Upper Moreland Enacts New Zone for Apartments

Four Upper Moreland apartment complexes are now grouped under the same zoning district.

The Upper Moreland Board of Commissioners voted unanimously on Monday to create the M-2 multi-family dwelling district.

Upper Moreland attorney Kate Harper said the new zoning district applies only to Jamestown Village, 2501 Maryland Road; Commerce Square, 3980 Commerce Ave., Willow Ridge, 2601 Blair Mill Road; and North Crossing, 3625 Welsh Road. 

“They’re already more dense than the zoning allows,” Harper said of the developments. The new district, she said, makes the complexes “more conforming.”

The district, according to the ordinance, sets a minimum of four acres for duplex and garden apartment developments and a maximum density of 21 units per acre. 

The ordinance also outlines stormwater management requirements for new construction or additions at any of the four existing developments. Stormwater management upgrades are applicable for the entire property, “not just the limits of disturbance,” according to the ordinance.

“Previously developed and areas undisturbed for new construction on site shall be subject to the requirement that stormwater management on the site shall reduce the peak storm rates by a minimum of 20 percent from existing conditions,” the ordinance states.

Commissioner Kevin Spearing asked Harper if the ordinance opens the door to include anyone wanting to develop a four-acre tract into the M-2 zone.

“You don’t have to approve it,” she said. “A zoning amendment is totally discretionary with the board.”

Attorney Julie L. Von Spreckelsen, who represents North Crossing, said her client’s request to expand the Welsh Road apartment complex was the “genesis” for the new zoning district creation.

The new district allows North Crossing to add additional units, according to Harper.