The City of Norwalk Planning & Zoning Commission convened on December 11, 2024, to discuss a modification to a previously approved site plan for a development at 2123 Isaac Street. The meeting began with a presentation from attorney Adam Blank, representing the Wall Street Opportunity Fund, which is seeking to alter the approved plans for a six-story extended stay hotel.

The original approval, granted on September 18, 2024, included a 210-room extended stay hotel along with five live-work units. The proposed modification aims to convert a portion of the hotel into multifamily housing, resulting in a new configuration of 119 extended stay rooms and 100 multifamily units, while retaining the five live-work units. This change increases the total unit count from 215 to 224.

Blank explained that the internal layout of the building would be adjusted, but there would be no significant changes to the exterior design. The rationale for this modification stems from consultations with a hotel consultant and architect, who advised that the original plan for 200 extended stay rooms was excessive for the location. The revised plan aligns better with market demands and complements a nearby proposed traditional hotel with 96 rooms.

The commission's discussion included considerations of the project's impact on the community and the housing market. The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to adapt development plans to better fit the needs of Norwalk's residents and visitors.

As the meeting progressed, the commission reviewed the implications of the proposed changes, focusing on how the increased multifamily units could address housing shortages in the area. The session concluded with a commitment to further evaluate the proposal and its potential benefits for the city.