Since the inception of an industrial campus in the Northpoint area of Salt Lake City, the lives of residents have been gradually altered. The emergence of semi trucks on their streets and the constant stream of developers looking to transform their agricultural neighborhood into an industrialized hub have raised concerns among the locals.
To address these concerns, the Salt Lake City Council recently approved an updated version of the Northpoint Small Area plan. The plan aims to strike a balance between the existing farmhouses and the need for industrial development. While agricultural zoning will be retained on the east side of 2200 West, there are still worries about the potential transition of this land into light industrial zones.
Victoria Petro, the council member representing the area, acknowledges that it may be challenging to prevent industry from encroaching on the area completely. However, she assures residents that any developer intending to establish a light-industrial operation in the Northpoint area will face stricter regulations and limitations.
Denise Payne, a resident affected by these changes, expresses her concerns about the impact on the agricultural nature of the area and the safety of the community. With heavy industrial vehicles becoming a common sight, she no longer feels safe conducting everyday activities like biking or walking with her grandkids.
The updated plan includes provisions for light industrial buildings to adhere to design standards that mitigate their impact on surrounding homes. Additionally, a separate light industrial zone specific to the Northpoint area will be established, encouraging smaller manufacturing operations and flex spaces instead of massive warehouses.
It is important to note that the City Council’s decision deviates from the recommendations of the Planning Commission, opting for larger setbacks and buffer zones. The plan also ensures that certain roads remain unpaved to limit their use and safeguard nearby wetlands.
In terms of future development, developers interested in the Northpoint area must prepare for stricter zoning requirements and adhere to comprehensive developer agreements. Petro emphasizes that a warehouse district will not be tolerated, and the council will proactively enforce the protection of the area’s unique character.
FAQ:
Q: What changes are happening in the Northpoint area of Salt Lake City?
A: An industrial campus is being developed, prompting concerns about the transformation of the agricultural neighborhood.
Q: What is the Northpoint Small Area plan?
A: It is an updated plan approved by the Salt Lake City Council to manage the integration of industrial development while preserving the existing farmhouses.
Q: Will the agricultural zoning be retained in the area?
A: Yes, the plan maintains agricultural zoning on the east side of 2200 West.
Q: What regulations will apply to light industrial buildings in the area?
A: They will need to meet design standards addressing setbacks from residential properties, landscaping, and dark sky considerations.
Q: What measures will be taken to protect the wetlands in the Northpoint area?
A: The plan includes landscaping regulations and larger setbacks for areas near wetlands and the Jordan River.
Q: Will there be a separate light industrial zone in the Northpoint area?
A: Yes, a specific light industrial zone will be established, encouraging smaller manufacturing operations and flex spaces.
Q: How will developers be regulated in the Northpoint area?
A: They will be subject to stricter zoning requirements and comprehensive developer agreements to ensure adherence to the plan’s goals.
