Planning board recommends denser zoning for 1005 West Lloyd Street

The City of Pensacola Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend approval of a zoning map and future land-use amendment for 1005 West Lloyd Street, a 21,000-square-foot parcel proposed for a shift from R1AAA (low-density residential) to R1A (medium-density residential).

Developer Constantine Belai, who identified himself at the hearing, told the board his firm aims to subdivide the parcel into five 30-foot-wide lots for single-family homes and described the proposal as an affordability and infill strategy. "I'm passionate about affordability, I'm passionate about smart development," Belai said, describing past projects nearby that sold quickly and appealing to buyers.

Planning staff clarified that the request is strictly a density change and would not permit commercial uses. The property sits in the CRA Urban Design overlay, meaning any new development would be subject to aesthetic review and siting standards, including requirements for rear alley vehicle access and specified glazing and height limits.

Board members weighed neighborhood context and the idea of an "orderly progression" of density, noting the parcel sits adjacent to existing R1A zoning and that the proposed designation aligns with nearby blocks. After limited discussion the board moved and seconded a recommendation to City Council; the motion carried unanimously. Planner Harding said staff expects to place the item on City Council agendas later in July and August for final consideration.

If the council approves the change, the applicant said the intent is to subdivide and build single-family homes under the R1A rules; any future site plans will return for applicable reviews under the CRA overlay requirements. The Planning Board’s action is a recommendation, not a final approval by ordinance; City Council decides the next step.