Proposed rezoning for housing development in Springfield draws concerns

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — A proposal for housing in north Springfield is drawing concerns from neighbors.

A planned rezoning effort on East Division Street could make way for new affordable housing units, but it's already seeing disapproval. The proposal would take the 48-acre property on 3830 E. Division St. and turn it into development for a mix of single-family homes, duplexes and multi-story apartments.

At Monday's city council meeting, the plan was remanded back to planning and zoning, and more discussion with the surrounding neighborhood was recommended to address concerns.

"It's not a good scenario," said neighbor Randy Beydler, who said he and others in the neighborhood have experienced issues in flooding. "There's an area that runs by our house ... When it rains hard, it funnels into that area and spreads out."

Beydler said the proposed development could make that problem worse.

For Ken Aldin, another concern is how the proposal would effect traffic.

"Traffic is continuously increasing," he said, alluding to other nearby developments that also impact traffic.

At a July 17th planning and zoning meeting, Ricky Haase, Vice President at Olssen Engineering, said they've been looking to address issues raised.

"I feel like we've got a really good project here," Haase said. The goal of the project is to create affordable, middle-class housing.

The next Springfield Planning and Zoning Commission meeting is Aug. 14.

Aldin believes that the city and county should work together to address the issues raised by his community.