Stillwater Approves Adjustments for Cowboy Landing Planned Unit Development

In a recent meeting of the Stillwater City Council, significant discussions centered around the proposed Cowboy Landing planned unit development (PUD), which aims to address community needs while balancing residential density and open space. The revised site plan presented to the council reflects a reduction in proposed housing units from 42 to 32, a move that aligns with community feedback and zoning regulations.

The new plan introduces several key changes, including an increase in public parking spaces from 9 to 29, enhancing accessibility for residents and visitors. Additionally, the development will feature internal sidewalks and expanded open spaces, which may include amenities such as a dog park and potential recreational facilities. The streets have been widened to 27 feet, allowing for parallel parking, which is a notable improvement over the previous design.

One of the critical aspects of the discussion was the adjustment of zoning variances. The minimum lot area has been decreased from 5,000 to 2,400 square feet, allowing for a higher density of housing units. The gross density of the project has been adjusted to 7.9 units per acre, down from the previously requested 10.2 units per acre. This change reflects a commitment to maintaining a balance between development and community needs.

Concerns regarding utility easements along McElroy were also addressed, with assurances that the necessary right-of-way would be dedicated to facilitate future construction. The city manager highlighted the importance of connecting sidewalks to enhance community accessibility, particularly for students attending nearby schools.

The council also discussed the potential for the development to include single-story homes along the western edge, responding to community concerns about height and density. The developer expressed willingness to limit the height of these structures if it would alleviate neighborhood apprehensions.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to engaging with community feedback while navigating the complexities of urban development. The next steps involve further review of the preliminary PUD plan, with expectations for final plats and additional considerations to follow. As Stillwater continues to grow, the outcomes of these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping the city's residential landscape and ensuring it meets the needs of its residents.