Commission advances Duvin Place South preliminary plan amid resident concerns about tree buffers and parks

The Livingston Parish Planning Commission voted unanimously to proceed with the preliminary site plan for Duvin Place South, an approximately 8-acre project at the corner of Forest Gillette Road and Duvin Road that will include retail, office space and a hotel site.

Developer representatives described the project and said planning staff’s comments had been addressed; staff recommended approval. “All of our comments have been addressed. We would recommend approval,” Morgan, planning staff, told the commission.

During public comment, Ellen Ewing, who said she lives in the Livingston Trace neighborhood, raised concerns about tree clearing and the loss of green space, noting a lack of sidewalks and parks within walking distance for current residents. “...I’m concerned with the loss of green space in the area... the trees are being cleared all the way to property lines... there’s no tree buffer left between parcels,” Ewing said.

Staff responded that parcels are privately owned and that requirements for parks or tree retention are limited in this context; staff suggested residents may work with developers during project negotiations to request retention of tree lines. Commissioners also discussed how vacant parcels zoned residential are being treated for buffer/fence expectations and confirmed they are treated as though a residence exists for buffer purposes.

Commissioner Clemons moved to proceed; the motion received a second from Commissioner Burns and passed unanimously.

Votes at a glance: Engler — Yes; Clemons — Yes; Wax — Yes; Dana — Yes; Burns — Yes; Long — Yes.

Commissioners said additional technical and design details — including any negotiated tree retention or pedestrian amenities — would be handled during final plan review or through direct discussions between neighbors and developers.