City Council Approves 61 Townhome Development with Retail and Service Spaces

The Midlothian Planning and Zoning Commission meeting on August 19, 2025, focused on a proposed development plan that includes a community retail area and vertical mixed-use buildings. The plan outlines specific zoning regulations, parking requirements, and design elements for the project.

The proposed development will feature retail and service uses on the first floor, with a parking requirement of one space per 300 square feet, totaling 90 spaces. For the multifamily units, the plan calls for two parking spaces per unit for the first 50 units, with an additional 1.75 spaces for subsequent units, resulting in a total of 208 parking spaces. The maximum building height is set at 50 feet for the mixed-use buildings and 25 feet for the clubhouse and fitness center.

The community retail area will include various non-residential uses such as restaurants, beauty salons, art studios, and medical offices, while prohibiting uses like gas stations and car washes. The development will also feature 61 townhome units on a 6.61-acre site, with a maximum height of 30 feet and a minimum common area of 1.42 acres.

Key design elements include landscaped entryways, seating areas, a playground, and outdoor athletic areas. The landscaping plan aims to preserve existing trees and includes provisions for shade trees and screening for parking lots. The applicant has communicated with nearby property owners, receiving one letter of support.

The commission emphasized the need for a detailed site plan to be submitted for further review, ensuring that the development aligns with the standards of adjacent properties. The staff recommended approval of the project, highlighting its potential to enhance the community's retail offerings while maintaining a focus on aesthetics and functionality.