City plans major infrastructure overhaul to meet growth demands

In a recent government meeting, city officials discussed significant updates to land use assumptions and infrastructure improvement plans, focusing on the impact of multifamily and industrial developments. Brian, a key speaker, highlighted the adjustments made to projections based on stakeholder feedback, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with master developers to refine impact fee structures.

The meeting outlined a timeline for public hearings set to begin in October, where the community will have the opportunity to engage with the proposed changes. The city anticipates a substantial increase in housing units, projecting approximately 29,500 new units over the next decade, which could accommodate an additional 86,000 residents. This growth is expected to be driven by a mix of single-family and multifamily housing, with adjustments made to reflect current development trends.

Officials also addressed employment projections, forecasting an increase of nearly 24,000 jobs by 2034, which they believe will significantly impact the local economy. The discussion included a detailed examination of infrastructure costs associated with capital improvements, with a focus on differentiating fees for parks, streets, and utilities based on usage and demand.

A notable change in methodology for water and wastewater fees was introduced, aiming to better align charges with actual demand from high water users. This adjustment is part of a broader effort to ensure that future developments contribute fairly to the costs of infrastructure, particularly as the city experiences growth.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing evaluation of occupancy rates and housing trends, ensuring that future planning remains responsive to the evolving needs of the community. The city encourages residents to access the published land use assumptions and infrastructure improvement plans available on its website for further information.