Developers present 35‑unit workforce housing concept; board seeks more detail on density, fire access and traffic

Developers and their consultants presented a conceptual plan March 9 for a four‑story, 35‑unit apartment building at 9 Sunset Lane, describing the project as workforce housing with a proposed mix of 30 restricted units and five market‑rate units to satisfy financing criteria.

Attorney John Levenstein introduced the team; project engineer Jason Lopez described the 1.1‑acre site and access constraints on the dead‑end road. Market Square Architects displayed elevations and massing that use gabled roofs and facade modulation to reduce apparent scale. Development consultant Chuck Eisenberg explained that financing through New Hampshire Housing (including 9% tax credits, construction/permanent financing and gap financing) constrains unit counts and rent restrictions and said the proposed unit count was chosen to meet those financing and per‑unit expenditure caps. "The financing here will be primarily, from New Hampshire housing," Eisenberg said, describing tax credits, agency financing and gap funding as the project's principal funding sources.

Board concerns: members welcomed the workforce‑housing intent but raised several issues the team must address before a formal application: the parcel is 1.1 acres and current zoning permits about 12 units per acre, so the proposed density requires a significant waiver; the board asked for more renderings and comparisons to nearby buildings (including TRM) to evaluate visual impact; fire‑department access will need engineered detail for the proposed 'grass drive' that must support ladder trucks; parking (50 spaces shown) and guest parking plans need clarification; and the team must submit traffic analysis that accounts for planned DOT improvements on South River Road.

The board did not categorically oppose the concept but asked the applicants to provide additional technical materials—elevations, landscaping plans, traffic and economic impact analyses and evidence to support waiver requests—before advancing to a formal application and public hearing.

Why it matters: if built, the project would add workforce‑restricted housing in Bedford, using state financing programs that require particular unit counts, rental restrictions and long‑term affordability commitments. The board emphasized that the larger the request for waivers, the stronger the supporting evidence needed.

What’s next: applicants said they will refine designs, prepare traffic and economic analyses, coordinate with the fire department on access, and return with detailed materials for public review.