Planning Commission approves Apex Duplexes on Elim Street over neighbors’ density and safety concerns
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Summary
The Little Rock Planning Commission approved a revised planned commercial development/conditional use permit for five duplex lots (10 units) at the 3800 block of Elim Street, despite neighbors’ objections about density and safety; staff recommended approval subject to conditions.
The Little Rock Planning Commission on Feb. 12 approved a revised PCD/conditional use permit for the Apex Duplexes at the 3800 block of Elim Street after the applicant reduced the project to five duplex lots, for a total of 10 units.
Staff member Mr. Moore told commissioners the applicant submitted a revised site plan on Jan. 22 that removes proposed duplexes on the two northernmost lots and preserves an existing single-family home. The revised plan sets a 30-foot front setback, proposes a double driveway and two parking pads per duplex, and includes landscaping between parking areas. "Staff continues to support the proposed conditional use permit application, and staff recommends approval subject to compliance with the comments and conditions outlined in paragraphs d and e in the staff analysis of the agenda staff report," Moore said.
Parker Spalding, representing Apex Real Estate Investments LLC, and owner Chase Calhoun described outreach to neighbors and said they had determined alley access behind the lots was infeasible because of a utility pole, lack of grading and fencing. Calhoun said the developer refurbished a dilapidated single-family house on two lots and sold it to an owner-occupant, which reduced overall density from earlier proposals. "So we did lower the density a little bit," Calhoun said, adding the duplexes will be three-bedroom, two-bath units with individual driveways, two parking spots and fenced backyards.
Two residents told commissioners they opposed the project. Sandy Becker, who met with the developer and neighborhood members, praised some construction design elements but said neighbors worry the proposed layout—two-family buildings on 48-foot lots—would create a block of tightly packed rental units resembling a "mini apartment complex" rather than the single-family character they prefer. "That was the concern ... this development ... is a lot real close together," Becker said.
Ashley Romero, speaking for her uncle and other longtime neighbors on Eagle Street, said the neighborhood is calm and that duplex construction would jeopardize safety and calm. Romero listed fears including robberies, drug sales and shootings near duplexes on a nearby street and urged denial. "We are totally against this construction of duplexes because ... the robberies, drug sales, and shootings begin day and night," Romero said.
Calhoun responded that the developer screens tenants and aims to build higher-quality, affordable units appropriate for the neighborhood. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about parking and unit counts; the applicant confirmed the current plan provides 10 units across five duplex buildings and that earlier versions proposed seven lots (14 units).
A commissioner moved to approve the revised PCD subject to compliance with the staff conditions; the motion was seconded and carried on a roll-call vote. The approval requires the applicant to meet conditions set out in the staff report.
The commission encouraged continued communication between the developer and neighbors. No further public comments were offered, and the meeting adjourned.
