City of Bend approves Reed Lane apt. rezoning

The city of Bend has made its final decision on opponents’ appeal of rezoning for a controversial multi-family development planned on Reed Lane on the city’s south end. The hearings officer has approved the zone change from standard- to medium-density residential.

That means unless those opposed to the rezoning file a state appeal by April 6, the development of the property can move forward, allowing for an apartment project. The area would be limited to residential housing development with a maximum of 120 dwelling units.

Most of the houses along Reed Lane are single-family detached homes. According to a senior planner for the city, Aaron Henson, some of the neighborhood residents have been concerned about a different type of housing, added traffic, and limited road access to the neighborhood.

“I know there are a lot of opponents, and people that feel very strongly this area should not be rezoned,” Henson said Tuesday. “It is an area, though, that’s been planned for medium-density residential since 1981, and this rezone brings the zoning into compliance with the city’s comprehensive plan.”

When the property owner applies for site plan approval for a specific design, they will decide if the developer will have to provide transportation upgrades or extra sidewalks. This is the final decision of the city, so if there are any appeals, it will go to the Land Use State Board of Appeals. According to Henson, there have been no appeals from any opponents so far.

NewsChannel 21 reached out to opponents Tuesday for their reaction or plans but had not heard back yet.