Henrico approves plan for Short Pump mosque

ENRICO, Va. -- After hearing neighborhood residents complain about potential safety problems and other issues, the Henrico County Planning Commission on Wednesday unanimously approved plans for a mosque in the Short Pump area.

The West End Islamic Center plans to build a 35,141-square-foot mosque with space for worship, a day-care center, classrooms, a kitchen, office space and a conference room.

Representatives for the center said construction is probably about three years away as the center raises funds for the $3.5 million building on about 4.8 acres where Shady Grove and Twin Hickory roads intersect.

The mosque is the third to earn approval from Henrico's planners.

Ground was broken recently for a 10,500-square-foot mosque on 3.6 acres on Impala Drive near Hilliard Road. A 30,277-square-foot mosque on a 5.2-acre lot on Hungary Road near Wiltshire Drive has been approved. (...)