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Commission supports 43-townhome concept at 401 Morningside Boulevard, urges connectivity and design variety
Summary
In an initial review, the Planning Commission expressed support for a proposed 43-unit townhome development at 401 Morningside Boulevard, and recommended improved pedestrian connections, visitor parking planning, variety in building colors and materials, and more trees and open-space connections.
The Verona Planning Commission reviewed a concept for 43 townhomes in eight buildings at 401 Morningside Boulevard and expressed general support while asking the applicant to strengthen pedestrian circulation, visitor parking, landscaping and building design.
Staff said the project would require a comprehensive plan amendment (current plan calls for lower-density residential), a land division (likely a CSM), zoning map amendment and site-plan approval. The plan shows units facing public streets, interior open space and a stormwater pond; building types include four-, five- and six-unit townhome blocks. Staff encouraged improved circulation for pedestrians, emergency vehicles and cyclists.
Commissioners repeatedly urged better connections to surrounding trails and neighborhoods, more visible guest parking and additional tree planting and design variety to avoid a “valley of white” appearance. Alders and commissioners recommended shifting a unit block where feasible to increase park access, adding sidewalks to create safer walking routes around buildings and reserving or designing amenity space for families. Several commissioners suggested brighter or varied exterior colors and additional street trees to break up long facades.
No formal votes were taken because this was an initial review; staff asked the applicant to refine guest parking plans and pedestrian connections and to consider more trees and landscaping in future submittals.
