Villas at Turtle Creek Phase 2: New Mixed-Use Development Approved in Rogers
A new mixed-use development, the Villas at Turtle Creek Phase 2, is set to enhance the neighborhood around Osage Turtle Creek in Rogers. With approval granted for rezoning and a density concept plan (DCP), this project will combine residential and commercial spaces, offering a vibrant and pedestrian-friendly environment.
Rezoning Brings New Opportunities
The 9.66-acre property, located just east of the bowling alley and west of Osage Turtle Creek, was rezoned from Highway Commercial (C-2) and Residential Office (R-O) to Neighborhood Commercial (C-3). This rezoning aligns with the Neighborhood Center designation in Rogers’ Comprehensive Growth Map (CGM), which emphasizes compact, mixed-use environments.
According to the city’s Unified Development Code (UDC), C-3 zoning aims to create “a neighborhood-oriented environment that transitions into lower-density residential areas.” This zoning also promotes medium-density residential development, such as townhomes, bungalow courts, and other multi-unit housing types, ensuring compatibility with surrounding areas.
Development Details and Features
The Villas at Turtle Creek Phase 2 will feature 171 residential units, achieving a density of approximately 18 units per acre. This is well within the 24 units per acre maximum permitted under the DCP guidelines. Alongside housing, the development will include retail, commercial, and restaurant spaces, catering to the needs of the community and promoting walkability.
While some structures in the plan exceed the C-3 zoning limit of three stories, the tallest proposed buildings—up to six stories—are allowed under the translated T5.1 zoning designation in the UDC. This zoning flexibility ensures that the development aligns with the city’s long-term urban planning goals.
Neighborhood Context and Connectivity
The project is strategically designed to complement its surroundings. It fits seamlessly with nearby multi-family developments like the Reserve at Osage Creek and Villas Phase 1, which have densities of 16 and 11 units per acre, respectively. The addition of commercial spaces will provide nearby residents with essential services within walking distance.
Connectivity is further enhanced by the Railyard Loop Trail, which runs along the southeast portion of the property. This trail offers multi-modal transportation options and recreational opportunities, encouraging active lifestyles and reducing reliance on cars.
Design Adjustments and Collaboration
The development deviated from some C-3 zoning requirements, including setbacks and building frontage percentages. Two five-story buildings along Walnut are set back approximately 90 feet from the right-of-way, rather than the required 5 to 30 feet, and do not meet the 60% building frontage requirement. However, the city’s updated UDC allows for variations through the DCP process, and staff worked closely with the applicant to address these challenges.
Additionally, buildings along the trail will be limited to two stories to maintain harmony with the natural surroundings and provide an appropriate transition from more intensive structures.
Approval and Public Feedback
City staff recommended approval of the rezoning and DCP, highlighting the project’s consistency with the Neighborhood Center Growth Designation. They noted that the proposed mix of uses and density aligns with the city’s vision for balanced growth. No public objections were received during the review process, further clearing the path for approval.
A Vision for Rogers’ Future
The Villas at Turtle Creek Phase 2 represents a forward-thinking approach to urban development in Rogers. By blending residential and commercial spaces with an emphasis on walkability, connectivity, and sustainability, the project sets a high standard for future developments. With its approval, the city takes another step toward creating vibrant, accessible neighborhoods that enhance quality of life for residents.
