KALAMAZOO (WKZO-AM) — Kalamazoo could see more tension between developers and homeowners if its foundation for excellence creates the kind of new development that some hope it will.
Developer Mike Speedy has plans for 241 upscale apartments with vaulted ceilings, attached garages and granite countertops that most communities would welcome with open arms.
It would be built on 12 acres on Arboretum Boulevard near Drake Road, just north of Calvary Bible Church and west of Linden Grove Middle School. They are asking the city for a rezoning from a commercial office district to residential.
It was presented for first reading this week, and residents of the Arcadia neighborhood turned out to oppose it, fearing it will diminish the quality of life in their neighborhood.
City staff pointed out that the development will be a quarter mile from the nearest home in Arcadia, and no roads will directly link the two developments.
It will be back for a full hearing on Dec. 5.
