By Lizzie Stone, city council reporter
The Harrisonburg City Council on Tuesday approved the rezoning of two lots near Smithland Elementary School from single-family residential to the higher density housing, which would allow developers to build 55 units, including at least 44 single-family homes.
The rezoning was tabled during the previous council meeting following some concerns from city staff. Council members agreed to give the developers more time to make compromises that addressed the issues, especially about traffic.
Some nearby residents also expressed disapproval of the construction project during the public hearing at the April 8 council meeting. One resident said he and his neighbors worried about “substantial change to the character of the neighborhood” because of the construction.
Council member Naseer Alsaadun addressed those residents directly, saying he heard their frustrations, but he said “that’s the growth of the city, and we have to do it.”
The main change made between meetings was a compromise about the public road. Within the property, developers will only build one intersection — at least 330 feet from Smithland Road — and will build stubs for road connections into two adjoining properties.
Developers will also construct a recreational play area, privacy fences, curb extensions for on-street parking boundaries, and a shared-use path connecting with Smithland Road.
Also at Tuesday’s meeting:
- Catherine Strickler and William Hower were appointed to the Tree Advisory Board, filling its two vacancies. Board members advise the city council on public trees and their management.
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