Planning commission backs revised Safe Passage plan at 217 Franklin Street, citing federal grant and smaller footprint

DeKalb — The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended that City Council approve an amended final development plan and final plat for Safe Passage’s 217 Franklin Street site, endorsing a smaller, single‑story shelter design and additional on‑site parking.

Christine Colina, development director at Safe Passage, told the commission the revised plan reduces the previously approved two‑story, 42,000‑square‑foot design to a more efficient one‑story, 14,025‑square‑foot building with an additional 2,800 square feet of basement. Colina said the redesign aligns with available funding, including a $2,500,000 federal appropriations grant, and preserves program features including approximately 18 residential dwellings and increased on‑site parking for clients and staff.

City staff presented background tracing the site’s rezoning in 2020 and explained that the change in footprint required returning the plan to the commission and council. Staff reported the updated site will provide 29 on‑site parking spaces (an increase from 18 previously), addresses a sanitary sewer easement relocated beneath the building footprint, and includes life‑safety measures such as sprinklers and alarm/security systems.

Commissioners moved to recommend approval subject to addressing all staff comments prior to issuance of a building permit and recording the final plat. The motion passed by roll call.

Dan noted the applicant had conducted a ceremonial groundbreaking and projected construction to begin soon with an opening target in late 2026. Commissioners asked for confirmation of outstanding staff comments and for coordination on shared or overflow parking agreements; Colina said discussions continue with a nearby church for supplemental parking.