Suffolk Planning Commission reviews rezoning request for Harbour Town Parkway development

A significant rezoning request took center stage at the Suffolk Planning Commission meeting on March 18, 2025, as officials discussed the proposal to change the zoning of a 18.95-acre property at 7250 Harbour Town Parkway from a mixed-use development overlay to a residential urban district. The request, identified as RZN2024-014, aims to establish 344 residential units, including multifamily apartments and townhouses.

City planner Gonzalo Borges presented the staff report, highlighting that the area is currently designated for mixed-use development, which includes commercial and medical facilities. Borges emphasized that the proposed change does not align with the city’s comprehensive plan, which encourages a variety of land uses and master-planned developments. He noted that the addition of 288 multifamily units would contradict existing plans that already allow for 500 multifamily units in the vicinity.

The proposal has sparked concerns regarding its impact on the community and the potential alteration of the Harborview Station master plan, which was previously approved with specific design guidelines. Borges recommended denial of the rezoning request, stating that it fails to meet the objectives of the city’s long-term planning goals.

During the public hearing, supporters of the project, including representatives from the development team, expressed their views, but the planning commission's decision will ultimately hinge on the alignment of the proposal with the city’s established plans and community needs. The outcome of this request could significantly shape the future development landscape of Suffolk, as the commission prepares to make its recommendation to the city council.