Planning commission defers rezoning request for 506 Fifth Avenue East

At its Sept. 4 meeting, the Springfield Municipal Regional Planning Commission voted 9-0 to postpone consideration of a rezoning request for 506 Fifth Avenue East to allow subdivision of the existing lot into two single‑family detached homes.

The request sought to rezone the parcel (Map 080 F, Group C, Parcel 024.00) from medium‑density residential district R‑10 to high‑density residential district R‑7. Planning staff told commissioners the parcel is approximately 0.65 acres and that the proposed rezoning would permit subdivision into two lots consistent with the city’s comprehensive plan and with nearby R‑7 zoning to the south.

The commission’s deferral followed public comment and a detailed discussion about lot width, driveway access and parking. Ray Stewart, a nearby resident, urged the commission not to set a “bad precedent for Fifth Avenue,” saying the city should be careful about altering outcomes after sales are completed. The applicant, Marvin Peraza, told commissioners he planned houses “something between 17 and, 2,000 square feet” and said each home would include an attached two‑car garage in the front.

Commissioners and staff noted the existing house on the parcel has substantial fire damage and that redevelopment is consistent with the comprehensive plan’s goals for infill and more compact growth near the central core. Staff recommended approval based on consistency with the comprehensive plan, compatibility with surrounding zoning and efficient use of land, subject to any specific findings the commission chooses to make.

Several commissioners expressed safety and circulation concerns tied to driveway cuts onto the nearby arterial identified in the record as “49,” saying a new curb cut or additional direct access to the thoroughfare could create visibility and parking issues. Commissioners asked whether parking could be located behind the houses and whether the subdivision could rely on a single shared driveway rather than multiple new curb cuts.

Commissioner Moore moved to defer the rezoning request until the applicant submits a preliminary site layout that shows the houses’ footprints, driveway and parking/garage locations; the motion was seconded and passed 9-0. Commissioners who recorded “yes” in the roll call were Briggs, Thomas, Boyd, Bibb, Schott, Baggett, Townsend, Gray and Lordland. Staff said the item will return to the commission next month.