Planning board approves density exemption for 410 Reid Avenue allowing two apartments above storefront

The City of Saint DuPont Planning and Development Review Board on July 14 approved a special-exemption request for 410 Reid Avenue (Parcel 04794-000R) to allow two residential units above a commercial ground floor. The board’s motion to approve was made by a member identified in the transcript as Mister Early and seconded by Miss Lachlan; the chair cast a supporting vote. The applicant sought an exemption from the mixed-use density standard that, under the city’s zoning for that corridor, works out to 15 units per acre but on a 30-foot lot typically yields room for only a single unit. Staff described the proposal as similar to a recent development across the street that has commercial on the first floor and two residential units above, with rooftop space and two rear, on-site parking spaces. Board discussion focused on whether the two rear parking places were on the property; staff and the packet indicate two on-site parking spaces are included. According to staff remarks in the meeting packet, the footprint accommodates two on-site parking spaces accessed from the rear alley. Board members described the proposed building as consistent with the scale and form of nearby mixed-use buildings. The approval recorded a motion to approve; the mover and seconder were identified during the meeting as Mister Early (motion) and Miss Lachlan (second). The chair voted in favor during roll call. The board did not attach further conditions on the record beyond the materials submitted with the application. The transcript indicates the applicant intends rooftop improvements and rear parking; the board approved the special-exemption request as presented. The file and conditions required for final permitting (site plan, building permits, and verification that the two parking spaces are on the parcel) remain subject to standard city review and permitting procedures.