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Commission reviews 43‑unit townhome concept at 401 Morningside Boulevard; commissioners generally supportive
Summary
City staff presented an initial concept for 43 townhomes in eight buildings at 401 Morningside Boulevard; commissioners generally supported the plan but asked for stronger pedestrian circulation and improved landscaping.
City staff and the applicant presented an initial concept for 43 townhomes in eight buildings at 401 Morningside Boulevard; the site is currently identified for lower density residential uses, so staff said a comprehensive plan amendment, land division (likely a CSM), a zoning map amendment and a site plan approval will all be required.
Staff asked the Planning Commission for feedback on the design and connectivity. The proposed units front public streets, interior open space, or a pond to the east; several commissioners urged stronger pedestrian circulation, better access for emergency vehicles and cyclists, and additional on‑site guest parking and landscaping near unit entries. Commissioner Wood suggested adding brighter, more varied building colors rather than a uniform “gray” palette, while Alder Swanson proposed an exterior sidewalk loop to improve equitable access to the interior open space.
Why it matters: The proposal would increase housing density in a part of the city where staff indicated the current plan calls for lower density; commissioners generally supported the townhome form as a way to add “missing middle” housing while preserving interior open space.
What’s next: The applicant will continue to refine circulation, parking, landscaping and building design in coordination with staff; formal applications for the comp‑plan amendment, land division and zoning changes will follow.
