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Planning board recommends approval of Art Deco mixed‑use project at 398 NE 6th Ave, conditions loading improvements
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Summary
The board recommended City Commission approval of an Art Deco four‑story mixed‑use project at 398 NE 6th Ave but required the applicant to maximize an off‑street loading pad (relocate transformer/extend pad) to address alley circulation and move‑in concerns; the motion passed with one dissent.
The Planning & Zoning Board on Feb. 23 recommended that the City Commission approve a four‑story, Art Deco–style mixed‑use building at 398 Northeast 6th Avenue, subject to a condition that the applicant maximize the length of the off‑street loading pad to serve deliveries and move‑ins.
Bradley Miller of Urban Design Studio presented the Level 4 site plan showing 8 residential units above approximately 1,160 square feet of ground‑floor retail, a rooftop pool and amenity deck, and 20 on‑site parking spaces (including tandem stalls). Miller said the design emphasizes a strong corner presence and activated streetscape consistent with CBD standards but acknowledged a minor encroachment of about 2 feet 1 inch into the 20‑foot setback above the third floor for an architectural tower element.
Staff explained the code's loading requirements (dimensional standards such as 12x30 for certain uses) and noted the applicant proposed a 5x14 loading pad plus a 2‑foot alley dedication; that configuration does not meet dimensional code but would provide some on‑site loading. Several board members raised concerns that typical moving trucks (and frequent commercial deliveries) require larger loading berths and could block the alley and impede circulation. Members suggested the applicant relocate a transformer and extend the loading pad length north and/or south where feasible.
Price Patton moved — and the board seconded — a recommendation to the City Commission finding the project consistent with the comprehensive plan and LDRs, subject to a condition that the applicant "maximize" the off‑street loading length (by relocating the transformer and other site adjustments where feasible). The motion passed on roll call with Mitch Katz recorded as the only 'No.' Board members otherwise praised the architecture and the project's contribution to the downtown streetscape.
