University Heights association opposes rezoning at Sunshine, National

Below is the University Heights Neighborhood Association’s statement on BK&M LLC’s most recent rezoning proposal for land at Sunshine Street and National Avenue.

“The University Heights Neighborhood Board of Directors unanimously oppose BK&M’s latest request to rezone properties at Sunshine and National to Office 02.

We call on Planning & Zoning and City Council to reject this rezoning request because of the ongoing taxpayer-funded Sunshine Corridor Study. The study encompasses every inch of our neighborhood and seeks to develop a coherent approach to managing three miles of a major street. The last thing we need is hasty rezoning that could easily conflict with the study’s recommendations.

There is no compelling need for the city to rezone these properties to achieve viable economic use. We welcome improvement options that would not require rezoning, such as a park, gardens, church or community space, and more. The city has no obligation to accommodate a speculator who seeks to undermine a neighborhood.

Forward SGF clearly states the value to the whole city of preserving traditional neighborhoods: desirable housing, property investment, ecological green corridors, strong community, quality of life and quality of place. 

Inappropriate rezoning requests like this harm the whole city, and spot rezoning would accelerate the domino effect of further rezoning along Sunshine. 

Neighborhood homeowners have invested far more into their properties than BK&M has, and we should be equally valued as investors in the city.

We appreciate the consideration that Planning and Zoning and City Council have given to upholding the rights of neighborhoods in this matter.”

—Sent by Maggie Castrey, 2025 President, UHNA