Residents of Katherine Court put out yard signs along the Alamo Heights street in September 2021 opposing apartments that would encompass three lots. On Monday, the project was approved by the Alamo Heights City Council.After months of challenges by residents, the Alamo Heights City Council voted Monday to grant final approval for a multifamily development on Katherine Court.
Katherine Court residents rejected the project out of concern it would attract college students and contribute to traffic on their quiet street. “Save Katherine Court” signs went up in their yards. Neighbors organized to speak at various hearings as the developer sought variances to the city’s building code.
“I still think a huge apartment complex is not compatible, I still think condos would be a better choice,” said resident Elizabeth Yust. “It’s not compatible with Katherine Court.” A 2021 conceptual design rendering shows the proposed housing complex to be developed on Katherine Court in Alamo Heights.The latest plans outlined by the developer and architect to address neighbors’ concerns include creating a “refuge” between the driveway and the adjacent neighbor’s property, installing a fence that is finished out on both sides and eliminating on-street parking in front of the complex. A bioswale and landscaping could be added to manage drainage.
Katherine Court residents who addressed City Council on Tuesday also said they were disappointed in the city’s handling of the issue and how they were treated during meetings, with Mike Wargovich calling it “condescending.”