Commission approves preliminary PUD for 30‑unit Cherry Creek duplex development at 901 South Cherry

The Ottawa City Commission approved an ordinance to advance a preliminary planned unit development (PUD) called Cherry Creek at 901 South Cherry Street that would allow construction of 30 dwelling units in 15 duplex buildings.

Planner Zach Martin presented the application, noting the property is an undeveloped roughly 5‑acre tract zoned R‑2 and that the planning commission held a public hearing on July 25 with notice to surrounding property owners; no comments were received at that hearing. Martin said phase 1 is shown in the preliminary materials, building facades are somewhat modern in style, the project is organized around a central drive connecting East Ninth and Tenth Streets, and the developer has indicated the development is targeted toward university students though no occupancy restrictions were proposed.

Martin said the internal drive will be treated as a private drive with parking rather than a public street; city staff, including the city engineer, are continuing to work on stormwater details that will be resolved with the final plat and final PUD documents. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about tree preservation and stormwater; Martin said those issues are being addressed.

The commission approved the preliminary PUD ordinance by roll‑call vote; staff will return with the final plat and final PUD materials for subsequent consideration.

Next steps: applicant to complete final plat and PUD documents with stormwater engineering information and return for final approval.