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Commission approves two duplexes with accessory units at 3310 Q Street after accessibility and design questions
Summary
The Planning Commission recommended approval to City Council of a special‑use permit for 3310 Q Street to allow two two‑family detached dwellings and two accessory dwelling units, following discussion about accessible entrances, landscaping and neighborhood outreach.
The Planning Commission voted unanimously Wednesday to forward a recommendation of approval to City Council for ordinance 2025‑023, authorizing special‑use approval for 3310 Q Street to permit two two‑family detached dwellings and two accessory dwelling units (ADUs).
Planning staff, represented by David Watson, recommended approval, saying the proposed development aligns with the Richmond 300 master plan's neighborhood mixed‑use land‑use designation and fits the area’s building patterns. The proposal calls for two abutting two‑family buildings configured as flats, with each structure containing multiple unit sizes and 1‑bedroom ADUs in the rear.
Will Cheleb of Baker Development Resources, representing the applicant, said the project replaces an existing cinder‑block structure with new housing that includes a mix of unit sizes — one‑, two‑ and three‑bedroom units — and modern materials. Cheleb said the first‑floor residential units include wider doors and other features intended to improve accessibility, and that the applicant agreed to several design refinements requested in neighborhood meetings.
Churchill Central Civic Association representatives urged more clarity on accessibility and circulation. Mark Bollinger said the association submitted multiple comments and continued to press whether first‑floor units would provide accessible routes; he said some follow‑up responses had not reached association members. Other neighbors asked for more landscaping, clearer walkways from parking areas to public sidewalks and better relationship between the ADUs and primary structures.
Cheleb said the applicant will revise side‑entry doors to a 36‑inch width and can work on other details; staff noted the special‑use permit requires final plans showing building materials, elevations and site improvements substantially as presented. The commission received public comment both for and against but, after discussion, voted to recommend approval and forward the application to City Council.
The motion to approve passed by roll call with all commissioners voting in favor.
