'Missing middle:' Proposal could bring more affordable duplexes, fourplexes and cottages to Chapel Hill

Town Council is looking into changes that would bring more options to Chapel Hill.

Chapel Hill Senior Planner Tas Lagoo says studies show the need for more housing is dire.

"Chapel Hill has projections that suggest that anywhere from 450 to 500 new homes may be needed every year for the next 10 to 20 years," said Lagoo.

The proposed changes would allow duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and cottages on smaller lots.

The town has hosted virtual and in-person community meetings, and heard strong opinions on both sides of the issue. Some are concerned about the character of their neighborhood.

"Our family and many of my neighbors are concerned that the town's recent emphasis on density and affordability has unleashed a development frenzy that will contribute to historic neighborhoods like ours disappearing," said one concerned citizen.

Others say density means access.

"It feels somewhat unattainable to be able to buy a house and build a life here as a 22-year-old looking ahead," said another.

Mayor Pro Tem Karen Stegman emphasizes the changes involve gentle density, which means gradual change.

"People get worried when they hear multi-family that it means apartment building could be built next door to their home in their single family neighborhood, and that is absolutely not the case," said Stegman.

She believes people should be able to live where they work.

"Only about 20% of Chapel Hill town employees live in Chapel Hill," she said."That includes firefighters, police officers. We have teachers, UNC Healthcare."

Town Council will discuss these changes in the coming weeks.