With Narberth now among the priciest housing markets in Montgomery County, the borough council is weighing a series of zoning changes designed to promote affordable housing development and support downtown revitalization, writes Denali Sagner for The Philadelphia Inquirer.
“Narberth used to be relatively affordable, and that’s no longer the case,” said Fred Bush, president of the Narberth Borough Council.
Drafted by the borough’s planning commission at the request of council, the proposed changes will be considered in May 2026. The measures include adjustments to residential lot-size requirements and provisions allowing taller apartment buildings when affordable units are incorporated. The commission also proposed easing parking rules, which currently require one parking space per residential unit in addition to visitor parking.
The proposals affect two areas of Narberth: a portion of Montgomery Avenue, and a ring surrounding the downtown core.
Supporters say the changes could lower housing costs and allow a broader mix of residents to live in the borough, rather than limiting it to high earners and longtime homeowners. However, the proposal is also expected to face pushback from residents who are unhappy with potential zoning changes in their community.
Read more about Narberth’s housing market and the potential zoning changes to help make increase affordability in The Philadelphia Inquirer.
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