Salina planners recommend amended PDD to convert Roosevelt–Lincoln senior apartments to general-occupancy, allow two signs and keep 58 parking spaces

The Salina Planning Commission voted to recommend amending the planned development district (PDD R3) for the former Roosevelt and Lincoln school complex — now RL Lofts — to remove its age‑restricted occupancy requirement, allow two ground signs, and retain the site’s existing 58 off‑street parking spaces for 61 apartment units.

The commission also voted to recommend approval of a preliminary development plan for the project, subject to conditions that include submission of a revised landscape plan showing at least 42 tree units, adherence to R‑3 bulk standards except for the carried‑over setback variations, and final sign/lighting plans before building permits are issued.

Why it matters: The buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places and sit in downtown Salina between Seventh and Eighth streets and Mulberry Street. Developer representatives said the owner is investing about $20 million to renovate the historic buildings, preserve on‑site green space required by the State Historic Preservation Office, and maintain 80% of units as rent‑restricted to households at 60% of area median income or less while making 20% market rate. Neighbors and church leaders said the change from senior housing to general occupancy could increase parking pressure and displace older renters who lived there before renovation.

Planning staff presented the application as PDD‑044b. Dustin, a planning staff member, told the commission the site was redeveloped in 2004–2006 into elderly multifamily housing and is bounded by Eighth Street (west), Seventh Street (east) and Mulberry Street (south). Staff summarized the requested amendments: repeal the 55+ occupancy limitation; add two ground signs (one per building);…