The commercial component represents an estimated initial investment of approximately $12 million and is projected to create around 50 jobs.
Project representatives indicated they hope the commercial sites can move into construction in early 2027 following the necessary site plan and approval process.
Supervisors focused heavily on ensuring the commercial portion of Marquis Crossing moves forward rather than allowing the residential portion to be completed first.
As part of discussions before approval, the developer agreed to conditions intended to advance preparation of the commercial sites earlier in the project's development.
Up to 125 New Townhomes
The residential portion of Marquis Crossing would contain a maximum of 125 townhomes.
A fiscal analysis prepared for the project estimated home prices between approximately $380,000 and $450,000.
The development would add another for-sale housing option to an area that has experienced considerable residential and commercial growth around Route 199.
The site sits across from Water Country USA and near Marquis Shopping Center, Whittaker’s Mill and other commercial and residential properties.
Traffic Improvements Planned
A traffic impact analysis prepared for the project estimates Marquis Crossing could generate approximately 8,510 daily vehicle trips once fully developed.
Several roadway improvements are planned in connection with the development.
Those include improvements to the existing traffic signal and turn lanes around Route 199 and Marquis Center Parkway, new entrances from Water Country Parkway and an extension of the northbound left-turn lane near the Route 199 and Water Country Parkway area.
Some improvements must be completed before certificates of occupancy can be issued for portions of the development.
A Significant Mixed-Use Project for the Route 199 Corridor
Marquis Crossing is notable because the property has long been positioned primarily for economic development.
The site has been designated for economic opportunity uses in York County's comprehensive planning for decades, and the rezoning generated debate over the balance between residential growth and commercial development.
County staff and the Planning Commission had recommended denial of the application, while supporters pointed to the combination of new housing, commercial investment and tax revenue the project could generate.
Ultimately, the Board approved the project with Supervisor G. Stephen Roane Jr. casting the lone opposing vote.
With the rezoning now approved, attention shifts from the approval process to site planning, infrastructure improvements and eventually construction.
If the proposed commercial development moves forward on the anticipated timeline, activity at the Marquis Crossing site could become visible in 2027.
Next Real Development will continue tracking Marquis Crossing as the project moves from approval toward construction.
SOURCE: https://yorkcountyva.new.swagit.com/videos/396640?utm_source=chatgpt.com