Venice City Council approves density increase while reducing commercial development limits

A proposed amendment to Venice's comprehensive plan is stirring significant discussion among city council members and residents. The amendment seeks to increase residential density on a specific property from 13 to 32 dwelling units per acre while simultaneously reducing the allowed commercial development from 237,000 square feet to accommodate this change.

During the city council meeting on May 13, 2025, a representative emphasized that the amendment is not merely about increasing density but is structured as a trade-off. For every additional dwelling unit permitted, 2,000 square feet of commercial space would be eliminated. This approach aims to align the property more closely with the existing character of the neighborhood, which features higher density developments.

The representative pointed out that many nearby properties already exceed the proposed density, with some developments reaching up to 40 units per acre. They argued that the amendment would not only enhance the residential landscape but also reduce potential traffic congestion associated with commercial developments. A comparison was made, indicating that a 2,000 square foot retail space could generate traffic equivalent to 25 multifamily units.

Concerns about traffic were addressed, with assurances that a traffic study would be conducted before any development could proceed. The representative argued that the proposed changes would ultimately lead to less traffic than if the commercial space were fully developed.

The council is expected to vote on the amendment soon, with proponents arguing that it represents a necessary step towards modernizing the city’s development strategy while maintaining the community's character. The outcome of this proposal could significantly shape the future of residential and commercial development in Venice.