In a recent Planning Commission meeting, officials discussed significant changes to land use and zoning in the South Logan area as part of the South Logan Transit Oriented Development (TOD) project. The proposal, which encompasses approximately 361 acres and 604 parcels, aims to enhance the area surrounding three newly opened bus rapid transit stations, leveraging public transit to encourage higher density residential development.

Casey Downey from the Planning and Economic Development department outlined the plan, which seeks to consolidate the current six land uses into four, thereby streamlining zoning regulations. The proposed changes include extending the center and corridor land use, removing general commercial designations, and increasing residential intensity. This initiative follows the recent approval of development code changes by the city council, which were designed to facilitate this second phase of implementation.

The plan is rooted in the South Logan TOD plan adopted by the city council in January, which envisions a more cohesive and consistent development strategy for the area. Downey emphasized that while the changes will affect the majority of parcels, existing uses will remain unaffected, allowing current residential homes to continue without disruption.

Public safety concerns were raised during the meeting, particularly from local business owners, but no objections were noted regarding the proposed land uses or zoning changes. The commission acknowledged these concerns and committed to documenting them as part of the ongoing planning process.

Overall, the South Logan TOD project represents a strategic effort to revitalize the area, promote sustainable growth, and enhance public transit accessibility, with the expectation of gradual, incremental changes rather than immediate transformations.