Allen could see development of 41 new townhomes near Allen Drive.
In a 5-1 vote, the Allen Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of a zoning change for just under 6 acres of land located southwest of Allen Drive at a July 7 meeting. If approved by Allen City Council, the zoning change would enable the development of 41 townhomes on the property.
A closer look
Located east of Central Expressway and southwest of Allen Drive, the site’s current zoning allows for shopping center uses, Senior Planner Kim Yockey said. The site’s unique shape makes it “not conducive to commercial uses," Yockey said. Townhomes in this location would align with two of the city’s comprehensive plan goals to diversify housing stock, she said.
The concept plan for the development includes:
- 41 townhomes
- A 5,000-square-foot dog park
- Around 1.5 acres of open space with benches
- A masonry wall and landscaping
- Public parallel parking spaces along Allen Drive
- A 10-foot-wide trail
The maximum density allowed for townhome developments is set at 10.8 dwelling units per acre, Yockey said.
“This particular plan is at 6.9 [dwelling units per acre], so it’s well below the maximum allowable density,” she said.
What they’re saying
Several residents in the adjacent neighborhood spoke during the public hearing, citing traffic concerns.
“Having the increase in traffic is definitely a concern for us, especially with that roundabout,” resident Jeremy Weatherall said.
Resident Jim Longley shared similar concerns.
“I’m kind of in favor of it,” he said. “I think it needs to be rethought in terms of traffic patterns.”
Other residents said they felt townhomes would be a better use for the space than a shopping center.
What’s next
Commission Chair Dan Metevier said this item will go before Allen City Council for final action at a July 28 meeting.
