Developer Proposes 11 Three-Story Buildings Near Roxy Ann

The Medford Planning Commission is preparing to review a revision to a 25-acre section of the Vista Pointe Planned Unit Development (PUD). The proposal, submitted by Pacific Rental Properties, would replace previously approved two-story townhomes and single-family homes in the Mountain Top Village area with 11 three-story buildings containing 199 units.

Neighbors have raised concerns about fire safety, traffic, and compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods. The commission’s decision could shape density, open space, and the look of this portion of Vista Pointe for years to come.

Overview of the Vista Pointe Revision

The revision aims to alter a portion of the original 160-acre Vista Pointe PUD. The broader framework would remain, but the housing mix on the 25-acre tract would change.

The density would increase as 11 three-story buildings would replace the previously approved two-story townhomes and single-family homes. City officials say the change aligns with existing codes and expands open space in the area.

What changes are proposed

• Replace two-story townhomes and single-family homes with 11 three-story buildings
• Total of 199 residential units within the 25-acre portion
• Site location: north of Vista Pointe Drive and west of Bordeaux Avenue, near Whitney Terrace, Evening Ridge Terrace, and Deer Ridge Drive
• Open space within Vista Pointe would increase from 7 acres to 16 acres
• The proposal is described as very similar to the original Vista Pointe design by city staff
• The plan affects only a portion of the 160-acre Vista Pointe PUD and does not alter the broader framework of the development

Assistant Planning Director Kelly Akin noted that the latest plan would increase surrounding open space. She emphasized that the city has maintained multiple channels for public input, though Thursday’s meeting does not include public testimony.

Akin also said the project meets all current city codes. She anticipates that an appeal could follow regardless of the Planning Commission’s decision.

Vista Pointe was originally approved in 2003. A 2017 revision reduced the three-story element and added 132 two-story townhouses and single-family homes.

The current proposal returns to higher-density housing in a defined segment. It also increases open space compared with earlier plans.

Community Response and Concerns

Neighbors have mobilized against the revision. They voiced concerns at a January 22 Planning Commission meeting and through petitions and social media campaigns.

The central issues include safety, traffic, and how the proposed density would fit with nearby neighborhoods and services for residents of the apartments.

Key concerns

• Fire safety and emergency access in a denser, multi-story building cluster
• Traffic congestion along surrounding streets and intersections already stressed by existing development
• Incompatibility with surrounding neighborhoods and architectural character
• Lack of nearby services tailored to apartment residents, such as schools, retail, and healthcare access
• A broad petition and social-media campaign urging the commission to deny the revision

Planning Process, Compliance, and Next Steps

City staff have described the proposal as echoing the original Vista Pointe intent. It delivers a substantial expansion of open space.

It meets existing city codes, according to Kelly Akin. An appeal remains a likely outcome regardless of the Commission’s decision.

The Planning Commission’s Thursday vote could decide the fate of the revision or prompt further negotiations and refinements.

The city has kept public feedback channels open, Akin noted. No public testimony will be taken at Thursday’s meeting.

Residents and stakeholders can monitor the agenda, which is available on the City of Medford website. This will help them understand timing, proposed conditions, and the potential for changes tied to the approval process.

Site Details and Meeting Information

The project site is located north of Vista Pointe Drive and west of Bordeaux Avenue. It is near Whitney Terrace, Evening Ridge Terrace, and Deer Ridge Drive.

The meeting agenda is available on the City of Medford website. This provides officials, stakeholders, and the public with information for Thursday’s discussion and any possible vote on the revision.

Medford is considering a 25-acre revision within the Vista Pointe framework. The decision will affect the appearance and density of Mountain Top Village.

It will also shape the city’s approach to open-space allocation and neighborhood integration. Future developments will need to balance housing goals with community impacts.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Developer seeks approval for 11 three-story buildings near base of Roxy Ann