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New housing development proposal sparks community debate

September 12, 2024 | Grand Rapids City, Kent County, Michigan


This article was created by AI summarizing key points discussed. AI makes mistakes, so for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Please report any errors so we can fix them. Report an error »

New housing development proposal sparks community debate
A proposal for a new residential development in the TN LDR zone district is currently under consideration, featuring 24 duplex units and a three-story apartment building with 51 units. This request is significant as it requires special land use approval due to the multi-family residential nature and the building's height.

The site, located just north of Burton Street, was previously home to the Gillespie Funeral Home, which has remained vacant since 2019. A prior development proposal for the site in 2020 suggested a different design with 70 units but was ultimately not pursued. The current proposal aligns with the South Town Business Area Specific Plan, which emphasizes a preference for lower-density housing types in the area.

The proposed development spans 3.25 acres and includes plans for demolishing the existing funeral home and a single-family home. The design features an L-shaped building positioned toward the street, with parking located at the side and rear. Each duplex will have two designated parking spaces, and while there will be no vehicular access to adjacent streets, pedestrian pathways will connect to Martin and Elliott Streets.

The proposed density of the development is within the allowable limits for the TN LDR zone, although it exceeds recommendations from the master plan. The planning commission will need to evaluate the appropriateness of the building's height and its integration into the surrounding neighborhood.

Architectural details include fiber cement siding, brick, and metal accents, with a focus on transparency through ample window placements. The design also incorporates recessed balconies, enhancing the building's visual appeal. A playground is planned for the duplex area, and each unit will feature a small storage shed.

The proposal has undergone preliminary development meetings, with community engagement noted as a key aspect of the planning process. The planning commission will deliberate on the application, considering both the benefits and potential impacts of the proposed development on the local community.

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