Zoning Committee reviews multifamily housing proposal on Beatty's Ford Road

The Charlotte City Zoning Meeting on June 16, 2025, brought significant discussions regarding a proposed zoning change that could impact housing availability in the community. The proposal involves a 4.4-acre site on the East Side of Beatty's Ford Road, currently zoned as N1B, with a request to change it to N2A, C, D. This change aims to facilitate the development of a multifamily residential community, which would include 40 attached housing units.

The proposed development is designed to address the growing need for affordable housing in the area. It commits to a workforce housing program, ensuring that at least 30% of the units will be available to families earning 80% or less of the area median income for a period of 30 years. This initiative aligns with the city's goals of increasing housing options and addressing affordability concerns.

City staff have recommended approval of the petition, contingent upon resolving outstanding issues related to site and building design. While the proposal does not fully align with the 2040 policy map's recommendation for a neighborhood place type, it is seen as a necessary step to fill a housing gap in the community. The site is strategically located near commercial nodes, enhancing accessibility to retail and services for future residents.

During the meeting, community members voiced their opinions, with some supporting the development for its potential to provide affordable housing, while others raised concerns about the density and impact on the neighborhood. The developers emphasized the importance of connectivity, proposing improvements to the intersection of Beatty's Ford Road and Capps Hill Mine Road, which would enhance traffic flow and access to the site.

As the city continues to grapple with housing challenges, this proposed development represents a critical opportunity to expand affordable housing options in Charlotte. The next steps will involve addressing the concerns raised during the meeting and finalizing the design to move forward with the project.