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Planning commission OKs conditional use permit to restore duplex at 205 Washington Street
Summary
The Blacksburg Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of CUP 25‑4 to convert a former office at 205 Washington Street back to a two‑unit duplex in the Old Town Residential district, subject to two staff‑recommended conditions including unit occupancy controls and substantial conformance to the staff application.
The Blacksburg Planning Commission on Nov. 4 voted to recommend approval of a conditional use permit to return the building at 205 Washington Street to a two‑unit stacked duplex, a move staff said aligns with the town’s goals for varied housing opportunities in Old Town.
Kenzie O’Shea, a town planner, told commissioners the parcel lies in the Old Town Residential (OTR) zoning district and that the proposal would restore the former multi‑unit residence to two 2‑bedroom, 1‑bath units while using the basement for mechanical systems and storage. O’Shea said the comprehensive plan supports “varied housing opportunities throughout town, especially for non‑student rentals,” and noted the site sits in a medium‑density future‑land‑use category that allows up to 20 bedrooms per acre.
Tom Koons of TKA Architects, representing the prospective owner, described modest exterior work—cleaning and matching siding, adding trim and repainting—and interior renovations to open the floor plan and update mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. Koons said the owner intends to market the units to young professionals but acknowledged students could rent the units.
Staff recommended two conditions: substantial conformance with the approved plans and a clarified occupancy standard. Commissioners pressed staff to clarify whether occupancy limits applied per unit or per property; staff confirmed the standard would be enforced per unit. The applicant also proposed landscaping improvements including a modified Type A buffer yard with a four‑foot architectural screen and street trees along Washington Street.
After brief discussion and no public comment, the commission moved and voted to recommend adoption of CUP 25‑4 with the staff conditions. The item will now go to Town Council for final action.
