The Keizer Planning Commission is set to evaluate a new subdivision request that would transform three existing properties at 1171, 1191 and 1201 Chemawa Road N. The proposal, titled “Backus Estates,” calls for the removal of the current single‑family homes and the creation of roughly 80 townhome lots, with two of those lots designated for duplexes.
Project details
The development would cover 5.15 acres and be managed by Backus Investments LLC. Each of the three parcels would be re‑zoned to accommodate higher‑density housing, a move that aligns with Keizer’s broader goal of expanding affordable family housing options while preserving the city’s small‑town character.
City staff perspective
Dina Horner, Keizer’s assistant planner, explained that the existing homes on the three lots would be removed as part of the plan. “The lots each currently have a single‑family home that would be removed,” Horner said. She added that the townhome layout is intended to make efficient use of the land while still providing space for families.
Community response
Local residents have expressed a mix of curiosity and concern. Some neighbors welcome the added housing options, noting that townhomes can offer a more affordable entry point for first‑time buyers. Others worry about potential traffic impacts on Chemawa Road and the loss of the existing single‑family homes that have long been part of the neighborhood’s fabric.
Next steps
The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on the proposal next month, giving community members an opportunity to voice support or objections. After the hearing, the commission will vote on whether to recommend the subdivision to the City Council for final approval.
What this means for Keizer
If approved, the Backus Estates project would add a significant number of new housing units to the city, helping to meet the growing demand for family‑friendly homes in the Keizer area. The development also reflects the city’s ongoing efforts to balance growth with the preservation of neighborhood character.
Stakeholders are encouraged to review the project’s site plan, which is available on the City of Keizer’s website, and to attend the upcoming public hearing to share their perspectives.
Original reporting: Salem Reporter — read the source article.
