The Meridian City Planning Commission convened to discuss a conditional use permit and preliminary plat for a multifamily community proposed by Gateway at 10 Mile, located in the R-40 zoning district. This item, which was continued from a previous meeting, has drawn significant public interest, evidenced by over 70 written comments primarily addressing concerns about school overcrowding and traffic congestion in the area.

The staff report highlighted that the property, annexed in 2020, was designated for high-density residential and mixed-use commercial development. The proposed project includes 390 residential units, comprising townhome-style apartments and four-story buildings, alongside 31 total lots—19 designated for commercial use and 12 for residential development.

Traffic management remains a critical issue, with the Ada County Highway District (ACHD) noting that 10 Mile Road is currently operating at a level of service F, indicating severe congestion. The applicant has proposed a ride-in, ride-out access point on 10 Mile, which staff and ACHD initially opposed due to code restrictions. However, the applicant is seeking a waiver from the city council to allow this access, which would improve connectivity and traffic flow.

The development plan includes extensive amenities such as a clubhouse, swimming pool, fitness center, and dog parks, exceeding the required open space and parking standards. The project aims to integrate residential and commercial spaces to foster a walkable community, aligning with the 10 Mile Interchange Specific Area Plan.

The commission is expected to make a recommendation to the city council regarding the access point and other conditions of approval. The applicant's team expressed their commitment to addressing community concerns and working with local agencies to ensure the project's success. Public testimony will continue to be a vital component of the decision-making process as the commission weighs the benefits and challenges of the proposed development.