Nampa Council reviews duplex proposal at 0 Smith Avenue amid access and fire concerns

In a recent planning and zoning meeting held by the Nampa City Council, discussions centered around a proposed duplex development at 0 Smith Avenue, raising concerns from local residents about infrastructure and safety. The property, currently zoned RS6, is situated in a neighborhood characterized by single-family homes, townhomes, and fourplexes, making a duplex a potentially compatible addition.

The owner of the property is required to secure an easement from the adjacent development on Jim Street to access the sewer main, a crucial step before any construction can begin. The property measures approximately 7,000 square feet, meeting the minimum requirement for a duplex, which necessitates a conditional use permit due to its zoning classification.

However, the meeting revealed significant concerns regarding access to the property. Residents voiced worries about the narrow, unmaintained dirt driveway that serves as the primary access route. Troy Burleson, a neighbor, expressed doubts about whether the easement could handle the increased traffic from a duplex, especially given the existing conditions. He also highlighted the need for adequate off-street parking, noting that the duplex would require four spaces, which may not fit comfortably on the lot.

Linda Smith, another resident, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the potential hazards posed by construction vehicles navigating the narrow access road. She raised questions about the adequacy of emergency access, particularly in the event of a fire, given the lack of a nearby fire hydrant and the narrowness of the driveway.

The Nampa Fire District has stipulated that the property must either install fire sprinklers or secure an alternative access easement to meet fire code requirements. This variance allows for the existing access to be used, provided that the duplex is equipped with compliant fire safety measures.

City engineering staff reiterated the necessity for the owner to pave the access road to meet city standards, a responsibility that falls solely on the property owner. The council discussed the implications of these requirements, noting that the owner must navigate both the logistical and financial challenges of the project.

As the meeting concluded, the council members acknowledged the complexities surrounding the proposed duplex, balancing the need for housing development with the concerns of existing residents. The outcome of this application remains uncertain, as further evaluations and approvals are required before any construction can commence. The discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by communities in managing growth while ensuring safety and infrastructure adequacy.