City Council approves rezoning at 5 Mile Road for proposed 45-unit townhome project amid neighborhood opposition

City Council on Tuesday approved a rezoning of about 2.22 acres at 2911 North 5 Mile Road from R-1C (residential traditional) to R-2 (residential compact), clearing the way for a conceptual 45-unit, townhome-style development.

The decision followed a public hearing in which planning staff described the parcel as being within the Ustick and 5 Mile Neighborhood Activity Center and said the rezone meets the city’s criteria for a zoning change. “The proposed rezone is anticipated to accommodate a 45 unit townhome style multifamily development,” planning staffer Madison Lockhorn said during the hearing.

The rezoning matters because the city’s comprehensive plan designates the site as mixed use and the R-2 zone is intended to form a transitional buffer between arterial mixed-use corridors and lower-density neighborhoods. Supporters said the location’s proximity to transit, schools and Comba Park fit long-range city goals for compact, walkable housing near services.

Planning staff told council that the rezoning request was limited to…