Council clears $12.5M self‑storage redevelopment on Airline Boulevard

Portsmouth City Council approved a use permit (UP‑2514) 7‑0 on Feb. 10 to allow a climate‑controlled self‑storage facility at 2830 Airline Boulevard by Safe Store Real Estate Company LLC.

Rob Beaman, land‑use counsel for the applicant, said the proposal redevelops a roughly 2.3‑acre parcel that has been vacant in part for decades and will be a three‑story, class‑A indoor climate‑controlled facility. He said the client expects to invest about $12,500,000 in the site and estimated the change in use would generate “significantly increased real estate taxes... in excess of $100,000.”

Beaman and principal Chris Russ told council they anticipate about 30–35% of tenants could be local businesses and that at least one storage unit per floor (three units total) would be reserved for local charitable organizations at no cost. The applicant also offered to make ground‑floor space available for a police substation if the city desires.

Council discussion noted the Planning Commission recommended denial but several council members said the site has been vacant for decades and that an updated, climate‑controlled facility would be an upgrade for the corridor. Council and staff also discussed BMP placement, fencing and landscaping; the applicant said they had placed the BMP toward the front of the site to avoid blocking a neighboring restaurant’s view and were willing to work with staff on fencing and plantings. The clerk recorded adoption 7‑0.

The record includes council questions about BMP safety and whether aeration is required; Dr. Russell said BMPs are not required to be fenced but staff would verify aeration requirements with council.