City Council Approves Ambitious Mixed Use Housing Development

During a recent government meeting, significant discussions centered around housing development and zoning amendments aimed at enhancing community affordability and mixed-use opportunities.

The council addressed the ongoing financial modeling for a proposed development of 600 multifamily units, which will be rolled out in three phases. The first two phases are designed to cater to smaller families, while the third phase will introduce a for-sale concept aimed at promoting homeownership among residents in need. Council members emphasized the importance of establishing permanent affordability in these housing projects, ensuring that the properties will not be treated as commodities. This approach aims to reinvest earnings back into the properties, maintaining their value within the community.

Council member Coore raised concerns about ensuring deep affordability in the recommendations made by staff, highlighting the need for a collaborative approach as the project progresses. The council unanimously supported the motion to move forward with the housing initiative.

Additionally, the meeting included discussions on a plan amendment and zoning change for a property located at 7702 Southwest Loop 410. The proposal seeks to amend the Port San Antonio regional center plan from low-density residential to urban mixed-use, with a maximum density of 30 units per acre. While city staff recommended denial of the amendment, both the Planning Commission and Zoning Commission supported it. Notably, no public opposition was recorded, and there were no registered neighborhood associations within the vicinity.

Residents voiced their support for the mixed-use project, which includes commercial development along the Loop 410 frontage and senior living accommodations designed to be affordable and equipped with shared amenities. The developer emphasized that the project would prioritize access from the highway, minimizing impact on nearby residential areas.

The council's discussions reflect a commitment to addressing housing needs while balancing community development and affordability.