Public hearing ends with vote against student housing plan north of Tech Terrace

LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – After a three-hour public hearing, the Lubbock Planning and Zoning Commission voted against a zoning change and a planned student housing development along 19th and 20th streets west of University Avenue.

The city council chambers in the Civic Tower were filled with citizens for the meeting. While some spoke in favor of the proposed development by Chicago-based Up Campus Properties, most expressed vehement opposition.

The Tech Terrace Neighborhood Association – UNIT opposed the proposal for a five-story student housing complex on 19th Street and a three-story building south of it on 20th Street.

PREVIEW: Tech Terrace Neighborhood Association Prepares Opposition to Planned Student Housing Development

Residential buildings, retail and parking will be located where the Godbold Cultural Center and Cafe J are now located. The development called for around 250 units with a minimum of 700 beds and space for 500 cars.

Tech Terrace residents have expressed concerns about the impact the development will have on the neighborhood, including traffic safety and student density. Most of the Commission members who voted against the zoning change expressed similar concerns.

The developer, Steven Bass, argued that the housing was needed for Texas Tech University, and was supported by George Hardberger, the property owner, who expressed support for the development.

The Planning and Zoning Commission’s recommendation to deny the zoning change will be heard by the City Council on Nov. 16.

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