City develops new zoning plan for Dudley residential and retail areas

The Wheat Ridge City Council held a study session on June 16, 2025, focusing on urban planning and zoning regulations for a new development area. The meeting provided an overview of the proposed layout and zoning designations for the site, which includes various residential and commercial components.

The discussion began with a detailed presentation of the zoning map, highlighting areas designated for lower density residential housing in yellow, which will include duplexes and single-family homes. The plan mandates that these homes maintain a design similar to adjacent properties. The light blue area along Dudley is designated for residential lots with a minimum width of 50 feet and a height limitation of 30 feet, allowing for one-and-a-half-story buildings. Importantly, all driveways will be accessed from the east side, ensuring that Dudley remains free of driveway interruptions.

Central to the development is a darker blue area designated for townhomes, strategically placed to concentrate higher densities in the middle of the site. The plan also includes tan areas for higher density multifamily housing. A civic area is proposed along 38th Avenue, which may utilize portions of the old hospital, offering potential for community services and architectural features.

Additionally, the plan outlines a requirement for a minimum of 10,000 square feet of retail space as part of the overall community development. Open spaces and green belts are integrated throughout the site, enhancing the community's recreational offerings.

The presentation concluded with visual representations of the site from various perspectives, illustrating the planned layout and density transitions from lower to higher densities. The council members were invited to ask questions, indicating an ongoing dialogue about the development's impact on the community.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to thoughtful urban planning, balancing residential needs with commercial opportunities and community spaces. Further discussions and refinements to the plan are expected as the project progresses.