City plans major micro home development amid community concerns

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a proposal to rezone a 46.35-acre parcel of land from its current classifications of A1 (General Agriculture) and R4 (Medium Density Residential) to RP3 (Planned Residential District). This change aims to facilitate the development of micro homes on the site, which is located near the intersection of Watauga Road and East Unica Avenue.

The proposed development includes a total of 184 residential units, comprising 106 single-family homes and 78 multifamily units, which will consist of duplexes, townhomes, and apartments. The density of the project is projected at 3.97 units per acre, significantly lower than the maximum allowed under the current R4 zoning, which permits up to 14 units per acre.

During the meeting, concerns were raised by local residents regarding the potential impact of the development. Key issues included the high number of units, the proportion of multifamily housing, and worries about increased traffic congestion on Watauga Road. Residents expressed fears that the development could lead to higher crime rates, noise, and flooding, particularly due to the existing stream and wet weather conveyance area on the property.

Despite the opposition from the community, city staff recommended approval of the rezoning, arguing that it would resolve the current split zoning of the lot and align with the future land use plan, which designates the area for residential development. The concept plan also includes provisions for open space, with 20% of the area designated for this purpose, exceeding the required 15%.

The proposal will require a traffic study to assess necessary improvements to the access points and roadways before moving forward. A neighborhood meeting held prior to the government meeting saw nine attendees, all of whom voiced their opposition to the plan.

As the city moves forward with the proposal, the next steps will involve further evaluations and potential adjustments based on community feedback and traffic studies. The outcome of this rezoning request will significantly shape the future residential landscape of the area.