Neighbors Unite in Response to Commission’s Shocking Decision

An updated rendering of the proposed project at 21st Street and Turney Avenue was released prior to the Oct. 10 Planning Commission hearing (rendering courtesy of 4401 Turney Villas LLC).

Residents from East Morningside, Cavalier Villa, Peters View, and nearby neighborhoods are rallying to advocate for their community as developers push for increased density in their area. A proposal to rezone 1.82 acres at the northeast corner of 21st Street and Turney Avenue seeks to change the zoning from R-3 to R-5. The plan encompasses a multifamily residential development featuring a four-story structure housing 75 market-rate apartments.

Initially presented to the Camelback East Village Planning Committee on August 6, the proposal faced opposition and was not recommended for approval under case number Z-74-24, known as Turney Villas. Following a September decision to delay, the developers, 4401 Turney Villas, LLC, aimed to engage further with the community. A revised plan emerged and was submitted to the city on October 3, which modified the project to 64 units and reduced the height of the building from four stories to three along Turney and 21st Street, while retaining four stories internally.

Concerns over height, density, and increased traffic have dominated local discussions. Many residents fear that the existing infrastructure cannot support more vehicles. On October 10, the Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend the amended project to the Phoenix City Council. However, this decision prompted an appeal from local residents, led by John Paletta, a long-time community member dedicated to finding compromises with developers.

Despite efforts to secure a three-quarters Council vote through a property owner petition, neighbors fell short but are set for an appeal hearing on November 13. The residents argue that R-5 zoning is excessive for their neighborhood’s character, advocating instead for R-3A zoning, which would allow increased density without the proposed height.

The developers counter that R-5 zoning exists immediately south and west of Turney Villas. However, residents recall their significant involvement in shaping past developments in the 80s and 90s, which balanced community needs and density. Kathy DeLorey, who has lived nearby for 34 years, emphasized the community’s previous successes in addressing traffic concerns and the ongoing struggle against increasing through-traffic in their area.

There is a strong preference among residents for owner-occupied units over rental options, aiming to maintain neighborhood continuity. DeLorey noted the emotional toll this process has taken, stating, “It’s been a learning process.” The residents remain undeterred, ready to continue their advocacy despite the Planning Commission’s decision, planning to express their concerns to the Phoenix City Council.

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