Board backs Crescent Ridge setback adjustments, cites stream-buffer protection for cul-de-sac lots

The City of Milton Design Review Board on April 1 voted unanimously to recommend approval of setback and lot-width variances for the proposed 11‑lot Crescent Ridge subdivision at 13175 Hopewell Road after hearing that the adjustments would protect stream buffers and create more usable rear yards for neighbors.

Scott Rees, representing the applicant, said the developer wants to reduce the front-yard setback from 50 to 35 feet on 11 lots, increase the rear-yard setback from 35 to 50 feet, and expand pool/equipment setbacks from 10 to 20 feet. Rees said three cul‑de‑sac lots require lot-width reductions (to roughly 93.19, 88.98 and 85.44 feet) because topography and the location of a stream make pulling houses forward the best way to keep new houses away from environmentally sensitive areas. He told the board the project will not increase density or buildable area and that moving homes forward reduces impervious surface pressure on stormwater systems.

Staff noted the site had been rezoned from AG‑1 to R‑3 in 2013 and that interparcel access to the adjoining Milton Place subdivision was a condition of prior approvals; the proposed layout provides that connection. With no public comment, board members agreed the cul‑de‑sac adjustments improved the plan’s environmental performance and recommended approval. Because the variance requests exceed the city’s 10% threshold, Cardiman said the application will be routed to City Council for final action on May 5.

Vote: Design Review Board recommended approval (unanimous).