Concept approved for five‑story, 82‑unit affordable housing at 164 N. Grant Avenue (Opportunity 1)

The Downtown Commission reviewed a conceptual application for a five‑story, 82‑unit affordable housing building proposed at 164 North Grant Avenue. The applicant presented a concept that would demolish the existing one‑story commercial structure (constructed in 1949) and replace it with a mixed‑use residential building featuring vinyl siding, fiber‑cement panels and brick accents, a rooftop terrace and ground‑floor amenities.

Staff told the commission that the Downtown District Code requires a certificate of appropriateness for demolition and that a replacement use be reviewed. Staff found the concept generally consistent with Downtown Design Guidelines provided the applicant uses durable materials, locates service parking to the rear where feasible, and includes bicycle parking. Staff requested exterior photos and recommended a short house‑history report documenting the building to be demolished.

During the conceptual review, commissioners and staff suggested stronger visual and functional connections between the two proposed buildings on the site (the project includes a second building on nearby parcels), extending plantings and making pedestrian entries more legible. Staff asked the applicant to provide a revised site plan showing how shared or dedicated moving/loading zones and accessible parking would function, and to study the alley and circulation so that trash collection and pedestrian movement are not impeded.

The commission accepted the conceptual submission and feedback; staff noted that the applicant will return with updated site plans and materials during the formal review cycle. The commission emphasized inclusion of bicycle parking and coordination on parking/curb access with Columbus State and other adjacent property owners.