Residents oppose proposed townhome development near schools citing safety and environmental concerns

In a recent Plan and Zoning Meeting held on December 19, 2024, the City of Des Moines faced significant community opposition regarding a proposed development project that aimed to rezone a property for the construction of townhomes. The meeting highlighted the growing tension between the need for increased housing density and the preservation of neighborhood character, particularly in areas valued for their tree canopy and community atmosphere.

Residents expressed strong concerns about the potential impact of the development on their neighborhood. One speaker emphasized the importance of trees, noting their environmental benefits and the sense of community they foster. This sentiment was echoed by others who highlighted the neighborhood's appeal, which attracted them to the area in the first place. Many residents voiced fears that the proposed townhomes would disrupt the tranquility and safety of their community, particularly given the proximity to local schools and the existing traffic issues on Grand Avenue.

The developer's proposal initially included 15 units but was reduced to 9 in response to community feedback. Despite this adjustment, residents remained skeptical about the demand for high-priced townhomes, citing slow sales of similar properties in the area as evidence that such developments may not align with community needs. One resident presented data showing that comparable townhomes had been on the market for extended periods without selling, questioning the rationale behind the new construction.

Safety concerns were also a focal point of the discussion. A parent recounted a personal tragedy involving their child, who was struck by a car while crossing a busy intersection near the proposed site. This incident underscored the community's apprehension about increasing traffic and the potential risks to children walking to school.

Despite the opposition, some members of the commission argued in favor of the development, citing the need for more housing options in Des Moines and the importance of smart densification along transit corridors. They acknowledged the challenges of balancing community desires with the necessity of accommodating growth. However, the prevailing sentiment among the commission members leaned towards denying the proposal, reflecting the strong community opposition and concerns about the project's fit within the existing neighborhood.

Ultimately, the commission voted to recommend denial of the rezoning request, signaling a significant setback for the developer. This decision highlights the ongoing struggle in urban planning between development pressures and community preservation, a dynamic that will likely continue to shape discussions in Des Moines as the city navigates its growth and development strategies. The developer retains the option to revise their proposal and resubmit for consideration in the future, indicating that the conversation around housing density and neighborhood character is far from over.