Commission backs denser RS-5 plan despite neighbor concerns about flooding and private streets

The Tulsa Metropolitan Area Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of Z-7815, a request to rezone multiple parcels from RS-3 to RS-5 with an optional development plan that would allow private streets and smaller lot sizes for a new subdivision.

Tanner Consulting representative Megan Pasco told commissioners the proposal would yield about 107 lots on roughly 26 acres with lots approximately 50 feet wide and gated private streets. Commissioners pressed the applicant and staff on infrastructure and stormwater protections. Pasco acknowledged the need for off-site public street work, saying, “yes, they were going to have to build public streets and right of ways off site that do not exist today.”

Neighbors voiced opposition at the public hearing. Bruce Denny, representing the Lynn Lane Neighborhood Association, said the proposed lot sizes were out of character for the area and expressed concern about who would maintain private streets over time. Valorey Totten raised similar worries about the area’s ability to support additional development and the risk of increased flooding and traffic.

Staff responded that engineering and platting reviews require developers to provide stormwater protections and that final infrastructure must meet City standards before lots can be developed. Commissioners discussed density tradeoffs: staff explained RS-3 typically yields roughly six lots per acre while RS-5 can approach 12–13 lots per acre.

The motion to recommend approval carried 9-1-0; Commissioner Zalk cast the lone no vote. The commission’s recommendation moves the request to the City Council for final action.