The University City stormwater commission has voted against a controversial proposal to develop an 11-acre section of the United Hebrew Cemetery into a townhome complex. Citing flooding concerns, the unanimous decision indicates resistance from yet another city entity, following endorsements of the Enclaves at Canton Avenue project by both the plan and traffic commissions. According to First Alert 4, the commission's refusal to recommend the rezoning and conditional use permit needed for the 106 townhomes signals potential troubles for the development which aimed to clear a densely wooded area.
Local residents, including Arthur Wasserman who lives on the western edge of the development property, have openly expressed relief at the commission's stance. “So glad to hear it,” Wasserman said, after the vote, as reported by First Alert 4. The project proponents, however, have cited the need for more affordable housing and proposed mitigation measures such as the inclusion of two detention ponds designed to prevent runoff.
Amid the dissent, the catastrophic flooding in July 2022 near River des Peres, which resulted in two fatalities and extensive property damage, still weighs heavily on the community's mind. As reported by Fox 2 Now, this history has fueled residents' fears that additional development could exacerbate current flood risks. Fitz, another concerned citizen, hopes to see a solution to the persistent flooding issues rather than the addition of new housing that could potentially intensify the problem.
As the University City Storm Water Commission has set a precedent of having their recommendations taken seriously, Fitz remarked on the vote, "I have not heard of the city ever going against the storm water committee recommendation," as told to 5 On Your Side. Moving forward, the University City Council may either address the commission's resolution or bounce the issue back to the planning commission.
