A proposal to build three townhomes north of Island Cove Park took a step forward at the Durango City Council meeting on Tuesday.
Council unanimously approved a subdivision that would allow the owner of the mobile park to sell the new townhomes proposed to be built on a bench – a long, relatively narrow strip of land bounded by steeper slopes.
The council also approved a change to the future land-use map to make it consistent with the existing high-density zoning, defined as up to 24 units per acre.
The approved land-use map allows medium-density residential development on the bench above the property and high-density development in the mobile home park.
Some residents of the Riverview neighborhood opposed the project because it is incompatible with the adjacent single-family neighborhood and it would generate additional traffic near a trail used to access the river, among other reasons.
“It is problematic in almost every way,” Carl Watson said.
City staff explained the new driveway planned to access the townhomes would be connected to Riverview Drive, and it would be built behind Christ the King Lutheran Church and it would be separate from the trail.
“My impression here is the owners are trying to be mindful,” Mayor Dick White said.
Councilors also lauded the infill nature of the project.
“It works well and meets our goals,” Councilor Melissa Youssef said.
No residents of Island Cove Park spoke against the project at the meeting.
mshinn@durangoherald.com
