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DDA approves master plan action items recommending denser, mixed-use development on Macomb Street
Summary
The DDA approved a set of master-plan action items that call for zoning updates on Macomb Street: permitting attached housing and mixed-use developments, exploring increased building heights, reducing front setbacks, and adopting flexible parking standards to encourage a more walkable downtown.
The Grosse Ile Downtown Development Authority approved master plan action items that would guide zoning updates for Macomb Street and related redevelopment sites.
Ross described several recommended changes intended to create a more walkable, mixed-use downtown: allowing attached housing (duplexes, triplexes), permitting ground-floor retail with housing above, considering increasing building height allowances from two to three stories (and adjusting a current 35-foot/2-story limit), reducing front setbacks so buildings can sit closer to the sidewalk, and adopting more flexible parking standards so parking can be placed to the side or rear of buildings. He said the recommendations also include preapproved building plans to lower design costs and to discourage new single-family construction along Macomb Street in favor of commercial and multi-family uses.
Board members asked for clarification about front-setback dimensions, parking formulas and whether bed-and-breakfasts or short-term rentals would be allowed. Ross said zoning amendments will be reviewed by the DDA before going to the planning commission, and that the plan update work is coordinated with a streetscape design and a state-funded plan update. After discussion the board moved to approve the DDA master plan action items and the motion carried.
