Commission backs Ellington mixed‑use modification that preserves trip neutrality
Summary
Commissioners recommended approval of a general development plan modification for the Ellington commercial site allowing a modest increase in nonresidential square footage and clarification of an allowed hotel room count; applicant committed to maintain trip neutrality so the change won’t increase approved traffic generation.
The commission recommended approval of an amendment to an existing general development plan (PDMU19‑05) for an Ellington mixed‑use site in the Ellington outlet mall area. The proposal clarifies permitted commercial floor area (increasing approved nonresidential square footage from 125,000 to 150,000 sq ft) and identifies a maximum hotel size (a 126‑room hotel) without changing previously approved residential units. Applicant counsel said the GDP change does not raise trip generation above levels already approved for the site; staff confirmed the proposal will be subject to updated, use‑specific traffic and stormwater review at final site plan and that any added uses that increase trips would require additional review and potential mitigation. The commission voted to recommend approval (unanimous in recorded roll call).
