El Paso County reviews Urban Landing development plan for 49 residential units

During the recent Planning Commission Hearing held on January 1, 2025, El Paso County officials discussed a significant development proposal known as Urban Landing. This planned unit development (PUD) aims to rezone a 6.5-acre parcel from R-4 to a modern PUD designation, which allows for more tailored zoning regulations.

Ryan Hauser, the project manager from the Department of Public Works, presented the details of the proposal. He explained that the new PUD zoning would introduce stricter regulations and setback requirements compared to the existing R-4 zoning, which has been in place since 1976. The proposed development is expected to maintain a similar density, allowing for a maximum of 49 residential units, but will focus solely on single-family detached homes, eliminating the possibility of multifamily or multistory apartments.

The Urban Landing project is situated within the suburban residential area, aligning with the county's master plan. This location is also part of the Tri Lakes Key area, which emphasizes development consistency with the surrounding community. Hauser noted that the proposal is generally consistent with the area's development expectations, which aim to preserve the character of the Monument and Tri Lakes regions.

The hearing attracted public interest, with some attendees expressing opposition to the application. The commission encouraged community members to voice their opinions, emphasizing the importance of public input in the decision-making process.

As the commission moves forward with the review of the Urban Landing proposal, the outcomes of this hearing will play a crucial role in shaping the future of residential development in El Paso County, reflecting the community's needs and preferences.