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Proposed Hartwick/Knox redevelopment shows 600–690 unit range; council presses for binding affordable set‑aside
Summary
The Mark at College Park LLC previewed a large student-housing plan for parcels at 4330 Hartwick/4313 Knox, offering a density range of 600–690 units (1,800–2,200 beds estimated); council members and students urged firm commitments on affordability, resident notice and traffic/bike connectivity.
Developers representing The Mark at College Park LLC presented a pre‑application to the council for a preliminary plan, certificate of adequacy and detailed site plan covering two parcels at 4330 Hartwick Road and 4313 Knox Road.
Attorney Chris Hatcher and WDG Architecture (presenter Matt Lam) described a two‑building concept with east and west buildings, a greenway pedestrian connector and a Level‑4 bridge linking amenities. The team said proposed density ranges from 600 to 690 dwelling units, which they estimated would translate to roughly 1,800–2,200 beds; the parcels total about 4.5 acres. Hatcher said the zoning application is pending a zoning hearing examiner (ZHE) opinion and that the district council will make the ultimate determination; the project team expects to submit concurrent applications for the detailed site plan and other approvals after the rezoning decision.
Councilmembers and residents expressed concern that the plan would replace an existing College Park Towers condominium complex with roughly 180 units that currently provide relatively affordable housing. Councilmember Hernandez framed the change as a potential loss of the city’s last remaining affordable condos downtown and urged the developer to prioritize an affordable set‑aside. Councilmember Whitney located the city’s letter asking that the "lesser of 200 beds or 10% of the total number of beds shall be designated as moderately priced," language the council expects to guide negotiations.
Students and current residents said outreach has not reached tenants directly and urged stronger notice procedures; the developer said statutorily required mailings to the condo board and building occupants have been made, that the site is posted and that they will work with staff to improve resident notification.
Next steps: the applicant will hold a neighborhood meeting Dec. 16, continue coordination with city planning staff on affordability options and file formal applications in the coming quarters once the ZHE opinion and district council timing are known.
