Rezoning Appeals and Planned Residential Developments

The Bentonville City Council is set to discuss two significant rezoning appeals at the upcoming meeting, with the spotlight on the controversial Catalpa Cottages development at 515 NW D Street. This project, which proposes the construction of 36 homes on a four-acre site, was recently denied by the Planning Commission due to concerns from local residents about increased traffic, school safety, and the preservation of neighborhood character.

The development, named Catalpa Cottages, has been met with significant opposition from neighbors who fear that the project will exacerbate existing traffic issues, particularly during school hours. Concerns have also been raised about the long construction process and its potential impact on the area’s charm and safety. Despite these concerns, the developer argues that the project aligns with the city’s land use map and that additional housing near schools could help alleviate some traffic issues by encouraging walking and biking.