Tulsa planners discuss zoning change for six cottage homes in Lewiston Gardens

In a recent meeting of the Tulsa Metropolitan Area Planning Commission, a significant discussion centered around the urgent need for housing in the Tulsa area, highlighting a projected demand for 12,900 new housing units over the next decade. Current production rates average only 830 units per year, prompting officials to explore alternative housing solutions beyond traditional single-family subdivisions.

One proposed solution is the development of cottage homes, which resemble single-family houses but are designed to be placed around shared green spaces rather than in cul-de-sacs. This approach aims to increase housing density in a way that aligns with the city’s planning goals while maintaining the neighborhood's character. The commission recommended approval of a zoning change that would allow for this type of development, which could provide six units on a currently vacant lot.

The applicant, Jeremy Wilkinson, expressed his commitment to developing these cottage homes, emphasizing that they would be sold individually rather than rented out long-term. He noted that the design would include a mandatory homeowners association (HOA) to manage shared spaces and maintenance, ensuring that the development remains well-kept.

However, the proposal faced opposition from nearby residents, who voiced concerns about the potential disruption to the single-family neighborhood. A petition with nearly 100 signatures was presented, arguing that the development would be more akin to an apartment complex than the single-family homes that have historically characterized the area. Opponents believe that maintaining the existing zoning would better serve the community's interests.

The discussions at the meeting underscored the balancing act that city planners must navigate: addressing the pressing housing shortage while respecting the established character of neighborhoods. As the commission moves forward, the outcomes of these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping Tulsa's housing landscape in the coming years.