Ferguson Township is growing, and with that growth comes a major challenge—where will people live? As more people move to the Centre Region, housing demand is increasing, but current zoning laws are limiting the number of homes that can be built. The existing R4 high-density residential zoning is outdated, restricting building heights, limiting land use, and requiring too much parking.
To solve these problems, Ferguson Township is considering important changes to R4 zoning. These updates would increase housing capacity, support sustainability, and modernize zoning rules to better fit the needs of today’s residents.
You can read the full report here:
Ferguson Township Improvements to R4 High Density Housing 2025.03.02
What’s Changing in R4 Zoning?
The proposed changes to Ferguson Township’s R4 zoning would allow for more housing and smarter land use. Here’s how it compares to the current rules:
| Zoning Feature | Current R4 | Proposed R4 |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Height | 40 feet (4 floors) | 55 feet (5 floors) |
| Maximum Building Coverage | 30% of lot | 100% of lot |
| Housing Units per Acre | 52 apartments | 217 apartments |
| Residents per Acre | 104 residents | 434 residents |
| Parking Requirement (2-bedroom unit) | 2.5 spaces/unit | 2 spaces/unit with transit incentives |
Key Changes & Benefits
🏡 More Housing, Less Shortage – The new zoning would allow more than four times as many apartments per acre, making it easier for families, professionals, and students to find a home.
🚗 Less Parking, More Transit – New developments could have reduced parking requirements if they are near public transportation or include rideshare hubs, grocery pick-up centers, or bike-friendly options. This reduces traffic congestion and makes communities more walkable.
🌍 Sustainable Development – The 100% building coverage allowance comes with modern stormwater management requirements, including green roofs, underground storage, and permeable surfaces to prevent flooding and reduce environmental impact.
🏢 More Than Just Housing – R4 zoning would allow co-working spaces, wellness centers, grocery pickup hubs, and entertainment areas, making communities more self-sufficient and reducing the need for personal vehicles.
💼 Boosting the Local Economy – With more people living in Ferguson Township, businesses will benefit from increased foot traffic, and employers will find it easier to attract and retain workers.
Why Does Ferguson Township Need R4 Zoning Improvements?
Ferguson Township is part of the Centre Region’s economic hub, with Penn State University, local businesses, and essential services all needing workers. However, the high cost of housing and limited availability make it difficult for employees to live near their jobs.
🔺 More housing = lower rents and home prices
🔺 Better land use = less urban sprawl
🔺 Improved public transit = fewer traffic headaches
Without these zoning changes, housing shortages will continue, pushing rents higher and forcing workers to commute from farther away.
Building a Better Future for Ferguson Township
The proposed R4 zoning updates would bring more housing, smarter development, and better transit options to Ferguson Township. By allowing higher-density housing, modern sustainability features, and mixed-use development, these changes will help keep Ferguson Township an affordable, livable, and forward-thinking community.
You can read the full report here:
Ferguson Township Improvements to R4 High Density Housing 2025.03.02
Conclusion
The proposed R4 zoning improvements in Ferguson Township are a smart and necessary step toward addressing the housing shortage, improving sustainability, and modernizing urban development. By allowing more housing units, reducing parking requirements, integrating public transit incentives, and expanding accessory uses, these changes will create a more affordable, accessible, and vibrant community.
With better land use, sustainable infrastructure, and economic benefits, Ferguson Township can adapt to modern housing needs while maintaining a high quality of life for residents. These zoning updates will help the township grow responsibly, support local businesses, and ensure that more people have access to housing in the Centre Region.
