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NFP Review Board Recommends ZBA Grant Variances for Westgate Sports Complex with Native-Planting Condition
Summary
The NFP Review Board voted to recommend the Zoning Board of Appeals grant variances allowing a 20-acre Westgate Sports Complex at 1617 North Drake Road to preserve 13.5% of woodland (where 25% is normally required) and to permit protected-slope impacts, adding a condition that remaining green areas include native plantings. The recommendation moves the project to the ZBA in January; site plan review and additional approvals would follow.
The NFP Review Board recommended on Dec. 16 that the Zoning Board of Appeals grant two variances for a proposed Westgate Sports Complex on a 20-acre portion of a 62-acre parcel at 1617 North Drake Road.
Nolan, the city staff presenter, told the board the applicant seeks a variance to preserve 13.5% of the woodland on the 20-acre lot where the Natural Features Protection (NFP) ordinance would normally require 25% preservation, and a variance to allow impacts to protected slopes and slope setbacks within the project limits. The staff report framed the board’s role as advisory; final authority rests with the Zoning Board of Appeals.
The project team said the facility is intended as a regional sports hub and outlined why the chosen site on the city’s northwest edge was preferred: highway access (US‑131), room for a large indoor court complex and proximity to hotels and restaurants. Jane Ghosh, president and CEO of Discover Kalamazoo, said a feasibility study validated local demand and…
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