Commission recommends approval of special-use permit at 3200 Second Avenue with conditions to retain duplex

The Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of a special-use permit for 3200 Second Avenue that would retain an existing duplex and authorize construction of additional single-family detached and attached dwellings, producing eight total units across the site if developed as shown.

Planner Allison Oliver presented the revised proposal and recommended approval, noting the site is in an R-6 Single-Family Attached Residential District and has a Richmond 300 future land-use designation of Residential. Staff said the proposal preserves an existing two-family dwelling (currently occupied at rents described by the applicant as below 50% area median income, but not income-restricted), adds six new units across additional structures, includes right-of-way sidewalk and street-tree improvements, and increases on-site parking relative to an earlier layout.

Applicant representative described a negotiated approach intended to preserve the existing duplex rather than demolish it and build six attached units by right. The developer reduced density relative to an earlier application, retained the duplex, added one parking space (amending on-site parking from three to four), and consolidated denser attached units along Burn Street rather than Second Avenue to better respect the historic lot pattern. The duplex exterior will be renovated, and the developer committed to front porches and other design elements to maintain neighborhood character.

Multiple nearby residents spoke in opposition at the public hearing. Speakers cited concerns that the parcel is too dense for the block, that on-site parking and nearby streets will not accommodate additional vehicles, and that long-standing sidewalk, drainage, and public-safety issues remain unresolved. Speakers also warned of displacement pressures as surrounding properties redevelop. The applicant and staff said the site-specific plan includes new sidewalks, street trees, and an access easement for refuse collection; they also noted that by-right development could demolish the duplex and construct six attached units without the SUP.

Commission discussion recognized neighborhood concerns while emphasizing the benefits of preserving existing housing and the additional design controls available through the SUP process. Commissioners referenced the developer’s design changes and the added public-right-of-way improvements when supporting the motion.

Vote: The commission approved the special-use permit and will forward the recommendation and proposed conditions to City Council.