As a candidate for mayor, my unwavering commitment is to understand and address the issues that matter most to Erie residents. This mission continues with the topic of the newly proposed housing densities in the comprehensive plan update, a crucial aspect of our community's future.
The comprehensive plan designates how many homes can be built per acre. Most live in low-density residential (LDR), 2-6 homes per acre. With the proposed changes to increase Erie’s population from ~35,000 to ~85,000+, densities would have to go up dramatically, and that is exactly what town staff through Elevate Erie is proposing.
Historically, the number of homes allowed in a medium-density residential (MDR)—think townhomes—was capped at 12 homes per acre, but that number is slated to go up to 18 homes per acre and as high as 22.5 homes per acre, a number that is higher than the current high-density residential (HDR))—think multi-story apartments— today. And HDR is proposed to go up a whopping 37.5 homes per acre, an 88% increase.
Zoning | Current Maximum Homes per Acre | Proposed (50% increase) Maximum Homes per Acre | Proposed w/12% “affordable housing” (88% increase) Maximum Homes per Acre |
MDR | 12 | 18 | 22.5 |
HDR | 20 | 30 | 37.5 |
This is all to say: what do we want Erie to be?
The proposed densities on how we grow will delight developers while putting pressure on our water facilities and roads. This will likely cause extreme congestion at choke points entering or leaving the Town limits, increased water bills, and overcrowded recreation facilities.
Maybe most people in Erie like the current direction and want to be the next Longmont, Northglenn, or Thornton. Erie can do better and be proud to grow in a way that maintains its charm and designation as the best place to raise our families.
Your voice matters, so please chime in!
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