Mixed-Use Zoning Proposal Highlights Challenges of Neighborhood Growth in Rogers

The Rogers Planning Commission is reviewing a proposal to rezone 44.27 acres near the southwest corner of West Pleasant Grove Road and South Rainbow Road to a mix of T4.1 (Neighborhood Medium-Intensity), T4.2 (Neighborhood High-Intensity), and T5.1 (City Low-Intensity).

The area, currently zoned T2 (Rural), is surrounded by residential developments, including Shadow Valley’s large single-family homes. The proposal aims to introduce a mix of housing types and neighborhood-scale services, which aligns with the city’s Future Land Use Map (FLUM). However, local residents have voiced concerns about preserving neighborhood character and managing increased traffic on arterial roads.

“We moved here for the quiet, suburban feel,” said a Shadow Valley homeowner. “Introducing higher-density zoning could change the entire dynamic of the area.”

Planning staff’s analysis highlights the importance of orderly transitions in zoning intensity to maintain compatibility with existing developments. The project’s location along two arterial roads makes it a logical candidate for mixed-use zoning, according to staff recommendations.

The commission’s decision will have significant implications for how Rogers integrates mixed-use developments into predominantly residential areas, offering a glimpse into the city’s vision for sustainable growth.