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Council reviews rewrite of mixed-use code to allow up to six stories near transit
Summary
Planning staff presented a comprehensive rewrite of Arlington Municipal Code chapter 20.11 to clarify mixed-use intent, require commercial components with development, and allow up to six stories in a limited area around the bus rapid transit station; staff said TOD work and affordable housing chapters will return in coming years.
Planning staff presented a substantial amendment to Arlington Municipal Code chapter 20.11, a rewrite of mixed-use development regulations intended to clarify intent, require commercial portions to be built as developments proceed, and provide an option for up to six stories in a limited corridor near the transit-oriented development (the quarter-mile around the bus rapid transit station).
“Usually parking… structured parking… is what enables someone to go six stories,” Planning staff (Amy) explained during council questions about the rationale for a six-story allowance. Staff said the six-story allowance is geographically constrained to protect tree buffers near the airport and to avoid impacts on other neighbors, and that the city plans broader TOD work with a consultant beginning in 2027 with community engagement to follow.
Councilmembers complimented the clarity of the rewrite and asked technical questions about parking, step-backs, building transitions, and whether the six-story allowance would impair nearby properties. Staff emphasized the provision is an option, not a mandate; applicants could still propose lower heights. The ordinance will return through the usual legislative process for further hearings and decisions.
