Commission approves first reading to rezone Pembroke Gardens for 308-unit mixed-use project with 44 affordable rentals

The Pembroke Pines City Commission on Wednesday passed on first reading two ordinances to rezone the Shops of Pembroke Gardens and adopt district design guidelines, allowing the property owner to redevelop a roughly 2.7‑acre underused parking area into a 308‑unit multifamily building.

The rezoning vote was unanimous after more than two hours of presentations and public comment. The applications included a request for 44 deed‑restricted moderate‑income rental units under Broward County policy 2.16.3 and the allocation of county “flex” units to permit residential development on land with an underlying commercial future‑land‑use designation.

Why it matters: The application changes how the 40‑acre shopping center zoned PCD (planned commercial district) may be used, allowing a substantial residential component beside existing retail and restaurants along the Pines Boulevard–I‑75 corridor. Supporters said the redevelopment would add housing options near jobs and retail; opponents and nearby residents warned it could worsen traffic and parking.

Assistant City Manager and Planning Director Mike Stamm told the commission…