Commission approves Legacy Point variance for Joyce Street with condition to leave space for future sidewalk

The City Commission voted 5–0 Sept. 9 to grant a variance for the Legacy Point site plan that allows Joyce Street to remain at the existing 40‑foot right‑of‑way rather than expanding to the city’s 50‑foot standard. The vote included a condition that the road alignment be constructed so the city can add a sidewalk in the future.

Staff explained Joyce Street and neighboring platted streets were recorded as 40‑foot rights‑of‑way and the site plan originally contemplated a broader standard, but property negotiations with adjacent owners stalled and the applicant sought a variance. The applicant’s representative (Katie of ALT Homes LLC) confirmed the development would not construct a sidewalk as part of this project but that the developer would work with the city engineer to shift the paved alignment where feasible so room remains for a future sidewalk installation.

City Engineer Bill Freeman said the proposed roadway surface will be 20 feet wide and that the alignment has been shifted so that there should be room on one side to accommodate a future sidewalk, subject to verification of underground utilities and grading. Commissioners asked staff to ensure utilities and grading are considered in that accommodation.

The approval included explicit direction that staff and the developer coordinate on alignment and utility placement to preserve the option of adding a sidewalk later. The motion passed unanimously.