Public Hearing to Consider New Zoning for Businesses

Proposed zoning changes in downtown Bellaire — aimed at more visually aesthetic environment — will be the subject of a public hearing before the Bellaire City Council on Monday, February 24.

The proposed changes are the work of the Planning and Zoning Commission, after extensive discussion, consideration and input.

The changes, and a proposed new Official Zoning Map, can be found on the city of Bellaire’s website. The following is a highlight of the proposed amendments:

*Creation of two new zoning districts: the Urban Village Downtown (UVD) and the Corridor Mixed-Use-CMU.

*The UVD provides for a mix of uses and styles of development to reinforce a “small town feel,” including opportunities for shopping, services, dining and residential development. The proposed changes are intended to provide for a walkable downtown Bellaire. This district would include Spruce St. on the North, bounded by Bellaire, Ferris and S. Rice.

*The CMU provides for a variety of uses along the commercial corridor to better serve local needs, with a focus on “elevated quality” of development. This corridor would be located along Bissonnet and downtown between Ferris and Chimney Rock.

*Both districts would have new developments such as commercial, including office and retail; single- family residential; and mixed use, ranging from commercial to mutl-family residential.

The proposed zoning changes also would require standards aimed at minimizing negative impacts on existing neighborhoods. Those standards include enhanced setbacks for new buildings, height limits, and a new height-setback plane to protect residential properties.

The new design standards and increased landscaping requirements are aimed at bringing higher quality buildings and a more pleasing appearance to new construction in Bellaire.

The council would like to hear from Bellaire residents about the new zoning proposals, either in-person or in-writing. Written comments must be submitted by February 24 at noon. The hearing will be held at 6 p.m. at the Bellaire City Hall, 7008 S. Rice.