Harrisburg council reviews final phase of Eden Village housing project for homeless

In a recent Harrisburg City Council meeting, significant discussions centered around the Eden Village project, a proposed development aimed at addressing homelessness in the city. Jeffrey Knight, the city’s planning director, provided an overview of the project, which includes 32 tiny homes and a community center designed to support residents. This initiative marks the final phase of a larger development plan situated south of the PennDOT facility on South Front Street.

Eden Village is designed to serve the general homeless population, distinguishing it from previous projects in the area that focused specifically on homeless veterans. The project has already received necessary zoning approvals, paving the way for the council's final vote in an upcoming legislative session.

The planning commission has recommended approval of the project, emphasizing the importance of accessibility. Conditions include ensuring that the tiny homes and community center are ADA compliant, with zero-step entries and shared access ramps to facilitate movement between units. Additionally, the project must incorporate landscape screening to mitigate light spillover into nearby residential areas and coordinate with the city arborist on landscaping plans.

Knight highlighted the need for the applicant to secure easement agreements for access through adjacent properties, particularly as ownership changes in the area. The planning commission's recommendations also stress that the approval of this project will not override any necessary reviews by external agencies regarding stormwater management, ensuring compliance with updated regulations.

As the council prepares for the final vote, the Eden Village project represents a crucial step in addressing homelessness in Harrisburg, reflecting the city's commitment to providing sustainable housing solutions for its vulnerable populations. The anticipated approval could set a precedent for future developments aimed at tackling similar social issues within the community.