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Commission approves rezoning for Franklin Street Lofts; developer plans 56 apartments in former warehouse
Summary
The Area Planning Commission approved rezoning to allow conversion of an historic warehouse at 306 North Seventh Avenue into about 56 apartments and mixed-use space; the applicant said the $12.5 million project will connect to the Greenway and requires parking plans and permits before building can proceed.
The Area Planning Commission on Nov. 7 voted to recommend rezoning of 306 North Seventh Avenue from M-3 (industrial) to C-2 (commercial) to permit a mixed-use rehabilitation that the applicant said will create roughly 56 residential units.
John Clark, representing Franklin Street Lofts LLC, described the project to the commission as a roughly $12.5 million rehabilitation to convert the existing warehouse into studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units. "This will be about a 12 and a half million dollar investment right on Franklin Street," Clark said, adding that the site connects to the Greenway and downtown amenities.
Staff’s report traced the building's industrial history back to 1919 and earlier manufacturing uses, and noted the structure has stood in multiple stages of construction. The applicant said many units will be custom layouts because of the building's age and structure.
Commissioners asked about historic designation (the applicant said the building is not designated historic) and structural integrity; Clark said a structural engineer has reviewed the beams and found them sound. Commissioners also discussed parking; Clark said the applicant has a parking-lot design and expects to meet code once they regain control of a rear lot area.
During the roll call, Commissioner Milligan recused himself, citing personal connections; staff recorded the vote as 9 yes, 0 no and 1 abstention, and the rezoning recommendation passed.
The rezoning is intended to be consistent with the city’s 2035 future land use map and city redevelopment goals for West Franklin Street. The applicant and staff noted additional permits and any assistance from city and state programs would be separate steps before construction begins.
Next steps include submission of site plans, permit applications and any requested public incentives or technical assistance the applicant pursues.
