Though Cranberry is full of large estates and smaller, long-standing dwellings, it’s mid-level housing such as town homes that are perhaps harder to find.
From young professionals looking to start their lives to older residents seeking to downsize as their families leave the nest, mid-level homes are in the highest demand in the Township.
That’s why the Board of Supervisors will soon consider changes to zoning regulations to address the need for Missing Middle Housing (MMH).
The concept aims to create more choice for potential homebuyers in the community while also providing the amenities they desire, including more walkable neighborhoods that have direct access to retail and recreation options.
The building types include duplexes, triplexes, and loft buildings. They are considered “middle” housing because they fall between detached single-family homes and apartment buildings in terms of scale, number of units and affordability.
The proposed zoning overlay, which is optional for potential new developments, applies to areas of 25 acres or more and encourages efficient development of future communities. Developers will continue to be held to the design standards and strict process as outlined by Cranberry’s zoning and planning and development guidelines.
The goal is more diverse, livable communities that allow for paced, guided growth in the Township while also addressing the need for mid-tier housing options. Cranberry is the first municipality in Southwest Pennsylvania to pursue such a strategy.
In December, the Board of Supervisors granted authorization to post legal advertisements for the changes. A public hearing on the matter was held January 28 and continued for further discussion and consideration at the February 25 meeting. The plan still must gain approval from the Township’s Planning Advisory Commission.