City plans major mixed-use development to boost housing and jobs

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a proposed amendment to the general plan that would change the land use designation of a 19-acre vacant property located at the northwest corner of 99th Avenue and Glendale Avenue from planned commercial and business park to entertainment mixed use. The property, situated within the Yucca District, is currently part of two planned area developments, including the Westgate Healthcare Campus and the 99th Avenue in Glendale development.

The proposal includes a zoning classification change to planned area development, allowing for a multifamily residential project and a commercial building. The multifamily development will be executed in three phases, with the first two phases comprising 239 residential units, offering a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments. The project aims to provide amenities such as a pool, fitness center, and recreational facilities, including a putting green and pickleball court.

Access to the site will be facilitated through multiple entry points along Myrtle Avenue, Glendale Avenue, and 99th Avenue, ensuring connectivity for both residents and commercial users. A buffer zone with an 8-foot block wall and a 15-foot landscaping area will separate the multifamily units from the commercial space.

The planning staff highlighted the importance of this amendment in addressing the city's need for quality housing and employment opportunities, particularly in an area undergoing significant transition. The proposal received positive feedback during a neighborhood meeting held on November 29, 2023, with no significant concerns raised by attendees.

The planning staff has recommended approval for both the general plan amendment and the zoning classification change, emphasizing that the development aligns with the surrounding land uses and supports the overall welfare of Glendale's residents.