News Briefs • Forensic Examination and Inf. at Oakwood Cemetery

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 7, 2024

Forensic investigation and information sessions completed at Oakwood Cemetery

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – The City of Charlottesville is pleased to announce that a series of information sessions regarding the recent results of a forensic investigation at Oakwood Cemetery has been completed. The aim of the meetings was to engage the community and inform them about identified deficiencies and planned corrective actions.

In December 2023, the City engaged the expertise of Line and Grade Civil Engineering to conduct a comprehensive forensic investigation focused on the low-lying wetlands in Oakwood Cemetery adjacent to Elliott Avenue and 1st Street South. Oakwood Cemetery covers approximately 14 acres and serves as a significant public burial site south of downtown Charlottesville.

The multi-month investigation identified various hydrological and hydraulic factors that contribute to the persistent, low-lying, wet conditions at the cemetery. Additionally, a thorough historical and cultural resource review revealed that the affected area is consistent with the historically designated “colored section” of the cemetery. This portion of Oakwood Cemetery holds the legacy of individuals whose stories and resting places risk becoming even more obscure if not mitigated.

The forensic study also highlighted the presence of documented burial sites as well as the likelihood of undocumented burial sites in the affected area. Adding to these challenges are deficiencies in stormwater infrastructure, which exacerbate the situation.

To address these issues and maintain the integrity of Oakwood Cemetery, the City of Charlottesville will begin remediation work at the site beginning the week of May 13th. The aim of the planned measures is to mitigate the negative effects of the identified factors and to preserve the historical significance of the cemetery.

As stewards of our community’s heritage, the City of Charlottesville remains committed to preserving the dignity and historical significance of Oakwood Cemetery for generations to come.

For more information, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 434-970-3260.

Media contact
Riaan Anthony
Director of Parks and Recreation
City of Charlottesville
434-970-3021
[email protected]