Frisco Planning and Zoning Commission recommends approval for townhome zoning

A patch of land at the southeast corner of Ohio Drive and Warren Parkway in Frisco could soon see new townhome development after a zoning request passed the planning and zoning commission Dec. 13.

The commission recommended approval for rezoning about 16.3 acres from Commercial-1 to Planned Development-Townhome. Frisco’s City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on the zoning request at a later meeting.

The commission had discussed this request previously during work sessions on Jan. 25 and Sept. 13, according to a staff report. Between those work sessions, the applicant reduced the number of proposed townhome units from 103 to 95 and adjusted the street network to address the commission’s concerns.

The zoning request accommodates for a townhome development focused around two main open space tracts. The applicant also worked with city staff to develop standards that will help set the area up for future walkability, encouraging social interaction and creating community.

The applicant is proposing to reserve 2.1 acres for usable open space areas, which may include a pollinator garden, shade structures, enhanced paving paths, an open lawn area and enhanced plantings.

The applicant held a homeowners association meeting in October and received general support for the project, according to the staff report. To date, city staff have not received any project input forms for this development.

Residential developments surround the site’s east and north borders. A vacant lot across Warren Parkway is zoned Commercial-1 as are lots across Ohio Drive. City staff found that the zoning request complies with Frisco’s Future Land Use Plan, which designates the area for suburban neighborhood uses.

The applicant has voluntarily entered into a development agreement to establish building material standards and codes, which will be placed on the same council meeting as the public hearing for this zoning request.