Commission reviews draft housing analysis aiming for about 1,500 new units; staff outlines subarea and corridor actions

Planning staff and consultant planners presented a draft housing analysis and a preferred alternative to the Walker Planning Commission on May 20 that outlines a combined approach to producing about 1,500 new housing units over the planning horizon.

Paula Priebe, the city planner, said staff and McKenna evaluated five scenarios — passive growth, significant undeveloped lots, mixed-use overlays, gentle density infill, and a South Walker focus — and recommended a mix of those approaches rather than relying on any single scenario. "The housing assessment indicated 1,500 new housing units in the next 15 years in Walker to meet that demand," Priebe said.

Consultant Ethan Senti of McKenna reviewed the preferred map and action plan, noting target areas including Richmond Farms, two Bristol Avenue parcels north and south of I-96, Alpine Avenue, the O'Brien corridor and Standale/Remembrance mixed-use areas. Senti said the preferred alternative would increase population by roughly 13 percent and add an estimated 6,000 daily trips; school enrollment impacts vary by district, with Kenowa projected to see the largest increase. The plan pairs site-level planning (subarea plans and development guidelines) with policy steps such as corridor-improvement authorities, developer recruitment and infrastructure improvements.

Commissioners queried the process for subarea plans, outreach to major property owners (for example, orchard owners called out by name in the draft), and sequencing of implementation. Staff said subarea plans would include public engagement and outreach to property owners and that the plan is a living document to be revisited and implemented in stages based on capacity. Priebe outlined a timeline for recommendation to the City Commission and a 63-day public-comment period required by state law before adoption.