Planning commission approves 48‑unit affordable project at 3335 Victory Boulevard with conditions

The Portsmouth Planning Commission on Jan. 6 voted 5–2 to approve a Woda Cooper Development proposal to build a four‑story, 48‑unit apartment building at 3335 Victory Boulevard, a 1.72‑acre infill parcel currently split between a car wash and vacant land.

City planning staff recommended approval of use permit UP‑25‑13, saying the project advances the city’s comprehensive plan and strategic housing objectives by adding workforce housing targeted at households earning up to 80% of area median income. Bill Landfair, principal planner, said the 4‑story L‑shaped building would include 7 one‑bedroom, 32 two‑bedroom and 11 three‑bedroom units, about 72 surface parking spaces, 45% open space and at least 50% brick on the façade.

The applicant, Woda Cooper, described the development as a 9% tax‑credit workforce housing project with rents expected in the approximate range of $550 to $1,400 depending on unit size and income tier. Bruce Watts, vice president of development, said the company will provide an on‑site community room, resident services space and in‑house property management. He said similar projects in the region have leaned on resident services partnerships and feature elevators and energy efficiency measures.

Commissioners pressed staff and the applicant on pedestrian access and corridor planning. One commissioner asked whether a crosswalk or sidewalk improvements would connect the project to businesses and bus stops across Victory Boulevard; staff said engineering and site‑plan review will determine warrants for crosswalks and sidewalks and noted a bus stop directly in front of the property. Other questions focused on stormwater management, building setbacks adjacent to single‑family homes and whether Portsmouth Public Schools had been consulted about projected student impacts.

Neighbors who spoke at the hearing opposed the project’s scale and placement. Denise Peoples, who said she has lived nearby for more than 45 years, raised concerns about security and resale value. Reverend Steven O. Peoples asked whether affordable housing is being concentrated in established Black neighborhoods and urged commissioners to weigh neighborhood fit. The applicant acknowledged the comments and said it will meet with the school division to review enrollment projections.

Commissioner Jiggens moved to approve UP‑25‑13 with the conditions recommended by staff; Vice Chair Taylor seconded. The commission recorded the motion as approved by a vote of 5–2. The action will proceed to the city council for final consideration per the usual review process.

The agenda packet lists the property owner as Riptide 4 LLC (tax parcel 534, parcel 31) and identifies Bill Landfair as staff coordinator for the file. The approved permit includes conditions (noted in staff materials) addressing site plan, landscaping, stormwater, and facade materials.