Council approves revised Bell Astoria apartment plan with lower heights, more open space and parking garage

The Town of Gilbert Council voted unanimously June 24 to approve a planned‑area‑development amendment for Bell Astoria (Parcel B) at the northwest corner of Power and Williams Field roads.

Planning staff described the amendment as a redesign of a previously approved multifamily parcel that improves street‑fronting buildings, hides parking behind buildings and introduces a parking garage and enhanced common open spaces. The revised design reduces building massing visible from the adjacent single‑family neighborhood and shifts much of the parking out of public view.

Applicant representatives said the new layout creates larger, centralized amenity areas, improves pedestrian connections and provides a transition in building heights adjacent to single‑family homes. Staff said the proposal falls within the site’s approved general plan density range and recommended approval because the redesign produces better urban design outcomes than the prior plan.

After questions about traffic impact and phasing, the council approved the PAD amendment 7–0. Staff said design‑review, permitting and construction will follow the amended PAD.