Commission backs special-use permit for 3310 Q Street to allow two two-family dwellings with accessory units

The Planning Commission recommended approval for a special-use permit authorizing two two-family detached dwellings with two accessory dwelling units at 3310 Q Street.

Planning staff recommended approval, finding the proposal consistent with the Richmond 300 designation for neighborhood mixed use and with the site’s context. The plan would replace an existing cinder-block structure with two abutting two-family dwellings designed to appear attached from the street and would include two accessory dwelling units at the rear. The site design calls for three-story buildings, cementitious siding and landscaping; staff recommended that final building materials and site improvements be substantially as shown on the submitted plans.

The applicant, represented by Beau Gillette of Baker Development Resources, said the design included a mix of unit sizes (including family-sized units) and that first-floor units were designed with wider doors and some accessibility features intended to allow conversion for mobility-limited tenants if needed.

Mark Olinger of the Churchill Central Civic Association raised questions about whether the units were truly accessible and whether neighborhood notification had been adequate; the applicant and staff said they had done outreach and would update door sizes and other details as needed. Commissioners asked several technical questions on accessibility, unit mix and site grading; staff said subdivision review and building-permit review would address final grading and building-code requirements.

After discussion, the commission voted to forward the special-use permit to City Council with a recommendation of approval. The roll-call vote recorded affirmative votes from all present commissioners.