In a recent city government meeting, officials discussed a proposal to rezone a historic area near East 7th Street to facilitate the construction of multifamily housing. The site, which consists of six parcels of land acquired over several decades, presents unique challenges due to its steep elevation changes—approximately 35 feet from the lowest to the highest points—and its proximity to notable landmarks, including the Greater Praise Temple.

The applicant aims to combine the parcels to create a larger development site for 16 multifamily units across four buildings, each containing four units. The proposed units would average 1,500 square feet and include a mix of three-bedroom and one-bedroom layouts, with garage access from 7th Street and patio spaces facing 6th Street and the Mississippi River.

City staff expressed concerns regarding the proposed building height, which could reach up to 70 feet under the new zoning designation. They recommended limiting the height to 35 feet to maintain the character of the surrounding neighborhood. Additionally, while the current zoning allows for a maximum density of 20 units, staff suggested capping the development at 16 units to alleviate potential traffic congestion and safety issues on the narrow, steep streets.

Public input revealed significant neighborhood opposition, with residents raising concerns about the density, traffic, and the preservation of the historic street. A formal protest petition with 11 signatures was submitted, highlighting the community's preference for single-family homes and homeownership over rental units.

Despite the opposition, city staff recommended approval of the rezoning, contingent upon the proposed conditions regarding building height and unit density. The meeting underscored the ongoing tension between development needs and community preservation, as officials navigate the complexities of urban growth in historically significant areas.