2025.05.06 Planning Board of Adjustment

Woodfin Planning Board of Adjustment Meeting Recap: May 6, 2025 – Rezoning Proposal for Goodman Road/Altura Parkway

On May 6, 2025, the Woodfin Planning Board of Adjustment convened to discuss a significant proposal that could reshape a large portion of land along Goodman Road and Altura Parkway. The meeting, attended by Board members and numerous residents, centered on a rezoning request submitted by Stars and Stripes 4E LLC and Altura Communities LLC for approximately 77.46 acres of land currently zoned with a mix of Mountain Village (MV) and R21 zoning. The developers are seeking to rezone the property to a Residential District (R21) with conditional zoning (MVCZ), paving the way for a substantial residential development.

The core of the discussion revolved around the proposed development, which envisions a mix of housing options including 225 multifamily units, 91 townhomes, and 65 single-family homes. Board members and staff engaged in detailed discussions about the project’s impact on existing infrastructure, particularly concerning water, sewer, and road capacity. A key point of contention was the potential strain on roadways like Altura Parkway, Wind Whisper Drive, and Riverside Drive. Recognizing this concern, the Board acknowledged the necessity of a comprehensive Traffic Impact Study (TIA) to accurately assess potential traffic bottlenecks, especially at the intersection of 26 and Riverside. The proposal’s incorporation of 31 acres of open space, navigating the challenges posed by steep slopes on a portion of the property, was also noted.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to public comment, where residents voiced strong concerns about several aspects of the proposed development. The most prevalent concern was the potential for increased traffic congestion, particularly on Wind Whisper Drive and Riverside Drive. Residents also expressed anxieties about how the development might alter the established character of their neighborhoods, urging consideration for traffic calming measures on Wind Whisper Drive. Some attendees questioned the adequacy of notification regarding this meeting, highlighting a desire for greater transparency in future planning processes. A newly identified complication arose during the public comment period: an existing easement on a neighboring property owned by Litchfield Capital, LLC. Resolution of this easement is now a prerequisite for the project to proceed.

While no formal vote was taken on the rezoning proposal itself, several key decisions were made during the meeting. The Board unanimously approved both the agenda and the minutes from their previous April meeting. Recognizing the complexities of the project, Board members agreed to continue reviewing the rezoning proposal at a future meeting. This continuation will allow for further investigation into the identified concerns, potentially leading to revisions of the current plan. The Board also directed staff to work with the developers to resolve the Litchfield Capital easement issue and emphasized the need for a comprehensive Traffic Impact Study. Furthermore, staff will re-notify the public regarding any future meetings related to this project and ensure verification of water and sewer service availability.

This rezoning proposal has significant implications for Woodfin residents, particularly those living near Goodman Road and Altura Parkway. The potential impact on traffic flow, neighborhood character, and infrastructure demands careful consideration. Residents can stay informed about the progress of this project by visiting the Town of Woodfin website at https://www.woodfin-nc.gov/ and checking for updates on future meeting dates. The full transcript of the May 6th meeting is also available from the Town of Woodfin Planning Department.