Rogers City Council Approves Key Amendments to Community Development Code
Rogers, AR – In an effort to streamline development and improve compatibility in residential and commercial areas, the Rogers City Council has approved several updates to the Uniform Development Code (UDC). These amendments, designed by the Department of Community Development, focus on aligning zoning, building standards, and regulatory guidelines to the city’s evolving growth and infrastructure needs.
Modernizing Zoning and Development Standards
The updated UDC provisions reflect adjustments that will help the city address modern development requirements while maintaining neighborhood aesthetics and functionality. Among these updates are changes to setback requirements in industrial zones, exemptions for natural features in exterior yard calculations, and guidelines for floodplain development permits. These amendments were crafted with input from the Rogers Planning Commission and were subject to public hearing discussions.
“Rogers is expanding, and our development codes must evolve with that growth,” stated John McCurdy, Director of Community Development. “These changes give us the flexibility to manage development effectively and to make sure new projects complement existing neighborhoods.”
Re-Zoning for Higher Density and Enhanced Compatibility
As part of the UDC amendments, several properties are set to be rezoned. Two notable areas include:
321 E. Locust Street (Nola’s Pantry), rezoned from T4.1 (Neighborhood Medium-Intensity) to T4.2 (Neighborhood High-Intensity). This change accommodates higher density and increased foot traffic, aligning with the commercial needs of the area.
1203 W. New Hope Road (Variety Insurance), also moving from T4.1 to T4.2, reflecting the area’s shift toward mixed-use development and broader commercial activity.
These re-zoning adjustments aim to improve the balance between residential areas and commercial spaces, supporting community growth while maintaining a high quality of life for residents.
Enhanced Building Standards and Expediency in Permits
In addition to zoning adjustments, the UDC amendments set clearer standards for both interior and exterior yards in various zones. Industrial properties, for example, now have adjusted setback requirements when abutting other industrial areas. This change improves design consistency and provides more predictable standards for developers.
The council also approved measures to expedite the permit process, with a focus on providing builders and developers with the resources needed to meet new standards efficiently.
Emergency Clause Passed to Enact Immediate Implementation
Recognizing the urgency of these amendments for ongoing and upcoming projects, the council approved an emergency clause to make the changes effective immediately. This provision ensures that the new standards can be applied without delay, safeguarding the community’s welfare while allowing developers to adapt to the revised code.
The updates to Rogers’ Uniform Development Code mark a significant step toward fostering sustainable, well-planned growth across the city. Residents and developers alike are encouraged to review these changes as they prepare for future projects within Rogers.
