The City of Leesburg is taking steps to revitalize its downtown area by expanding the boundaries of its Downtown Mixed-Use District. This significant expansion, encompassing approximately 131.5 acres, aims to encourage denser development beyond the current core.
The proposed changes to the city’s comprehensive plan would allow for a higher density of up to 25 residential units per acre, facilitating a mix of retail, office, and residential uses. This includes the possibility of multi-family housing integrated with commercial spaces, such as apartments above shops or townhomes with ground-floor businesses.
This initiative seeks to:
- Stimulate economic growth: Attract new businesses and investment to the downtown area.
- Increase residential options: Provide more housing choices for residents, including those seeking to live within walking distance of downtown amenities.
- Enhance the urban environment: Create a more vibrant and walkable downtown with a greater concentration of people and activity.
The expanded district will encompass properties south of the Leesburg-Wildwood Trail and West Line Street, east of Perkins Street, Euclid Avenue, and South 9th Street, north of Dixie Avenue, and west of Canal Street.
The City Commission will hold a second reading and vote on the ordinance on January 27, 2025.