Boone Planning Commission Unanimously Backs Clement Street Apartment Rezoning

The Boone Planning Commission voted unanimously on Sept. 28 to recommend that the Town Council approve a conditional rezoning that would convert a long-vacant commercial building on Clement Street into apartments. The decision marks a key step in the town's efforts to repurpose underused commercial space for residential use.

The building, which has sat empty for an extended period, would be transformed into a multi-unit apartment complex under the proposed rezoning. The Planning Commission's unanimous vote signals strong support for the project, though specific details such as the number of units, affordability provisions, and design plans were not immediately available. The recommendation now moves to the Town Council, which will make the final determination on the rezoning request.

If approved by the Town Council, the project could help alleviate Boone's housing shortage by adding new residential units in a central location. The decision comes amid growing pressure on local officials to address housing availability and affordability. The Town Council is expected to take up the matter at an upcoming meeting, where further public input and debate are likely.