A proposed residential development in McKinney is making waves as the Planning and Zoning Commission reviews significant changes aimed at addressing community concerns. The project, located at the intersection of North Tennessee Street and East Hertz Street, initially sought to build 90 residential units but has since scaled back to 79 units following feedback from neighboring property owners.

City planner Araceli Motteo presented the revised proposal during the August 12 meeting, highlighting adjustments in parking and screening measures. The parking ratio has been modified from one space per unit to 1.17 spaces per unit, while maintaining the requirement for 20% of parking to be enclosed. The screening plan has also shifted from a tubular steel fence to a natural barrier of Leyland Cypress trees, spaced every five feet, to enhance privacy for adjacent residential areas.

The applicant, Jason Rose, emphasized the project's alignment with the city’s 2008 Town Center Study, which advocates for mixed-use development in the area. He noted that the proposed design not only meets zoning requirements but also aims to revitalize a historically underused block, contributing to the overall improvement of North Tennessee Street.

Community feedback has been mixed, with 15 letters of support and one letter of opposition, which included eight signatures. The commission is expected to deliberate further on the proposal, with staff recommending approval based on the adjustments made to address previous concerns.

As McKinney continues to grow, this development could play a pivotal role in shaping the neighborhood's character and functionality, balancing residential needs with community input. The next steps will determine if the revised plans will move forward, potentially setting a precedent for future developments in the area.