City Council evaluates future land use for US 380 corridor study

The Denton Planning and Zoning Commission convened on April 23, 2025, to discuss a critical corridor study for a segment of US 380, focusing on a one-mile stretch on the east side of town. This meeting aimed to evaluate existing conditions and propose future land use designations for the area, which has seen increasing interest for development that does not align with current zoning regulations.

The corridor under review is located approximately half a mile east of Geaseling Road, extending towards the Elm Fork Trinity River. This specific area was previously part of the Northeast Area Plan, which was put on hold due to community feedback. However, staff noted a growing number of inquiries for development in this corridor, prompting the need for a closer examination.

The study area is characterized by a mix of residential, undeveloped land, and pockets of commercial and industrial uses. Currently, the land is designated for various uses, including residential, general office, and mixed-use neighborhoods. The commission discussed the implications of changing the future land use designation to better accommodate the anticipated growth and development in the region.

Traffic analysis revealed that this segment of US 380 experiences over 46,000 trips per day, surpassing the busy Razor Ranch area. Future projections indicate that traffic could increase significantly, potentially exceeding 80,000 trips per day by 2050, especially with planned improvements by TxDOT, including a new connector to Loop 288.

The commission's discussions highlighted the importance of aligning land use designations with the area's growth potential and mobility needs. As Denton continues to expand, the decisions made regarding this corridor will have lasting impacts on the community's development and infrastructure.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the need for careful planning and consideration of future land use in the US 380 corridor. The commission will continue to gather feedback and assess the implications of proposed changes, ensuring that the community's needs are met as development progresses.