Machesney Park commission backs 63-unit 'Legacy at Silo Ridge' with variances; unanimous vote to forward recommendation

Machesney Park — The Planning & Zoning Commission voted unanimously on its January agenda to forward a recommendation approving a rezoning, a special-use permit and multiple variances for a proposed 63-unit multifamily project called Legacy at Silo Ridge.

Community development staff presented the proposal as three identical two-story buildings with 21 units each, built by Next Generation Construction LLC. "Staff recommends approval of the special use permit for the Multi Family Planned Unit Development with 5 conditions of approval," Carrie, community development staff, told commissioners. The project would include a mix of studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom units and a combination of attached and detached garage options.

Why it matters: The developer and staff said the project addresses a local shortage of rental housing and would likely generate less traffic than a commercial use of the same site. Neighbors raised concerns about congestion, safety and street parking near the Vondale–Perryville intersection.

What staff recommended and why: Staff asked that sidewalks shown at 4 feet be widened to the code-required 5 feet and connected to…