Chester planning commission approves SilverCare conversion of vacant hospital into 94-unit senior residence, with waivers and phased sidewalk work deferred

The City of Chester Planning Commission on a voice vote recommended approval of preliminary/final land development plans to convert a vacant hospital into SilverCare Senior Housing, a 94‑unit, age‑restricted (62 and older) residential building to be completed in two phases.

Planning staff told the commission the submission responds to prior reviews and noted the applicant is not proposing new fences, has provided a vegetated buffer along West Tenth Street, and confirmed internal refuse will be stored inside the building and hauled out on pickup days. The fire marshal has approved a 48‑foot fire engine turning template under separate cover, staff said.

The project is in the C2R (General Commercial Residential) district and would include site improvements to add ADA access, reconfigure parking and walking paths, make new utility connections along West Tenth Street, and repave portions of the existing pavement. The commission also approved six requested waivers to the Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance (SALDO) and one deferment request, subject to conditions in planning and engineering review letters.

Paul (planning staff) said the applicant provided…