Re-zoning bill for new student housing complex in Columbia voted down 4-3

A controversial bill to re-zone property for a new student housing complex was voted down 4-3 Monday night by the Columbia city council.

Those opposed said it didn’t fit the vision for the area.

The bill was tabled at the last two meetings.

The bill would have re-zoned 43 acres northeast of the Stadium Boulevard, Cinnamon Hill Lane and Maguire Boulevard intersection.

The complex would have been a 358 unit, 899 bed facility, fully furnished. Amenities would have included a clubhouse, recreation center, swimming pool and basketball court.

Rent was set to be $700 for a one bedroom and about $500 per person in a four bedroom unit.

ABC 17 News talked to a few residents who were against the proposal. They said they think there are already too many student housing complexes in Columbia and that parking for the complex is another concern.

When the bill went before the Planning and Zoning Commission in November, two of the seven commissioners opposed it, saying the area was too dense and too abrupt of a transition for the area.