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Developers present Reserve at Duck Lake Estates concept; commissioners largely positive though traffic concerns remain
Summary
P3 (Bob Murray and Josh Kennitzer) presented a concept for The Reserve at Duck Lake Estates, a low‑density multifamily development modeled on Rolling Woods. Commissioners generally expressed support; neighbors and commissioners raised traffic and site-access concerns. No formal action taken.
Representatives from P3 (Bob Murray and Josh Kennitzer) presented a concept plan for The Reserve at Duck Lake Estates (East Hartle Street / East Albert Street), described as a low‑density multifamily development modeled on the firm’s Rolling Woods project. P3 said the approach features 12‑unit “community homes” with private entrances, attached garages, full‑size appliances and on‑site management; they described the proposed density as roughly 5.6 units per acre (well below higher-density multifamily ranges) and emphasized landscaping and on‑site leasing/management to maintain quality.
Commissioners and the mayor praised Rolling Woods as a successful precedent and several commissioners, including David and a candidate for mayor who spoke at the meeting, said they would be supportive of a similar project in Portage. At the same time, commercial property owners on East Albert reiterated traffic and access concerns, saying some businesses have parking that encroaches on the right‑of‑way and that additional residential traffic could exacerbate safety and circulation issues.
P3 representatives noted Rolling Woods’ strong occupancy (reported near full occupancy) and said the development would likely request TIF assistance to make rents affordable to local workers; they provided a summary of construction‑cost and rent pressures that make modest rents challenging without some tax relief. Staff said the site is currently zoned RT (residential) and would require rezoning to R‑4/R‑5 based on the final plan; a site plan approval would be required. The developers said they have the property under contract and plan to move forward if the commission is supportive.
Why it matters: The proposal addresses local housing supply with a model the city has already accepted elsewhere; potential traffic and access issues on East Albert remain a central concern. No formal action was taken; the commission asked for continued dialogue and for staff to evaluate access and stormwater details if a formal application is submitted.
