City plans major residential development amid community concerns

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the proposed site plan for a new residential development at Covent Garden, located on the east side of Northwest 27th Avenue between Atlantic Boulevard and Second Street. The applicant is seeking approval for a 40-unit residential project that will include a tot lot, with building heights set at 22 feet.

This proposal marks a resubmission to the planning and zoning board, following a deferral in March 2024. The project has undergone extensive review, having been assessed by the Development Review Committee (DRC) seven times since 2021 and receiving approval from the Architectural Appearance Committee in early June.

The site is situated in a mixed-use area, surrounded by residential, commercial properties, and a place of worship. The zoning designation is B3, with a land use classification of commercial. Notably, the property has secured the necessary residential flex allocation to proceed with the development.

Key changes from the previous submission include the addition of decorative gray stucco stripes around the windows and enhanced security measures, such as fencing around the tot lot and additional cameras on-site. The layout features four-unit buildings along the perimeter, with three-unit and five-unit buildings positioned within the interior.

The Development Services Department has outlined several conditions for approval, including the submission of a recorded plat, unification of property titles, and installation of site amenities prior to the issuance of the first certificate of occupancy. Additional requirements involve easement agreements with utility agencies, dedication of right-of-way along Northwest 27th Avenue, and revisions to building elevations to meet code.

The board will consider whether the application meets the necessary standards for major site plan approval in the upcoming sessions.