LEWISTON — The City Council initiated a rezoning effort Tuesday for a 70-acre parcel that officials believe is an ideal location for either single-family or multifamily housing.

If ultimately approved, the city property at 55 Old Lisbon Road would shift to the “office residential” zone, which allows for various types of housing.

City staff said the parcel is one eyed by the city that is “prime” for redevelopment due to its location, with officials hoping to attract proposals for housing development specifically.

The unanimous council vote initiates the rezoning process, which sends the issue to the Planning Board for a recommendation.

According to a council memo, the zoning district would allow for single-family dwellings on 20,000-square-foot lots, two-family dwellings on 60,000-square-foot lots, and multifamily dwelling on 60,000-square-foot lots. If city sewer system was extended to the property, lot sizes would be smaller, it states.

Councilor Bob McCarthy said he supports the effort but believes the area would need road upgrades so any potential development wouldn’t impact existing residents.

Staff said neighboring residents would be notified of the proposed rezoning when it appears on the Planning Board schedule.