Commission approves subdivision of downtown Pearson properties at 512 Front Street

The Natchitoches Planning & Zoning Commission approved a subdivision of a downtown parcel fronting 512 Front Street that separates long-standing commercial buildings into distinct parcels to enable sale and clearer property divisions.

Zachary Midendorf, representing Pearson Realty Corporation, told commissioners the revised plan reconfigures parking and access, provides a designated dumpster location and redistributes parking so each building has reasonable access. The plan keeps an existing parcel (referred to in the materials as "Blue 2") separate while subdividing the larger parcel into Red 1, Red 2 and Red 3; the rear 27 feet of each subdivided property will carry reciprocal easements so the properties can cross the rear 27 feet of one another. Midendorf said the intent was to "more equitably distribute the parking to the different buildings, as well as improve the traffic flow and the access and egress to the rear doors of each of the buildings."

Commissioners and staff discussed the placement of the dumpster and the easements. The director confirmed there is no off-site parking requirement in the Central Business District and said a parking designation on the survey is not required by the zoning rules. Commissioners noted the buildings date from the 1930s and said recent insurance and fire claims made it impractical to insure the property as a single parcel, prompting heirs and owners to divide the property along existing firewalls and building separations.

No public opposition was recorded. Commissioner McAllister moved for approval; the motion was seconded and carried on a voice vote. The director requested the applicant provide the final signed documents and coordinate any administrative steps required for recordation.