Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Maspr Schuyler Commons topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission approves Schuyler Commons conversion to mixed-use, requires affordable units and 30-year affordability term
Summary
The Planning Commission approved a major site plan converting the bottom three floors of Schuyler Commons (908 Harrison St.) from apartments to hotel use while retaining 20 studio apartments on the fourth floor; conditions include design upgrades, at least 10% of remaining apartments designated affordable and a 30-year affordability period.
The Syracuse Planning Commission approved a major site plan that will convert the bottom three floors of the existing four-story Schuyler Commons building at 908 Harrison Street to hotel rooms while preserving 20 studio apartments on the fourth floor.
Brian Bouchard of CHA Consulting told the Commission there will be no building additions or exterior changes and that parking and district regulations are met. Staff recommended several conditions, and commissioners added affordability requirements: at least 10% of the 20 remaining apartments must be designated as affordable dwelling units, certified by the city’s Department of Neighborhood and Business Development, and subject to income and rent restrictions for 30 years from the certificate of occupancy.
The Commission also included conditions to restore lawn areas between sidewalk and curb along Harrison Street and to upgrade bike racks to a staple style. The application received a SEQR negative declaration and the board approved MASPR-25-34 with seven conditions addressing affordability, site restoration and compliance steps.
Why it matters: The conversion reduces the number of apartment units but formalizes an affordable-housing requirement on a portion of the building and establishes a long-term affordability commitment recorded in approvals.
What’s next: The applicant must comply with general site-plan conditions, certify affordable units with city administrative procedures, and meet reporting or certification requirements before occupancy changes proceed.
