Texarkana, Arkansas Development News

Dudley Street Property Rezoned for Convenience Store Amidst Lot Size Variance Discussion

The city council considered an ordinance to rezone the property at 1617 Dudley Street from R3 low-density residential to C1 general commercial. The property, an older building at the corner of Dudley and Ferguson, has a history of commercial use, including a pawn shop and a convenience store. While the lot size does not meet the current specifications for C1 zoning, the comprehensive plan designates the area for walkable neighborhoods with business operations serving the community. The planning commission unanimously recommended approval, and a petition with neighborhood support was presented. The council discussed granting a variance for the lot size, with the city attorney noting that each case is evaluated individually. The property has been vacant for years. The rezoning is intended to allow for a convenience store to serve the College Hill area, which currently lacks such amenities. The motion to suspend the rule, place the ordinance on staff and read, and adopt the ordinance passed.