Commission backs industrial rezone on Ara Parkway to support business‑park development

The Washington City Planning Commission voted April 15 to recommend approval of a rezoning request (Z-26-08) to change roughly 43.53 acres near Ara Parkway and Hilton Williams Drive from C3 to I1, a designation staff said better accommodates warehousing, light manufacturing and industrial business‑park uses.

Staff noted the parcel borders similar uses including the Ara Southwest Logistics Center and businesses supporting St. George Regional Airport; planners recommended the rezone because the applicant’s intended uses — including warehousing and product assembly — are not permitted in the current C3 zone. Applicant Kurt Gordon of Desert Canyons Development said the company aims to finish Ara Parkway and create a seamless industrial/business park across Washington City and neighboring St. George and that large corporate users have expressed interest.

Commissioners asked about existing nearby C3 activity and where I1 zoning already exists. No members of the public opposed the request. Commissioner Davis moved to recommend approval; the motion carried and the recommendation will go to city council for final action.