Commission approves 100% affordable housing rezoning at North Loop 1604 East for a 380‑unit project

The Zoning Commission approved a request to rezone 6909 North Loop 1604 East from C-3 General Commercial to MF-303 (multifamily) to allow a 380‑unit, 100% affordable housing development proposed by Amtex in partnership with the San Antonio Housing Trust.

Darren Hansen, Senior Vice President with Amtex, told commissioners the project would be delivered in two phases and include a mix of one- to four‑bedroom units, with an emphasis on 3‑ and 4‑bedroom units to serve larger households. Hansen said the development is “a 100% affordable housing proposal,” that Amtex is pursuing income‑averaging to include units at 30% through 70% AMI, and that the team has applied for city funding. The applicant also noted partnerships with the local YMCA for after‑school programming and with PreK4SA for early‑childhood services.

Staff recommended denial on compatibility grounds because the site abuts industrial and heavier commercial zoning and the area’s zoning pattern discourages locating residential uses directly between industrial and commercial districts. Commissioners who supported the project cited its alignment with an emerging regional‑center plan that anticipates mixed‑use redevelopment near the Rolling Oaks mall, multiple access points, and the need for affordable housing in the area. Commissioner John Whitsett moved to approve the rezoning; Commissioner Taylor Watson seconded. The motion passed on roll call.

The commission’s recommendation will be forwarded to City Council. The applicant said Phase 1 funding applications have been submitted and that the development would include standard resident amenities and energy‑efficient construction.