Zoning Changes to be Discussed

The Central Roxborough Civic Association will hold a second meeting on Monday July 22, at 7:30 p.m. at Leverington Presbyterian Church to discuss proposed changes to the area's zoning map.

Central Roxborough originally held a meeting in May that went over the proposed changes that would go into effect in the fall.

“There’s a lot of flexibility under the current zoning map,” said Paula Brumbelow who works for the planning commission at the may meeting.  “We want to look for areas where we can protect the density.”

The changes in the zoning map were proposed after a historic home was demolished  at the intersection of Ridge and Roxborough Avenues.

“These demolitions were done by right,” said Northwest Community Planner Matt Wysong.  “There are a lot of mismatches in the zoning.”

Usually, older historic homes sit on large lots; however, those properties may be zoned in such a way to allow for subdivision.

Under these circumstances, it makes more financial sense for a developer to demolish one old building, subdivide the lot and construct as many units as the zoning code allows.

The new zoning map would make it harder for these things to happen.

“We want to reflect what’s already there in the neighborhood,” Brumbelow said.

The Central Roxborough meeting will occur on July 22, at 7:30 p.m., at Leverington Presbyterian.