An agreement approved by the Gilbert Town Council will limit the amount of multifamily housing that can be built in the area, and more apartments are likely headed to the undeveloped commercial land around the mall.
The entire area around the mall is zoned for “regional commercial” development, which can include large-scale shopping centers, hotels, entertainment complexes and car dealerships.
Despite the commercial zoning, multifamily housing is permitted with the planning commission’s approval of a use permit and as part of an “integrated mixed-use plan,” according to the land development code.
A special “planned-area development” zone around SanTan Village mall, called Crossroads, permits for up to 20percent of the area to develop as multifamily housing, as long as the developer is awarded the necessary permits.
So far, town planners note, there has been little multifamily development in the Crossroads area, although there are a few large complexes directly to the south, near Val Vista Drive and Pecos Road.
Proposals for new apartment complexes often generate controversy among residents and community activists who worry about corresponding increases in crime and traffic and a potential drop in property values.
Information from The Arizona Republic
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North Gilbert residents voice frustrations
If you’d like to discuss real estate matters, contact Rose Law Group Founder Jordan Rose, jrose@roselawgroup.com