The Yuma Planning and Zoning Commission has voted unanimously to recommend approval of a minor General Plan amendment to change the land use for a 1.6-acre parcel near Colorado Street and 20th Avenue from low-density residential to high-density residential to allow a new multifamily development.
The River Trail Apartments at 1350 W. Colorado will have 24 units. The newly updated zoning would allow for up to 49, but developer Loneram LLC’s owner, Ronald Martin, explained his plan is to keep the unit count lower to provide additional space for community play areas. The ground-level units will also feature fenced backyards, an unusual feature for the area, and more than required on-site parking to prevent residents and visitors from having to park on neighborhood streets.
Some neighbors opposed the request, citing the standard worries about traffic, potentially increased crime and possible harm to property values. They also expressed a preference for owner-occupied housing if anything were to be developed and worried about potential aesthetic harm to the river-adjacent recreation areas near the undeveloped site.
Martin, however, referred to the plan as, “…a nice addition to the neighborhood.”
Commissioners agreed, particularly since the site is within the General Plan’s Infill Overlay Zoning District and west riverfront study area, where development is encouraged, and will be served by public infrastructure already in place.
While not dedicated as low-income housing, Martin said his properties generally rent somewhat lower than market rate to encourage longer tenant residencies and minimize unit turnover. (Source)
