Prescott Council considers multifamily rezoning for Marina Street apartment complex

The Prescott City Council convened on May 13, 2025, to discuss a significant rezoning request that could reshape the local housing landscape. The proposal involves a 0.6-acre site within a larger 3.279-acre project, currently zoned for single-family homes, which the developers seek to rezone to high-density multifamily housing. This change aims to align the zoning with surrounding properties and address the pressing need for more housing options in Prescott.

Key to the proposal is a minor general plan amendment that would elevate the density classification from low to medium-high. The developers have made adjustments since the last council meeting, notably removing a proposed senior unit and redistributing the overall density to ensure all buildings are three stories tall. This redesign has also allowed for an increase in parking spaces from 153 to 180, addressing previous concerns from council members and residents about adequate parking.

Council members expressed mixed feelings about the project. While some praised the increased parking and the removal of a building that could obstruct sight lines, others voiced concerns about the height of the buildings and the overall impact on the neighborhood's character. Public comments reflected a range of opinions, with some residents advocating for the project as a necessary step toward meeting housing demands, while others criticized it for potentially disrupting the community's aesthetic and increasing traffic.

Supporters of the rezoning emphasized the need for affordable housing, particularly for young families and professionals, citing the rising cost of living in Prescott. They argued that the project would contribute to a vibrant downtown and support local businesses by increasing the residential population.

Opponents raised concerns about the project's compliance with existing zoning codes, particularly regarding parking placement and hillside development standards. They argued that the proposed site plan may not be feasible given the topography of the area and called for adherence to city codes to ensure the development fits harmoniously within the neighborhood.

As the council deliberates, the outcome of this rezoning request could significantly influence Prescott's housing market and community dynamics. The council is expected to weigh the benefits of increased housing availability against the potential impacts on the neighborhood's character and infrastructure. The decision will be pivotal in shaping Prescott's growth and addressing the ongoing housing crisis in the region.