Midvale City Council hears public concerns on proposed high-density apartment complex

The Midvale City Council meeting on May 20, 2025, focused on a proposed residential overlay zone for a new high-density apartment complex, sparking significant public concern regarding safety, traffic, and community impact.

During the meeting, council members discussed the implications of the project, which is intended to provide market-rate housing. However, many residents voiced their opposition, citing potential dangers associated with increased traffic in the area, particularly near Hillcrest High School. Concerns were raised about the safety of pedestrians, especially teenagers, navigating busy streets that are already prone to congestion.

Public comments highlighted a range of issues, including the adequacy of traffic studies and the need for a comprehensive analysis of the development's impact on local infrastructure. Residents argued that the proposed high-rise would exacerbate existing traffic problems and compromise public safety. Several speakers emphasized the importance of a development agreement to ensure that the project aligns with community needs and safety standards.

Megan Thierin, a local teacher, urged the council to deny the request for the overlay zone, stressing that the development could lead to accidents and injuries. Other residents echoed her sentiments, expressing frustration over the lack of commitment from the developer regarding the project's specifics and its potential effects on the neighborhood.

The developer, Ida Bakumian, defended the project, stating that they had considered various options and aimed to create a development that would benefit the community. She emphasized the importance of a development agreement to ensure accountability and adherence to community standards.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that many residents felt their concerns had not been adequately addressed, leading to calls for further review and consideration before any decisions were made. The council is expected to deliberate on the proposal, weighing the potential benefits of increased housing against the community's safety and quality of life.