College Station Planning and Zoning Commission Tackles Middle Housing Access

Planning and Zoning Commission Eyes Expansion of Middle Housing in College Station

COLLEGE STATION, Texas – A closer inspection of the feasibility of middle housing expansion in College Station was the hot topic at a Planning and Zoning (P&Z) Commission meeting held on Thursday. Specifically, properties that fall in between large apartments and single-family homes such as duplexes, townhouses, and triplexes were discussed.

The commission presented its recommendations to the city council seeking approval to rezone two specific areas. The first one is situated along Park Place and Boardwalk Court, with the other area being located along Turner Street.

Possible Solution to Rapid City Growth

City officials believe the suggested rezoning could help ease the tension created by the city’s overwhelming growth. Additionally, it provides a viable solution towards generating more affordable housing options. The areas under discussion are currently identified as General Suburban (GS), but they could morph into middle housing with a High Occupancy Overlay (HOO) if the council endorses the proposal.

Being in close proximity to Texas A&M University, much of the surrounding infrastructural development is already prescribed for high-density occupancy. “You have a semblance of being around the university, and student housing, at the same time, you have single-family and multi-family,” said P&Z commission member Bobby Mirza.

Preservation of Natural Areas

The Park Place location could receive an additional designation as a Natural Areas Protected. “For the full floodplain area along the back portion of a few properties,” senior planner Jeff Howell stated. This would permit nature conservation efforts and ensures the area is unlikely to undergo heavy development in the future.

“A certain part of development is also dedicated to the greens, and we’re trying to maintain some semblance of environmental at the same time,” added Mirza.

City Council To Decide on Rezoning Request

The selection of these areas followed an extensive land survey and public feedback sessions carried out earlier this year. A final decision from the city council on the rezoning request is expected at the September 12 gathering.