The Arlington Planning & Zoning Commission has approved a revised development plan for the Autumn Parc multifamily residential apartments on West Arkansas Lane, near the Pantego town limits. The decision, made on April 29, saw a 7-1 vote in favor, with one abstention. Commissioner Derek Carter opposed the plan, citing concerns about interior hallways, which he believes could lead to undesirable activities.
The revised plan reduces the development from 57 to 51 units, consolidating them into a single three-story building with carports instead of garages. This change was necessary due to difficulties in obtaining city approval for the treatment of an adjacent stormwater channel. The redesign left insufficient space for garages.
OM Housing, based in Dallas, is behind the proposed development, which is located approximately 100 feet west of the Pantego limits. The site at 1915 West Arkansas Lane is currently vacant, while 1921 West Arkansas Lane houses a structure used for boat and RV storage.
Engineering Challenges and Solutions
Development consultant Nikki Moore from Arlington-based MMA explained that the changes were driven by technical challenges. The developer had to address the transition of stormwater from public to private systems and back to public systems. Despite solving drainage issues, the city staff and public works were not fully comfortable with the proposed underground detention system, leading to multiple revisions.
The original plan, approved by the Arlington City Council in August 2023, included two three-story structures with 57 units. The revised plan reduces the number of structures, allowing for fewer units and maintaining the existing stormwater channel.
Moore described the project as a “tax credit deal type of living situation,” emphasizing the need to adapt the site plan to leave the existing channel unchanged.
Community and Commission Reactions
Autumn Parc will be a gated community, with the first floor of the building housing the office, clubhouse, and mailboxes. The upper floors will include 18 one-bedroom units, 23 two-bedroom units, and 10 three-bedroom units. Commissioner Carter expressed concerns about the interior hallways, citing potential issues with safety and cleanliness.
Former commissioner Thomas Ware, now a city council member, praised the developer’s efforts in revising the plan. The project is set to be reviewed by the city council on June 9.
Original reporting: Fort Worth Report — read the source article.
