Cumberland Park developers seek zoning amendment for multifamily housing project

In a recent Planning and Zoning Meeting held on March 4, 2025, Tyler City officials discussed a significant proposal to amend the concept plan for the Cumberland Park development. The applicant is seeking to change the zoning of a portion of the property to allow for multifamily residential use, a move that has sparked both interest and concern among local residents.

The Cumberland Park area was originally rezoned in February 2003, following extensive community outreach and multiple revisions. The current zoning includes a mix of Planned Commercial District (PCD), Restricted Professional Office (RPO), and an agricultural buffer designed to separate residential areas from commercial developments. The proposed amendment aims to rezone part of this area from Agricultural (AG), RPO, and PCD to Planned Multifamily (PMF), which would facilitate the construction of 251 single-family and duplex units at a density of approximately 6.2 units per acre.

A key aspect of the proposal is the intention to maintain a 50-foot landscape buffer along the north side of the property, while absorbing the agricultural buffer on the east side. However, this eastern section is largely within a floodplain, limiting its development potential. The applicant has indicated that the initial phase of development will consist solely of single-story units, with plans for a gated community that includes access to Centennial Parkway.

Community feedback has been mixed. A community meeting held on February 25 revealed that while one notice was returned in favor of the project, three were opposed, reflecting concerns about the impact on the natural landscape and overall development in the area. The opposition represents approximately 3.96% of the protest calculation, indicating a notable but not overwhelming dissent.

City staff conducted a technical review of the proposal and found it consistent with approval criteria, recommending the approval of both the concept plan amendment and the rezoning request. The applicant will need to return for further approvals if they wish to proceed with additional phases of development in the future.

As Tyler City continues to navigate the complexities of urban development, this proposal highlights the ongoing balancing act between growth and community concerns. The outcome of this amendment could set a precedent for future developments in the area, making it a critical issue for local stakeholders.