The Colorado Springs City Planning Commission on Aug. 13 unanimously approved a nonuse variance to allow a 7‑foot corner side‑street setback along Third Street for a proposed two‑story duplex at 3121 Illinois Avenue. The approval lets the developer build closer than the 15‑foot setback required by the Unified Development Code.

City planner Carrie Schott told commissioners the lot is zoned R‑5, is 4,800 square feet and was originally platted in 1901; a duplex is a permitted use in R‑5. "The lot was historically plotted in 1901 with this 40‑foot width and 4,800 square foot size," Schott said, and staff concluded the variance met the review criteria in UDC section 7.5.0.526(e).

Applicant Drew Geyser of Blue Truck Capital described the design and how it responds to the neighborhood. "What we're trying to do is provide some of that missing middle housing," Geyser said, adding the duplex will be two stories and kept below the zone's 50‑foot height cap. He said the proposed corner setback still results in about 18.5 feet from the back of curb because the property line is offset from the sidewalk.

During public comment Papeton neighborhood representative Matt Jones said residents sought more information about infrastructure and stormwater in the surrounding neighborhood, noting potholes and inconsistent sidewalks. Schott responded that new development must meet current code and that developers are responsible for bringing new lots up to code for sidewalks and stormwater when improvements are required.

Commissioners discussed neighborhood character and compatibility, and Commissioner Rickett said the proposed duplex fits the area's historic pattern. Commissioner Casey seconded the motion, and the commission voted to approve the variance.

This decision is a final action of the planning commission; the UDC allows affected parties to appeal planning commission actions to city council within 10 days of the action. The commission’s approval here applies only to the nonuse setback variance for the corner lot; any other permits or reviews required for building permits remain separate steps.