Zoning battle ignites over high density development proposal

In a recent government meeting, planners discussed a proposed zoning change for properties located at 3052 East and 3150 East Immigration Canyon Road. The applicant seeks to rezone the area from Foothills Residential (FR 2) to High Density Multifamily Residential (RMF 75), which would significantly increase the development potential from approximately 12 single-family units to a maximum of 335 multifamily units.

City planner Chrissy Gilmore presented the case, highlighting the unique characteristics of the site, which is currently vacant and situated at the eastern edge of Salt Lake City. The area is bordered by other FR 2 properties and RMF 40 properties, with access primarily from Immigration Canyon Road. The topography and access limitations create functional separation from the surrounding neighborhood.

Staff recommendations indicated a denial of the rezoning petition, citing concerns over the potential impact on the foothills and the absence of specific design guidelines that govern the FR 2 zone. The FR 2 zone allows for a maximum building height of 28 feet, while the RMF 75 zone permits heights up to 75 feet and a broader range of uses, including multifamily housing and assisted living facilities.

The discussion also noted that developments exceeding 199 units would require two access roads, which could complicate the project due to additional permitting requirements. This stipulation may ultimately limit the development potential of the site, suggesting that any future project would likely remain below the maximum density proposed.

The meeting underscored the ongoing debate over land use and development in the area, balancing the need for housing against the preservation of the foothills' natural landscape.