Lansing City Council approves Riverbend Heights subdivision for affordable housing development

The Lansing City Council convened on February 6, 2025, to discuss several key issues, primarily focusing on housing development and community planning. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for more affordable housing in Lansing, as council members noted a significant shortage of available homes in the city.

During the discussions, it was emphasized that the city currently has very few houses for sale, with reports indicating only three listings in a population of approximately 11,000. This scarcity has led to concerns about the affordability of living in Lansing, particularly for essential workers such as teachers and police officers, who are finding it increasingly difficult to reside in the community they serve.

Council members reiterated that addressing the housing crisis is a top priority, with a consensus that the city must adapt its development plans to accommodate more housing options. A proposal was presented to amend the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) to reduce minimum lot sizes in residential districts, which would facilitate the construction of smaller, more affordable homes. The proposed changes include lot widths of 50 feet in R1 districts and 40 feet in R2 districts.

The meeting also featured a discussion about the Riverbend Heights subdivision, which is in the early stages of planning. Residents expressed concerns regarding the proximity of new developments to existing properties, specifically regarding setbacks and the impact on local green spaces. The developers assured that a green space buffer would be included to mitigate any potential disturbances to neighboring homes.

As the meeting progressed, the council moved to approve a resolution to create a Residential Housing Improvement District (RHID) for the Riverbend Heights subdivision, signaling a step forward in the city’s efforts to enhance housing availability.

In conclusion, the Lansing City Council's meeting underscored the pressing need for affordable housing solutions and the importance of community input in development planning. The council's commitment to revising zoning regulations and supporting new housing projects reflects a proactive approach to addressing the city's housing challenges. Further discussions and planning will continue as the council seeks to balance development with community needs.