VHB Guides First-of-Its-Kind Rezoning for Middle Housing in Knightdale, NC

VHB, a leading transportation planning, engineering, and environmental services provider, has successfully guided the rezoning of D.R. Horton's innovative cottage court community in Knightdale, North Carolina. This pioneering project introduces middle housing, a much-needed option between single-family homes and large apartment buildings, offering first-time buyers, downsizers, and young families more opportunities to call Knightdale home. The community features 68 compact cottage homes, surrounded by single-family homes, greenways, rain gardens, and gathering spaces, while preserving one-third of the land to protect natural areas.

Key Takeaways:

• VHB led the rezoning effort for D.R. Horton's cottage court community in Knightdale, NC, the first of its kind in the region.
• The community features 68 compact cottage homes (1,000-1,200 square feet) surrounded by 27 single-family homes, connected by greenways, rain gardens, and gathering spaces.
• One-third of the land will remain preserved and undeveloped, protecting natural areas in accordance with the town's KnightdaleNext 2035 plan.
• The project is a model for how localities and developers can collaborate on housing that meets modern needs while respecting the environment.
• The community will provide diverse housing options for first-time buyers, downsizers, and young families, addressing the need for more inclusive and sustainable growth in the area.
• VHB's expertise in planning, design, and community engagement supported the project's success, ensuring that the development plan reflected Knightdale's values and priorities.
• The project team, led by Charlie Townsend, VHB Land Development Team Leader, worked closely with the town to navigate the rezoning process and create a community that blends activated open spaces with a greenway trail, creating a connected and natural environment.
• Katie Haney, VHB Project Engineer, stated that "Knightdale is a small but fast-growing suburb of Raleigh, and there's a clear need for more diverse housing choices."

Statistics:

• 68 compact cottage homes will be built in the community, with a floor area of 1,000-1,200 square feet each.
• 27 single-family homes will be constructed, offering a range of housing options.
• One-third of the land will be preserved and undeveloped, protecting natural areas.
• The KnightdaleNext 2035 plan aims to provide a framework for sustainable growth and development in the town.
• VHB's expertise in community engagement and planning supported the successful rezoning process.

Sources:

• https://www.vhb.com/vhb-guides-rezoning-for-middle-housing/
• KnightdaleNext 2035 plan (no specific date mentioned)