Cottage Court Housing: Another Model for Winchester’s Affordable Housing Strategy

March 20, 2025

The City of Waynesboro recently took a significant step toward addressing housing affordability by approving an ordinance that allows for Cottage Court housing developments. This innovative approach introduces clusters of small residential units arranged around a shared common space, offering a walkable, community-focused alternative to traditional single-family zoning. Could Winchester follow Waynesboro’s lead in creating more affordable housing opportunities? To do so, Winchester could begin by conducting a feasibility study to identify suitable locations for Cottage Court developments, followed by community engagement initiatives to gauge public interest and refine policy recommendations. Additionally, the city could explore zoning adjustments, such as allowing for higher-density cottage-style housing through conditional use permits, similar to Waynesboro’s approach. Partnering with local developers and nonprofit housing organizations could further ensure the success of this initiative. Read More…