Project Path

The vision for the Tree Hill development stems back to 2007 when county officials voted to approve zoning the property for a mix of residential and commercial use. This project had the support of groups like the Varina Beautification Committee who said, “It is our pleasure to endorse the Tree Hill Farm Project as an excellent example of smart growth principles, traditional neighborhood design, inclusion of open space and reduction of dependency on the automobile,” and the Virginia Department of Historic Resources who said, “The Department will be pleased to work with GrayCo in the years ahead to ensure the realization of the full benefits of the preservation opportunities that have been made possible by the company’s generosity, thoughtful approach, and stewardship philosophy.”

Community and public support, and subsequent approval, came after numerous stakeholder meetings including a 10-day charette in November of 2006 where hundreds of residents and interest groups toured the property, offered feedback and collaborated on shared visions for the community. The master plan for development agreed upon in 2007 is similar in scope to the project coming to fruition today.

Since 2007, most of the ±523-acre property has been used for farming. However, some of the historical structures on the site have been stabilized and are poised for renovation for their next use. The Main House was repaired in June of 2009, and the Dairy Barn was recently repaired in August of 2023. Acknowledging the cultural significance of the site to the Powhatan Chiefdom, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed with the United Indians of Virginia in 2010 to establish a vision for a permanent, interactive settlement to commemorate Native American heritage in eastern Henrico.

In May of 2024, Brookfield Properties signed a purchase agreement for the site.  With zoning already fully approved, Brookfield will bring the 2007 vision to reality.

Since 2007, activities have taken place on the site which have demonstrated the significance of this area on James. From serving as the set of a major motion picture to welcoming the Capital Trail across the entrance, this site has played a role in the evolution of the area. Its next iteration will yield an even greater contribution to the entire community and Central Virginia.