Some neighbors against plan for townhomes on church property

SEATTLE — A West Seattle church said it needs to build townhomes on its property or its congregation will be in jeopardy, but neighbors may fight the proposal.

Because the church needs the city to rezone the land, leaders at the West Seattle Church of the Nazarene are trying to get support from neighbors and are holding a community meeting Tuesday night.

The church is run-down and needs a lot of work.

Church leaders said they need to build six townhomes on land behind the church or the church may have to close.

If approved, there would be three, two-story buildings designed to look like single-family homes.

Each one would have two-car garages on the back side.

Those opposed to the development think it would bring more traffic and would be bad for the neighborhood.

Others are worried three big evergreen trees on the property would be removed to make way for the homes, though the church said they plan to keep them as well as some open park-like space.

Tuesday’s meeting is 7 p.m. at the church.

The Seattle City Council is still months away from making a zoning decision.

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