Zoning Change For Cottage Housing Proposed In Vienna

VIENNA, VA — A rezoning proposal to allow a cottage-style development is headed to the Town of Vienna's Planning Commission Wednesday.

The three-lot parcel located at 117 to 121 Courthouse Road SW is currently undeveloped and zoned for single-family homes. A developer is requesting a zoning change to allow six, two-family, cottage-style duplexes facing a common green area and shared clubhouse.

The 1,800-square-foot units would include two-car garages on the basement level accessible by a service drive along the site perimeter. Visitor parking spaces are also planned along the service drive.

According to a statement from the town, a zoning change to allow low-density duplexes fits with Vienna's comprehensive plan.

Cottage housing developments typically include buildings with a maximum height of one-and-a-half stories. One example of cottage housing can be found at the Railroad Cottages along the W&OD Trail in Falls Church.

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. to make a recommendation to Town Council. The Town Council public hearing would be scheduled for Sept. 13 if the item is advanced by the Planning Commission.

The Planning Commission meeting will be held at Vienna Town Hall, 127 Center Street South, and virtual participation is available through Zoom. Another item on the agenda is a proposed permit for a drive-thru Chase Bank at the former Outback Steakhouse location.