The University of Richmond is agreeing to a timeline for road improvements to limit any adverse effects of a proposed 8,700-seat football stadium on campus.

The university is seeking a special-use permit from the city of Richmond to allow a $25 million expansion of First Market Stadium, which accommodates about 2,500 spectators.

John K. McCulla, coordinator of university relations, and other UR officials met last night with neighboring residents to brief them on the project.

After the meeting, McCulla said university officials are willing to improve UR Drive by the stadium's opening in fall 2010 and to build a connecting road from Crenshaw Way to Spider Lane by fall 2011.

The improvements are expected to make UR Drive, one of two campus entrances from River Road and one of four overall, more inviting for stadium traffic. It also should have the least impact on neighbors.

McCulla said the timelines and new limits on stadium noise and lighting will be part of a revised permit application to be filed this week. University officials are hoping for approval by the Planning Commission and City Council in June.

McCulla said the stadium would reflect the university's gothic architecture and its small scale, by university standards. "It's moderate, and it's going to be designed so it fits well in the university."

Last night's meeting with about 40 neighbors and officials from the city and Henrico County was cordial, although it was clear that some residents doubted the university's assurances that the new stadium wouldn't lead to traffic snarls and sports fans parking in neighborhoods.

University officials insist the inconveniences from five or six games annually will be minimal and say enough parking will be provided on campus to accommodate everyone.

"It looks likes we're continuing to make progress," said Bill Berry, president of the Three Chopt Civic Association. "Our goal is to not block the stadium but to be sure it's done right."

The football stadium would have a smaller seating capacity than the adjoining Robins Center, a 9,071-seat venue for basketball. University officials said their permit would not allow games at the Robins Center and football stadium at the same time.

It also would prohibit outdoor concerts but would allow up to three community events, such as the Special Olympics, per year.

With the new stadium, the Spiders home football games would be moved from UR Stadium, near Carytown, which is leased for $1 per year from the city.

City Councilman Bruce W. Tyler, whose district includes First Market Stadium, said the discussion about the stadium needs to continue. He suggested the university host regular meetings to keep the community abreast of construction projects and other activities.
Contact Will Jones at (804) 649-6911 or wjones@timesdispatch.com.