Commission approves 155‑unit workforce housing campus on North Australian Avenue

The City Commission on Oct. 27 approved resolution 248‑25 allowing a proposed 155‑unit multifamily development at 2460 North Australian Avenue that includes 79 units restricted for workforce housing. The project is oriented to serve hospitality workers and includes a dedicated employer shuttle, substantial on‑site amenities, and a high ratio of open space.

Applicant representative Rob Dinsmore said the plan centers on a single mid‑rise building with 75% open space, ground‑floor amenities (business center, salon and conference rooms) and a secure bike‑storage room with 213 spaces. Dinsmore and staff noted the site is encumbered on the south by utilities and the city’s lift station easement, which required some setbacks and tree‑planting adjustments.

City staff recommended approval with updated conditions that mitigate impacts from requested variances: site landscaping replacements, tree mitigation payments if required trees cannot be planted on‑site, and a parking variance accompanied by monitoring. The applicant and staff agreed to conditions requiring the applicant to provide a study and mitigation if parking demand exceeds on‑site capacity, and to provide employer‑provided shuttle service connecting residents to employment, groceries and local retail.

Senior planner Kevin DeFrank presented the staff recommendation and said staff finds the application complies with the affordable and workforce housing overlay standards, provided the conditions in the updated resolution are met. Commissioners voted unanimously to approve the site plan and associated variances.

The resolution includes monitoring and mitigation steps for parking demand if occupancy reaches thresholds and requires coordination with staff for landscaping and mechanical‑equipment screening given existing easements.