Development Review Committee approves Phase 2 plans for Water Tower District project

The Collierville Design Review Commission convened on April 10, 2025, to discuss the site plan for the Waters Tower District Phase 2, focusing on compliance with the Schilling Farms Planned Development (PD) guidelines. The meeting addressed several key aspects of the proposed development, including building transparency, green space requirements, and landscaping plans.

The applicant was required to demonstrate compliance with building transparency standards, which mandate that multifamily buildings maintain at least 20% transparency. The proposed buildings met this requirement, achieving a minimum of 27.5% green space, exceeding the 25% threshold. Usable open space was also addressed, with the applicant providing 9.19%, surpassing the 9% minimum.

A notable feature of the development is a dog park located at the southwest corner, which will serve as an amenity for residents and act as a buffer to the adjacent Porter Farm Space 7 subdivision. The trash compactor is positioned 111 feet from the nearest home, and the dog park is expected to help screen this area.

The preliminary landscape plan was presented, detailing the distribution of shrubs and trees, although specific plant types were not identified. The plan is expected to meet design guidelines, but a final landscape plan will be required to include detailed specifications on plant species and quantities. The commission may request this final plan for approval to ensure compliance with all standards.

Additionally, an alternative tree mitigation method from a previous phase was approved for this development, requiring a drawdown table for tree mitigation in the final site plan. During inspections, it was noted that the use of inorganic mulch or rock in landscape beds is prohibited, although a waiver was previously granted for limited use. Clarification on this matter will be necessary in the final site plan.

The preliminary lighting plan was deemed compliant, with further review to ensure adequate illumination in parking areas without light trespass. The final lighting plan will also be assessed based on the site plan application checklist.

The commission recommended approval of the site plan, contingent upon meeting specified conditions. Next steps include a Board of Mayor and Aldermen meeting on April 28, submission of the final site plan, recording of the final subdivision plat, and obtaining building permits. The applicant has agreed to most conditions, with some modifications needed regarding tree counts and final site plan requirements.

This meeting highlighted the ongoing development efforts in Collierville, emphasizing the importance of adhering to established guidelines to ensure community standards are met.