During a recent government meeting, a proposal for a significant redevelopment project at 701 East 21st Street in Hialeah was discussed. The applicant, Hugo Arso, representing 701 Loves LLC, is seeking a special use permit to expand the neighborhood business district overlay to facilitate the construction of a three-story multifamily building comprising 24 residential units.

The proposal includes several variances from existing zoning regulations. Notably, the project requests to allow residential use on the ground floor, a deviation from the current requirement that mandates residential units be located above the ground level. Additionally, the applicant seeks to reduce the minimum unit size from 850 square feet to as low as 600 square feet for 10% of the units.

The site, which encompasses approximately 17,148 square feet, is currently zoned for multiple family use but requires variances for building mass, street frontage, and setbacks. The proposal includes a front setback of 4 feet 8 inches, where a 10-foot setback is typically required, and a rear setback of just 4 inches instead of the mandated 15 feet. Furthermore, the plan allows for only 31 parking spaces, significantly fewer than the 54 spaces required by current regulations.

The redevelopment aims to enhance the area with a multipurpose room on the ground level and a design that incorporates open garden-style architecture. The project also proposes improved landscaping, exterior lighting, and community amenities such as a dog walking area.

The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to revitalize the neighborhood while addressing the need for more residential units in the area. The proposal will undergo further review as city officials consider the implications of these variances and the overall impact on the community.