Residential Density Tripled!

What is Residential Density? Residential density refers to the number of people or homes in a specific area of land, like a neighborhood or city block. It's usually measured in terms of the number of housing units (like houses or apartments) per acre or square mile. Higher residential density means more people or homes are packed into a smaller space, like Coral Gables. Lower residential density means fewer people live over a larger area, like in suburbs where homes are more spread out. This affects things like traffic, public services, and the overall feel of a place.
 
In December of 2022, the Village Council increased the maximum residential density from 12 units per acre to 35 units per acre. Increasing residential density from 12 units per acre to 35 units per acre means fitting more homes into the same amount of land. At 12 units per acre, the area might have houses with yards or small apartment buildings. When the density rises to 35 units per acre, the space becomes more crowded, often filled with apartment buildings, townhouses, or condos that are packed closely together. While this allows more people to live in the same area, it also leads to increased traffic congestion, noise, and a lack of privacy. The busier environment strains public services like schools, parks, and transportation, making them less accessible or enjoyable for everyone. Additionally, the reduced green space and crowded conditions make the surrounding neighborhoods feel less open and relaxing.
 
What can we do? To decrease the maximum residential density in the Village of Pinecrest from 35 units per acre, the Village Council needs to vote to roll back residential density to the original maximum of 12 units per acre. This will help preserve Pinecrest’s spacious, peaceful environment, with ample green space, larger yards, and uncrowded neighborhoods. By maintaining fewer apartment buildings or condos, we can ensure that residents continue to enjoy the quiet, less hectic atmosphere that makes Pinecrest ideal for families and those who value privacy and a close-knit community. Keeping lower density will help minimize traffic and reduce the strain on public services, safeguarding the high quality of life that current residents cherish and expect.
 
 - Ralph Sanchez, 9/14/2024