Roanoke Planning Commission approves zoning reforms for diverse housing options

In the heart of Roanoke, city officials gathered on June 2, 2025, to discuss pivotal changes in housing policy aimed at addressing the community's pressing needs. The Roanoke City Council meeting, marked by a focus on inclusivity and accessibility, highlighted the ongoing efforts to reform zoning laws and expand housing options for residents.

One of the key action items discussed was the reconsideration of housing policies to eliminate exclusionary single-family districts. This move is part of a broader comprehensive plan designed to create a more equitable housing landscape in Roanoke. The Planning Commission, tasked with overseeing these changes, emphasized the importance of community engagement and thorough review processes to ensure that any amendments align with the city's long-term vision.

Planning Manager Wayne Leftwich presented encouraging data, revealing a notable increase in residential development. From March 2024 to March 2025, Roanoke saw the creation of 123 single-unit dwellings, surpassing previous years' averages. Additionally, the city is witnessing a surge in multifamily housing projects, with several large apartment complexes in the pipeline, including 768 units on Orange Avenue and 267 units in Riverdale.

The discussion also touched on the concept of "missing middle housing," which aims to provide diverse housing types, such as duplexes and accessory dwelling units, in areas that are otherwise fully developed. These changes are expected to foster a more varied and affordable housing market, addressing the community's top housing concerns identified during the comprehensive planning process.

Council members expressed a commitment to balancing the quantity of housing units with affordability, recognizing that increasing supply could help stabilize market prices. The Planning Commission's outreach efforts, which included face-to-face meetings and social media campaigns, were highlighted as essential in gathering community input and ensuring transparency in the decision-making process.

As Roanoke moves forward with these ambitious housing reforms, the city aims to create a more inclusive environment where residents have access to a range of affordable housing options. The ongoing dialogue among city officials, planning commissioners, and community members underscores a collective commitment to shaping a vibrant and equitable future for all Roanoke residents.