Planning department addresses traffic and zoning concerns for Desert Uplands project

The Mesa City Council convened on April 30, 2025, to address several pressing community issues, including public safety concerns regarding bus stops, traffic management, and residential development standards in the Desert Uplands area.

The meeting began with a discussion about the safety of children waiting at bus stops in poorly lit areas. Council members expressed concern about the lack of adequate lighting and paved shoulders at bus stops located on Hawes and McDowell Roads. One council member highlighted the dangers posed by rush hour traffic, emphasizing the need for improved safety measures to protect children in these areas.

Following this, the council turned its attention to a proposed residential development by Blamford, which has raised concerns regarding its density and the height of the homes. A council member suggested reducing the density and limiting the construction of two-story homes to address community apprehensions. The planning department was then invited to provide insights on the development's compliance with city regulations.

Evan Palmer from the planning department explained that the Desert Uplands area has specific zoning standards aimed at preserving natural open space. He noted that the proposed development would adhere to RS-15 density standards, which require developers to provide essential city utilities and maintain a portion of the site as open space. Palmer assured the council that over 20% of the site would be designated as open space, strategically arranged to minimize impact on neighboring properties.

The discussion also included the city's dark sky ordinance, which mandates light shielding to protect the natural desert environment. The planning department confirmed that any proposed lighting would comply with these requirements.

Additionally, the council addressed the need for traffic management at the intersection of Hawes and McDowell Roads. Eric, a representative from the transportation team, was asked to provide updates on potential improvements, including the possibility of installing a signalized traffic system at this busy intersection.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to addressing community safety and development concerns. The discussions highlighted the importance of balancing residential growth with the preservation of natural spaces and ensuring the safety of residents, particularly children, in the area. The council plans to continue evaluating these issues and will follow up on the proposed traffic improvements and development standards in future meetings.