The project will create no more than 375 homes over the next 10 years in a phased development that embraces the town’s priorities for future growthand provides much-needed housing in the midst of a statewide housing crisis. This is far fewer units than would be permissible under Vermont Act 47’s by-right density—which would actually allows for 550 units. Through thoughtful and innovative design, the project aims to conserve existing forestry and wildlife habitat while developing housing connected to the village through existing and proposed walking and biking infrastructure.
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Development Details
Variety
A mix of flats, cottages, single-family homes, townhomes, and single-level living offer options for Vermonters at every stage of life: young professionals, families with children, empty nesters, and active seniors looking to downsize but remain independent in their own homes.
Affordability
Shelburne currently has no affordable or inclusionary housing requirement. Regardless, O’Brien Brothers will commit to a legally binding agreement with the town to deliver perpetually affordable housing intermixed throughout the development with market-rate housing. This will include housing affordable to those making less than 80% of Area Median Income, as well as a variety of “workforce housing” affordable to those making 100 to 120% of Area Median Income. (Area Median Income levels and how they relate to purchase prices on income-restricted properties within Chittenden County can be found here.)
Public Process and Feedback
O’Brien Brothers are committed to reaching a development agreement with the town that is “above and beyond” normal project requirements. Additionally, we will still be required to adhere to all of the standard Town of Shelburne and State of Vermont land use processes and oversight. These include but are not limited to: Town Sketch Plan Review, Preliminary Plat Permit, Final Plat Permit, and State Act 250 review, stormwater, construction, wetland and natural resources permits. At each stage, there will be opportunity for public input, as well as oversight by the regulatory authorities, review boards and commissions, and state agencies such as the Agency of Natural Resources, Agency of Agriculture, the Department of Historic Preservation, and Fish & Wildlife Department. We will also seek input and review from standing Town of Shelburne committees such as the Housing Committee, Bike & Pedestrian Paths Committee, Climate & Energy Committee, Equity & Diversity Committee, Finance Committee, the Natural Resources & Conservation Commission, and the Planning Commission. Beginning at the development agreement and at each subsequent stage of the process, we will invite and welcome public input.
Sustainability
All homes will use 100% carbon-free electricity, using zero fossil fuels, and will meet energy efficiency standards significantly more strict than Vermont’s already stringent new construction residential energy code. All homes will include rooftop solar arrays, backup energy storage systems, and smart electrical panels that will help to manage electrical loads during broader grid outages. Proximity to the town and improved bike and pedestrian infrastructure will enable and enhance walkability to bus stops, schools, shops, restaurants, employment, and churches, and reduce the amount of vehicle miles required for local day-to-day needs.
Conservation
Existing forest and natural resource areas will be preserved, including more than 60% of the project land. We also plan to add a number of public parks, pedestrian trails, bike paths, and trail connections to and from natural recreation areas, making for a more interconnected community less reliant on vehicles.
Connection
The addition of new pedestrian infrastructure and off-street connections enable walkability and easy bus/bike/pedestrian access to schools, the post office, grocery stores, restaurants, churches, and other village amenities, creating a true pedestrian-oriented development.
Click to enlarge diagrams below
The Project’s Fiscal Impact on the Town
The Town of Shelburne conducted an independent analysis to address the proposal’s impact on municipal revenues and resources. The study was conducted using standard professional practices and statistical data collected across all town departments.
Report Highlights
A Net-Positive Impact on Town Revenue
An estimated 350 new housing units would produce a projected $1,183,697 in net new tax revenue (after all associated costs to the Town have been accounted for), generated through an approximate 16% increase in Grand List value.
Significant One-Time Revenue
Zoning Permit fees, Certificates of Occupancy, and other one-time fees would add an estimated $2,478,535 in revenue to the town, which could be used for various town improvement projects and additional amenities.
Expansion of the Town’s Economic Vitality
New homes in a range of price points will help alleviate the town’s existing market imbalance while adding additional customers and employees for local businesses. The addition of approximately 136 school-aged children will help sustain the local school district and add to the community’s overall vibrancy.
The land has been privately owned by O’Brien Brothers for 50 years, during which time the company has paid taxes on the land, maintained it, and happily offered its use free-of-charge to neighbors and community members alike for their enjoyment.
What effect will this have on the town’s sewer capacity?
The proposed development includes extending the existing town sewer service area to encompass the northern portion of the property, defined as the land south of Irish Hill Road, north and east of Thomas Road, and west of the Wildwoods neighborhood (previously developed by O’Brien Brothers). The town has confirmed the ability of both the existing and proposed future wastewater treatment plants to service this development, and the addition of these new residences will lessen the cost for all by spreading it out to more taxpayers.
Will the local school district be overwhelmed by so many new residents?
No. In fact, recent data shows that enrollment at Champlain Valley School District (CVSU) is declining. Adding young families with children to the area will help sustain our local school district and reduce individual tax burdens by adding more taxpayers to the Grand List.
How will these homes enhance the town’s aesthetic?
Our thoughtfully and tastefully designed homes reflect architectural styles and color palettes in alignment with the town’s existing historical features and charm. The homes and lots will not be large, but in fact seek to use land efficiently and ensure that every acre of land taken from its natural state is developed thoughtfully to meet the maximum needs of the community.
Will the pace of construction be a nuisance to the area?
The proposed development will be built in eight (8) distinct phases over approximately 10 years and will adhere to all applicable construction hour limitations. Our goal is always to be good and conscientious neighbors, and we will always welcome constructive feedback on how we can improve our process to minimize negative impacts to our neighbors.
Is this project contrary to the Town Plan?
The town’s own attorney has confirmed in writing that the project, and the extension of the sewer service area to accommodate that project, DO NOT violate the Town Plan. The project proposes the development of land where sewer infrastructure is already built and in place— permitted and constructed in conjunction with all appropriate town ordinances, and duly adopted and owned by the Town of Shelburne.
The town plan consists of more than a sewer service area discussion. As discussed at length above, the project proposes to make significant progress toward many goals of the town, which are in furtherance of the goals of the Town Plan. Most recently, a months-long community input process called Shelburne Forward Togetherresulted in the definition of community goals. This project furthers all three major goals of the community as outlined in the Shelburne Forward Together Community Visit Report and Action Plan, December 2023.
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Colchester Lands
O’Brien Brothers owns approximately 200 acres immediately adjacent to Exit 17 in Colchester.
The firm is in the conceptual stages of planning for a thoughtful and well-designed residential community that focuses on clustered development, offering a significant agricultural component as well as a variety of residential opportunities.
As always, O’Brien Brothers will approach this site with a thoughtful and holistic approach that takes into account town, county and statewide objectives, as well as changing demographics. Our aim is to meet not only a current need, but what the community’s and Vermont’s needs will be in the future as well.
Wildwood Estates
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10-lot residential subdivision.
Whitcomb Woods Apartments
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65-unit affordable senior housing.
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25-lot residential neighborhood.
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26 estate lot residential subdivision.
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47-unit residential townhouse complex.
South Saint Paul Townhouses
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17-lot residential subdivision.
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4-lot residential subdivision.
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4-unit residential condominium building.
O’Brien Farm Phase III: Remaining Lands
O’Brien Brothers is in the conceptual planning phases for the remaining 90+ acres of O’Brien Farm lands in South Burlington. The objective of this project is to create a true mixed-use neighborhood that provides a variety of living options, as well as supporting amenities such as shopping, dining, and employment opportunities, along with a potential senior housing property and a hotel.
This site is surrounded by existing development patterns. It is a short drive from the University of Vermont and UVM Medical Center’s main campus, and is immediately adjacent to the outpatient campus at Mountain View Park. It is close to downtown Burlington and primary transportation infrastructure, including Interstate 89, Burlington International Airport (BTV), and the Green Mountain Transit public transportation system.
The goal of this project is thoughtful and well-designed development that meets community, regional and statewide needs while delivering residents and businesses real value — creating a true sense of place.
O’Brien Farm Phase II: Multifamily
O'Brien Farm Road, South Burlington, Vermont
O’Brien Brothers is in the planning phases of a six-lot multifamily building project located within our existing permitted Master Plan in the heart of South Burlington. The project will consist of approximately 300 rental units and accompanying amenities in attractive, modern, and well-appointed apartments.
The proximity to major area employers and destinations — including the University of Vermont and UVM Medical Center, as well as local schools, shopping, dining, and other area attractions — make this site strategically located for thoughtful and well-planned development. Additionally, the new multifamily buildings will have convenient access to the immediately-adjacent pedestrian walkways that connect the O’Brien Farm site to local recreation and bike paths, as well as the Green Mountain Transit public transportation system.
This project is fully aligned with the O’Brien Brothers mission of providing high-quality development in appropriate locations that offer real value to the broader community.
82-88 Leroy Road
82-88 Leroy Road, Williston, VT, USA
Located in the strategically-sited Production Park area of Williston, Vermont, this approximately 18,000 square foot commercial building offers the benefits of abundant parking, easy access to the interstate, and the many permissible uses allowed in the Industrial Zoning District West. Combining flexibility through shipping/receiving, warehouse areas, and true office space, this building can meet the demands of a variety of potential tenants or multifaceted workspace requirements. This property features rear accessed loading docks, at-grade overhead garage doors, and the infrastructure necessary to meet both light industrial and office uses.
Property Features:
3-phase power
Multiple loading docks at rear of building
Multiple at-grade overhead garage doors at rear of building
Prominent street frontage and signage
Ease of access and maneuverability for tractor trailer vehicles
20’ overhead clearance in light industrial areas
Both open and closed office space featuring conference room area and kitchenette
Zoning designation: IZDW
Current Occupants:
Puroclean
Sid Harvey’s
Global Montello Group
Meadowlands
472 Meadowland Drive, South Burlington, VT, USA
Locate your new or growing business in a spectacular setting that offers maximum flexibility and easy access to Interstate 89.
Meadowlands Business Complex offers curbside appeal, attractive design and landscaping, and all the benefits of a modern commercial/light industrial/warehouse facility. At 50,000 square feet in total building square footage, each 5,000 square foot condominium unit offers flexibility and custom-tailored fit-up capabilities to meet your business’ specific requirements.
Just south of I-89 on Route 116 in South Burlington, Meadowlands offers an ideal Chittenden County location. It is just minutes from Burlington International Airport and the University of Vermont Medical Center, and an easy distance from downtown Burlington as well as several colleges and universities.
Disclaimer: The above information is only a partial listing of the features and disclosures relating to Meadowlands. For a complete package of information, please contact our office at 802-658-5000.
McKenzie House Families
South Burlington, VT, USA
Step into a classic Victorian house centered in the heart of downtown Burlington. McKenzie House Families consists of five delightful apartments located in a historic Victorian house designed to be affordable for families with lower incomes. Each unit consists of two-bedrooms and one bath and includes on-site parking and laundry.
McKenzie House Families is located within walking distance of the post office, banks, outdoor recreational areas and the YMCA. It is also within minutes of the GMT transit station on St. Paul St., providing easy access to the Greater Burlington Area.
O’Brien Brothers offers a spectacular maintenance team with 24-hour on-call service. Garbage removal and grounds maintenance are also included. Pets allowed with some restrictions.
For more information on McKenzie House Families and unit availability, click here.
McKenzie House Apartments
43 Elmwood Avenue, Burlington, VT, USA
McKenzie House Apartments is conveniently located in downtown Burlington, just a block away from the Church Street Marketplace and a short walk from stunning Lake Champlain.This low-income housing complex provides 36 federally assisted apartments for eligible seniors and people with disabilities. McKenzie House offers a delightful home for those looking for independent living within a friendly and close-knit community. The building is within minutes of the GMT transit station providing easy access to the Greater Burlington Area.
All units are one-bedroom, one-bathroom, and feature a spacious living room, on-site laundry and a community room that includes a kitchen, sitting area and a screened-in porch perfect for gathering with friends, family and fellow residents. McKenzie House also provides a range of seasonal activities organized throughout the year by staff and residents.
All utilities are included along with on-site parking, garbage removal, a community garden and grounds maintenance and snow plowing. O’Brien Brothers offers a fantastic maintenance team with a 24 hour on-call service. Pets are allowed with some restrictions.
For more information on McKenzie House Apartments and to apply to the Waitlist, click here.
Country Park Apartments
634 Hinesburg Road, South Burlington, VT, USA
Take it easy at this homey apartment community. Country Park is a federally assisted, low-income community for qualified seniors and those with disabilities. Located on three lovely acres of land in South Burlington, the building features 76 apartments, both one and two-bedroom, connected across three floors by an elevator. This apartment complex features a secured entrance, on-site parking, and a laundry room. Residents have access to a spacious community room, garden plots and various activities organized throughout the year by our staff and residents.
Country Park is located conveniently in South Burlington with the shopping center only a short drive or bus ride away. It is also and the within a few miles of Timberlane Medical and the UVM Medical Center. O’Brien Brothers offers a spectacular maintenance team with a 24 hour on-call service. Utilities, trash removal and grounds maintenance are included. Pets are allowed with some restrictions.
For more information on Country Park Apartments and unit availability, click here.
South Burlington Rentals: Hayes Apartments
635 Hinesburg Road, South Burlington, VT, USA
Make the newly constructed and beautiful Hayes Apartments your new home. You’ll feel delighted to show it off! This apartment complex is the complete package with high-end finishes such as stylish light fixtures, a spacious kitchen, and large windows which provide magnificent natural light. Hayes apartments offers an on-site community garden and welcoming outdoor spaces.
Hayes Apartments is nestled in a lovely neighborhood located just off the GMT bus line at the intersection of Kennedy Drive and Hinesburg Road. Access to the University Mall, Burlington International Airport, and a variety of medical facilities such as Timberlane and University of Vermont Medical Center are just minutes away.
Hayes Apartments offers one-bedroom, one-bathroom units with features such as stainless-steel appliances, washer and dryer hook-ups in first floor units, and on-site complimentary laundry. Also included is on-site parking for two cars, trash removal and grounds maintenance. O’Brien Brothers offers a fantastic maintenance team with a 24 hour on-call service. Tenants are responsible for electricity. Approved pets are allowed with documentation requirements and monthly pet rent.
For more information on Hayes Apartments and unit availability, click here.
South Burlington Apartment Rentals: Chatham Green
629-633 Hinesburg Road, South Burlington, VT, USA
Chatham Green offers ample space, well-lit interiors and coveted outdoor areas. Situated at the intersection of Kennedy Drive and Hinesburg Road, this quaint apartment complex is an ideal location close to both the South Burlington and Burlington city centers. You will be in minutes of the Burlington International Airport and a short drive away from the South Burlington shopping center and the UVM Medical Center.
All units are two-bedroom, two-bathroom, featuring a dishwasher, microwave, central air and an in-unit washer and dryer. Also included is on-site parking for two cars (one car garage plus one assigned parking space), trash removal and grounds maintenance. O’Brien Brothers offers a spectacular maintenance team with a 24 hour on-call service. Tenants are responsible for electricity and gas. Approved pets are allowed with documentation requirements and monthly pet rent.
For more information on Chatham Green apartments and unit availability, click here.
South Burlington Rentals: Rye Apartments
638 Hinesburg Road, South Burlington, VT, USA
Rye offers comfortable and convenient living with bright and modern styles. Located near the intersection of Kennedy Drive and Hinesburg Road, Rye apartments is a short drive away from both the South Burlington and Burlington city centers. You will be minutes from the Burlington International Airport and the South Burlington shopping center as well as the University of Vermont campus and medical center.
Each one- or two-bedroom unit features modern appliances, including a dishwasher, as well as heating and air conditioning. On-site complimentary laundry and parking are included as well as trash removal and grounds maintenance. Tenants are responsible for electricity. Approved pets are allowed with documentation requirements and monthly pet rent.
For more information on Rye Apartments and unit availability, click here.
Immigration and Naturalization Building
South Burlington, VT, USA
Class A commercial office space.
74-80 Armand Lane
74-80 Armand Lane, Williston, VT, USA
Featuring over 13,000 square feet of light industrial and office space, this building offers flexibility and value in a convenient and easily accessible location. Situated in the Production Park area of Williston, this building features loading docks and at-grade overhead garage doors, and is perfectly situated for a variety of uses. It has plenty of parking and a storage area in the adjacent lot, as well as maneuverability and access for industrial and tractor trailer vehicles. The property also offers tenants access to a 3-sided covered shed to keep materials and equipment out of the elements.
Property Features:
3-phase power
Multiple loading docks at rear of building
Multiple at-grade overhead garage doors at rear of building
Prominent street frontage and signage
Ease of access and maneuverability for tractor trailer vehicles
20’ overhead clearance
Zoning designation: IZDW
Current Occupant:
Viking Cives
71-73 Armand Lane
71-73 Armand Lane, Williston, VT, USA
At just over 14,000 square feet, this light industrial property offers tenants a variety of uses including office, shipping/receiving, R&D, brewery, distillery, and certain retail uses, among others. The building features front elevation-accessed loading docks and at-grade overhead garage doors, as well as mezzanine storage space. Additionally, the property offers tenants the ability to store equipment and materials on-site, protected from the elements via a three-sided covered shed facility. It features a large parking lot with plenty of maneuverability and access for tractor trailer trucks. Conveniently located in the Production Park light industrial area of Williston, Vermont and within the Industrial Zoning District West.
Property Features:
3-phase power
Multiple loading docks
Multiple at-grade overhead garage doors
Prominent street frontage and signage
Ease of access and maneuverability for tractor trailer vehicles
20’ overhead clearance
Mezzanine space available for storage
Exterior lean-to structure for partially covered storage area
Zoning designation: IZDW
Current Occupants:
TSL Snowshoes
Haun Welding Supply
O’Brien Brothers property maintenance
124 Leroy Road
124 Leroy Road, Williston, VT, USA
This approximately 33,000 square foot commercial office building and processing facility offers tenants ample parking, as well as ease of access for large industrial vehicles to its multiple loading docks and at-grade overhead garage doors. The property is easily accessible from Interstate 89 — an advantage for both for shipping and receiving purposes and commuting efficiency for employees and visitors. This property features abundant security and ventilation systems as well as a state-of-the-art processing facility. Located in the desirable and well-designed Production Park commercial area of Williston.
Property Features:
3-phase power
Multiple loading docks at rear of building
Multiple at-grade overhead garage doors at rear of building
Prominent street frontage and signage
Ease of access and maneuverability for tractor trailer vehicles
20’ overhead clearance
Zoning designation: IZDW
Current Occupant:
General Services Administration (Federal government function)
1354-1366 Marshall Avenue
1354 Marshall Avenue, Williston, VT, USA
This 20,000 square foot commercial building offers tenants a unique combination of hard-to-find retail visibility combined with light industrial and other permissible uses. Perfect for certain uses that require a limited retail component to service a primary purpose such as manufacturing, brewing, distilling, or light industrial. Fantastic street presence and ease of access are coupled with rear-accessed loading docks, at-grade overhead garage doors, and additional infrastructure to support light industrial uses.
Property Features:
3-phase power
Multiple loading docks at rear of building
Multiple at-grade overhead garage doors at rear of building
Prominent street frontage and signage
Ease of access and maneuverability for tractor trailer vehicles
20’ overhead clearance
Zoning designation: IZDW
Current Occupants:
O’Reilly Auto Parts (auto parts retailer)
Swish (wholesale janitorial products)
Crate Escape (pet daycare and boarding)
Sunrun (residential solar installer)
1801 Williston Road
1801 Williston Road, Williston, VT, USA
This property sits at the intersection of Kennedy Drive and Williston Road in the heart of South Burlington, conveniently across the street from Burlington International Airport (BTV). There are few better-located sites in Vermont for a gas station and convenience store, which is why this location has thrived for decades in this use. Grandfathered entitlements make this property uniquely suited for success in the years and decades to come.
Property Features:
Highly trafficked intersection
Multiple access points on to Williston Road (Route 2) and Kennedy Drive
Grandfathered entitlements not allowed elsewhere
Exceptional visibility
Current Occupant:
Maplefields (gas station and convenience store)
145-149 Leroy Road
145-149 Leroy Road, Williston, VT, USA
This 22,000 square foot research and development facility has been significantly upgraded to provide tenants with an abundance of electrical and mechanical infrastructure. Conveniently and strategically located within the Production Park commercial and industrial area of Williston, Vermont, this property is uniquely suited to host R&D, data centers, and laboratory space, all with accessory office components.
Property Features:
4-phase, 1000 amp power
Multiple loading docks at rear of building
Multiple at-grade overhead garage doors at rear of building
Prominent street frontage and signage
Ample customer parking
20’ overhead clearance
Zoning designation: IZDW
Current Occupant:
SOH Wind Engineering (R&D)
71 Leroy Road
71 Leroy Road, Williston, VT, USA
This 21,600 square foot warehouse and shipping/receiving facility offers tenants a variety of configuration possibilities, as well as easy access to Interstate 89 and the rest of Chittenden County. The property features multiple loading docks and at-grade overhead garage doors, along with covered storage sheds for outdoor storage purposes. This is a well-maintained property whose entire parking and shipping and receiving areas were fully repaved in 2017. Located within the desirable and well-designed Production Park commercial and industrial area of Williston.
Property Features:
3-phase power
Multiple loading docks at rear of building
Multiple at-grade overhead garage doors at rear of building
Prominent street frontage and signage
Ease of access and maneuverability for tractor trailer vehicles
20’ overhead clearance
Zoning designation: IZDW
Current Occupant:
Harvey Industries (building supplies)
992-996 South Brownell
992-996 South Brownell Road, Williston, VT, USA
This approximately 12,000 square foot pre-engineered metal and masonry light industrial and office building is located in Williston, Vermont’s Industrial Zoning District West. Strategically located nearby Interstate 89 Exit 12 and Taft Corners Shopping Area, 992-996 South Brownell offers tenants prominent street frontage, attractive landscaping, and a well-maintained building for a variety of light industrial, auto repair, shipping/receiving, and office space requirements. Located within the desirable and well-designed Production Park commercial and industrial area of Williston.
Property Features:
3-phase power
Multiple loading docks at rear of building
Multiple at-grade overhead garage doors at rear of building
Prominent street frontage and signage
Ample customer parking
20’ overhead clearance
Zoning designation: IZDW
Current Occupant:
Blondin Brothers (auto repair)
Disclaimer:
The above information is only a partial listing of the features and disclosures relating to Meadowlands. For a complete package of information, please contact our office at 802-658-5000.
1855 Williston Road
1855 Williston Road, South Burlington, VT, USA
Strategically located near Burlington International Airport (BTV), Interstate 89, the University of Vermont and the UVM Medical Center, this office building and retail banking facility offers tenants a highly prominent and visible location in an attractive and well-designed space. In addition to its favorable location and abundant parking, this property features a drive-through retail window which is one of the few allowable locations in South Burlington where this is permissible. Located at the intersection of the highly-trafficked Williston Road and Kennedy Drive intersections, this property offers great street and signage presence for customer-facing businesses, as well as a convenient and easily-accessed site for employee commutes.
Property Features:
Multiple direct access points onto both Williston Road and Kennedy Drive
Oversized windows offering ample natural light
Prominent and highly visible signage opportunities
Drive-through window for retail banking purposes
Onsite property management
Abundant parking
Mature and attractive landscaping
Current Occupants:
O’Brien Brothers
TD Bank
American Tax
Horace Mann
Consolidated Communications
Would you like more information?
Our team at O'Brien Brothers is available to answer any questions you may have concerning our properties.