In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the ongoing development proposal for an infill site located near West Wing Elementary, which has been under review since June 2021. The proposal has garnered significant community interest, evidenced by a turnout of 24 attendees at the initial meeting and a similar response during a formal neighborhood meeting held in January 2022.
Key concerns raised by residents included traffic generation, particularly regarding U-turns at nearby intersections, and potential impacts on home values and school capacity. The applicant has proposed a solution known as the LILO (Left In, Left Out) design to address these traffic concerns, aiming to enhance safety for local residents.
The proposal has received mixed feedback from the community. To date, the city has recorded 91 letters and emails opposing the project, while 148 letters, including 59 from local businesses, expressed support. The development is projected to generate approximately 36 students, who would attend West Wing Elementary and Mountain Ridge High School, both part of the Deer Valley Unified School District. However, the school district has not provided any comments on the proposal.
City staff emphasized that the site is designated as urban residential in the 2020 general plan, which aims to maintain a residential character while allowing for a mix of housing types. The proposed development density is slightly below the minimum requirement but aligns with the general plan's intent.
Staff recommended sending a favorable recommendation to the city council, contingent upon specific conditions of approval. The meeting concluded with inquiries about the status of 95th Avenue, which remains unbuilt, indicating ongoing infrastructure considerations related to the development.