Commission recommends conceptual approval for Turner Farm Phase 1 with amended amenity timing

The Washington City Planning Commission on June 18 recommended approval of the conceptual plan for Turner Farm Phase 1, a 24.53‑acre portion of a larger planned unit development, and approved relocating 4 acres of planned commercial zoning adjacent to Telegraph Street.

Staff presented the proposal, which shows a mix of product types across three pods. Pod 1 is a build‑to‑rent product with 135 units on about 11.38 acres (an 11.9 units‑per‑acre density), the applicant said, composed of 60 single‑story two‑bedroom units and 75 two‑story three‑bedroom units. Staff noted required parking for Pod 1 is 331 spaces and the project provides 332. Pod 1 amenities shown include a dog park, putting green, clubhouse, splash pad, pool and pickleball courts; staff listed a required amenity total of 27,000 square feet and that the plan provides approximately 31,449 square feet.

Pod 2 proposes 59 single‑family and “next‑gen” homes on about 13.15 acres; the plan shows smaller lot sizes and an alternate setback plan the applicant requested, which staff said otherwise complies with PUDR standards. Staff flagged a natural spring on the northwest corner of the property; the developer said it will pursue third‑party hydrology studies and work with public works to manage or relocate the spring as needed.

Commissioners and the applicant debated the location and timing of amenities. Staff’s original condition required completion timing for amenities; several commissioners and the developer discussed making amenity delivery more phased. The commission approved an amended condition (motion carried) requiring Pod 1 amenities be completed before 51% of Pod 1 is built and that an additional 7,600 square feet of amenities be provided in Pod 2 before 51% of Pod 2. Commissioner Anderson moved to recommend approval of Z‑25‑16 with the two findings and 10 staff conditions, including the revised condition 9; Commissioner Davis seconded. Voting was Anderson — aye; Mitchell — aye; Tupelo — aye; Davis — aye; Bullock — aye. The recommendation will go to city council.

Developer representatives (Matt Lou, Ascendland Consultants) said they are working on hydrology and noted land‑ownership questions for future phases that could affect amenity placement. Staff said the relocation of commercial acreage maintains the same net commercial acreage but moves the 4 acres adjacent to Telegraph Street. The commission’s motion and amended condition will be forwarded to city council for consideration.