A once-quiet corner of Murray is on the verge of a dramatic transformation, as a proposed 423-unit mixed-use development inches closer to final approval. The Murray Station Apartments, planned for 171 to 237 W. Berger Lane, promises to bring high-rise residential living and a modest commercial footprint to an area historically dominated by industrial businesses and low-density housing.

While city planners tout the project as a key step toward revitalization, critics warn that unchecked density and infrastructure concerns could lead to long-term consequences for the surrounding community.

The proposed development, spearheaded by Mighty Munchkins, LLC, sits in the heart of the Murray Central Mixed Use Zone, a district established to promote transit-oriented development near the Murray Central Station. The 7.31-acre site currently houses a landscaping business and is bordered by Commerce Drive to the west, a Union Pacific railroad corridor to the east and a mix of industrial, residential and commercial properties nearby.

City planners argue that this project is exactly what the MCMU zone was designed for—compact, high-density housing with pedestrian-friendly elements that will bring new residents closer to transit hubs and commercial services.

The proposed complex will be built in two phases:

• Phase 1 will see the construction of 199 residential units, a central parking garage with 469 spaces and several amenities, including a clubroom, fitness center and north courtyard with a pool.

• Phase 2 will add 224 more units, 1,185 square feet of commercial space and additional amenities such as a south courtyard and pool.

Developers also plan to redesign Berger Lane with a 7-foot-wide sidewalk and an 8-foot park strip, improving pedestrian safety in an area historically lacking such infrastructure.

But as plans move forward, some residents and business owners worry the city is rushing into a high-density project without fully addressing the logistical challenges it presents.

A traffic impact study commissioned by the developer concluded that the project’s additional vehicles could be absorbed into the existing road system without the need for major off-site improvements. However, business owners in the area aren’t convinced.

“Berger Lane is already too narrow, and there are no sidewalks,” Vaughn Carlston, owner of CV Carlston Heating & A/C, Inc. said. “We have deliveries daily and need good access at all times.”

Carlston voiced frustration over mud and debris from previous construction projects, claiming that his complaints to Murray City officials have gone unanswered. He worries that similar conditions will return as the Murray Station Apartments project gets underway.

“Just want to make sure that the new private access is the first thing that goes in and all construction will be accomplished from there as it is,” Carlston said.

Emergency access is also a concern. Murray Fire Department officials flagged limited access points on the west side of the property, prompting city planners to recommend a temporary fire turnaround for Phase 1. But critics question whether such stopgap measures are enough for a project of this scale.

The Murray Station Apartments will introduce 58 residential units per acre, a number approaching the MCMU zone’s upper limit of 65 units per acre. 

Compounding these concerns is the project’s relatively small commercial footprint. Under MCMU guidelines, mixed-use developments are expected to dedicate a minimum of 75% of their street frontage to commercial space. However, the developers successfully reduced this requirement by committing to additional outdoor amenities.

Despite the lessened commercial space, the project does exceed parking requirements, offering 575 total parking spaces, including 106 surface spaces and 469 within a structured parking garage. City planners view this as a positive, arguing that the reliance on structured parking is in line with the MCMU’s push for urban-style development.

Meanwhile, developers have incorporated a range of high-end amenities, including two sky lounges providing rooftop views for residents.

While such amenities may appeal to prospective tenants, questions remain about how the influx of new residents will impact city services such as water, wastewater and public safety.

With the Planning Commission granting initial approvals, the next step for Mighty Munchkins, LLC is to enter into a formal development agreement with the city. This agreement will need to outline: infrastructure improvements, including water and sewer upgrades; the finalized traffic impact study and potential road enhancements; fire department access and safety measures; a timeline for project completion, with Phase 1 expected to break ground first. λ