In a move to bolster residential development and keep pace with state housing mandates, Chandler City Council recently delved into a breadth of initiatives and strategies during a work session. Chandler, which has seen a considerable inclusion of both single and multi-family homes since 2020, is now navigating a landscape riddled with developer hesitations, new zoning codes, and forthcoming state laws.
The City of Chandler has noted an increase of 2,287 single family homes and 3,082 multi-family units being added since the start of 2020. An additional 121 single family homes along with 1,138 multi-family units are currently in construction, as reported in Chandler's Housing Update. However, financing issues, material costs, and fluctuating rental market demands are causing delays in 16 residential projects approved by the City Council, some queuing since 2016, which are set to contribute 129 single family homes and 2,149 multi-family units.
Chandler has been fine-tuning its approach to development through its Planned Area Development zoning process established in the 1980s, offering various incentives such as density bonuses and increased building heights. Recent policy changes are shaping the local housing landscape further. The updated Infill Incentive Program, as of November 2023, offers economic incentives for converting underutilized spaces north of the Loop 202 freeway, promoting mixed-use and housing projects.
March saw the adoption of zoning code amendments that increase the flexibility of housing options—for instance, allowing accessory dwelling units on single family lots. In a bid to bolster its affordable housing stock, Chandler is also partnering with Gorman & Company on a 157-unit multi-family development. New projects are on the horizon for additional public housing redevelopments east of Downtown Chandler, with a development agreement for one site forthcoming this fall and a request for proposals for a second site expected by year's end, according to the City of Chandler official website.
With a bevy of housing-related state laws approved this past legislative session, slated to take effect in 2025, Chandler is preparing for compliance. Ordinances are on the November calendar for City Council consideration, addressing permitted use of accessible dwelling units and multifamily uses for commercial buildings. Despite new regulations, homeowners’ associations will maintain their governance over residential properties through covenants, conditions, and restrictions.
Finally, Chandler is embarking on an exhaustive year-long assessment of housing needs and strategies that will feed into a comprehensive housing plan and the General Plan Update set for a 2026 vote. The city also eyes potential sites near Downtown Chandler and land owned by religious institutions for further residential development opportunities.
