During a recent government meeting, officials discussed critical issues surrounding a proposed development project in Cary, focusing on affordable housing, traffic impacts, and community integration.

A key point raised was the need for a minimum number of affordable housing units, particularly townhomes, to ensure that the project meets community needs. Council members expressed a strong desire for more condominiums, highlighting a lack of such housing in the area. However, they acknowledged the challenges in incentivizing developers to build condos versus rental units, as zoning regulations do not allow for mandates on ownership types.

Concerns were also voiced regarding the traffic implications of the development. Currently zoned for office and institutional use, the site could potentially generate more traffic than the proposed residential project. Transportation staff indicated that larger office buildings could lead to significantly higher traffic volumes, raising questions about the adequacy of existing infrastructure to handle increased congestion.

The discussion included a proposal for a buffer zone to protect nearby residential areas from the impacts of the development, particularly concerning the visual and environmental aspects. Council members emphasized the importance of maintaining an attractive entrance to Cary for newcomers and residents alike.

Additionally, the need for safe pedestrian and bicycle access to the nearby destination center was highlighted. Officials suggested exploring options for underpasses or culverts to facilitate safe crossings, especially given the anticipated increase in traffic from the development.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of community gathering spaces within the development, particularly for the Habitat for Humanity portion, to foster a sense of community among residents. The council members expressed a commitment to ensuring that the project aligns with the broader goals of affordable housing and community integration as outlined in the Cary Community Plan.