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Commission recommends denial of NW Twelfth Street right-of-way closure amid concerns about inconsistent easements
Summary
The commission recommended denying CE 11-43, a proposal to close part of NW Twelfth Street right-of-way to create an additional townhome unit. Commissioners cited irregular easements, future right-of-way needs and precedent concerns.
The Oklahoma City Planning Commission on Aug. 28 recommended denial of CE 11-43, a request to close a portion of the NW Twelfth Street right-of-way adjacent to Lots 22 and 23 in Block 3 of Clasen's Marquette Addition. The applicant said the vacation would permit an additional unit in an eight-unit townhome scheme; the applicant’s architect said the extra land would allow a ninth unit and a denser, more efficient design.
Commissioner Govine moved to recommend approval, seconded by Commissioner Harrison, but the motion failed. Commissioner LaForge then moved to recommend denial; Commissioner Powers seconded that motion and the commission recommended denial.
Why it mattered: Commissioners repeatedly cautioned against piecemeal right-of-way vacations. Multiple members raised concerns about inconsistent easements on the block, and the potential future need for a continuous public right-of-way.
Public comments and staff guidance: The architect for the applicant described an eight-unit townhome project that could gain a ninth unit if the small strip of right-of-way were vacated. Commissioner Privett and others said right-of-way land is a public asset intended to support future circulation, utilities and safety needs. “Right of ways are for a good reason,” Commissioner Privett said during deliberations.
Chair and commissioners noted the block contained varying easements and a demolished corner property; that did not persuade a majority. Commissioners suggested the applicant instead seek support from adjacent property owners and pursue a more comprehensive plan if the vacation is critical to the development.
Outcome and next steps: The commission’s recommendation to deny will go to City Council. The applicant may present revised plans or attempt to obtain voluntary rights from adjacent owners before pursuing further vacation requests.
Provenance: Applicant presentation began at 00:39:04; votes on the vacation are recorded at 00:44:26 and 00:45:23 in the transcript.
