Developer’s amended rezoning for 74 townhomes on Shenandoah advances to city council

The Roanoke Planning Commission on a unanimous vote approved an amended rezoning application from Cross Creek Development Corporation to rezone two parcels on Shenandoah Avenue Northwest and Westside Boulevard Northwest from R‑5 to RMF residential with conditions to allow a proposed 74‑unit townhome development.

Chris Burns of Westwood Professional Services, speaking for the applicant, described the project as ownership townhomes aimed at addressing a shortage of middle‑market housing. "Price points are expected to start in the mid 2 hundreds with most units being below 300," Burns said, adding the proposal would include 74 units, 142 surface parking spaces and 38 driveway spaces for a total of 180 spaces (about a 2.4 ratio per townhouse).

Planning staff told commissioners the amended development plan responds to anticipated updates to FEMA flood maps by shifting the site access south, adding pedestrian connectivity to Shenandoah Avenue and showing amenity space. Staff and the transportation division recommended that left‑turn movements from westbound Shenandoah Avenue into the development be prohibited; the amended plan adds a note stating that "left turn movements shall not be allowed from Shenandoah Avenue into the development."

Commissioners asked about buffering and landscaping: the applicant said a steep east‑side slope will remain largely untouched and that the south property line will include roughly a 25‑foot setback and preservation of existing trees where possible. On timing, Burns said that if approved the team would proceed to construction documents with a likely construction start in spring 2027 and that the site would be developed in a single phase.

Chair Pamela opened the public hearing and, hearing no speakers, closed that portion of the meeting. A commissioner moved to accept the amended application as proposed; the motion was seconded, the clerk took roll and the amendment passed. Staff said the item "will move forward" to city council with a positive recommendation.

The commission record shows the application includes conditions intended to address floodplain requirements, internal pedestrian connections and a transportation condition to restrict left turns from Shenandoah into the site. The applicant indicated units are intended for sale, not for long‑term rental.

The matter will be considered next by the City Council; the planning commission record and the amended development plan will be part of that council review.