Ashland residents speak out about new Normal Neighborhood Plan

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Ashland, Ore. — Ashland City Council members tabled talks Tuesday night on the new Normal Neighborhood plan. It’s a proposal to develop 94 acres in Southern Ashland’s urban growth boundary.

Most of the meeting was testimony from residents near the area but not everyone got to speak because they ran out of time. Councilors had to push the issue to the May 20th city council meeting.

Residents Tuesday night spoke mostly against the density of the project which could add up to 450 housing units. There was also concern over proposed building heights, sewer problems, water supply, and traffic issues. But city planners said the new construction off of Normal Avenue is a way to accommodate more people and businesses.

94 acres would be designated for different types of housing, at least 6 of those acres for apartments. Only one resident spoke at the meeting in all out favor of the plan.

Many were concerned about 5 acres of wetlands in the zone. But city planners said the plan will leave the wetlands completely untouched.

The Normal Neighborhood plan has been in the works since 2011. This was supposed to be a final version of the plan, but more public comment is expected before a potential vote on May 20th.