Small-Scale Affordable Infill Housing in Old East Hill
Summary
The proposed language limits townhouses to two units in medium-density districts while allowing triplexes and quadruplexes, which can still look like single-family homes. Supporters say it adds housing options without monolithic buildings dominating neighborhoods; public commenter Colin Gold argued for allowing up to four townhouse units.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 4
- Last 30 days
- 1
Discussed at 1 meeting in the last 60 days; most recently Oct 15, 2026.
Impact analysis
About $23,800 from the Eastside and Westside TIF funds for initial maintenance and due diligence, with housing department funds possibly adding infrastructure support.
Residents seeking more affordable, smaller housing options like duplexes, triplexes and small townhouses.
Nearby neighbors could face parking and short-term rental friction if ADUs are used as vacation rentals instead of housing.
Mentions & discussions (4)
Architectural Review Board - Oct 15, 2026
Nanette Chandler's new one-story duplex fits the shotgun-cottage pattern of the block and is part of a push for more affordable units downtown. The board liked the design but made her deepen the front porch to six feet to match neighborhood guidelines.
Community Redevelopment Agency - Sep 8, 2026
Thirteen vacant lots the county deeded to the city in 2024 will be maintained by the CRA and readied for affordable infill housing. Developers — both nonprofit and for-profit — could be solicited by October or November, with awards possible in early 2027. Board members pressed for permanent affordability so homes don't flip to market price within a few years.
Affordable Housing Advisory Committee - Aug 4, 2026
ADUs are legal in Pensacola but almost nobody builds them because residents don't know they're allowed and the process is hard to navigate. The committee is pushing for an online tool and public education, while members debated how hard the city should push without alarming neighborhoods worried about short-term rentals and parking.
Planning Board - May 12, 2026
The proposed language limits townhouses to two units in medium-density districts while allowing triplexes and quadruplexes, which can still look like single-family homes. Supporters say it adds housing options without monolithic buildings dominating neighborhoods; public commenter Colin Gold argued for allowing up to four townhouse units.
Related development
311 E. Jackson Street New Duplex
Turns a vacant lot into two small, affordable, historic-looking cottages consistent with the street.
Eastside and Westside Escheated Properties Infill Redevelopment
Vacant, blighted lots across two neighborhoods could become affordable homes by early 2027, if developer awards move forward on the staff's timeline.
We'll email you when it's on an upcoming agenda and when it's voted on, at most once a day.
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