Planning commission recommends approval of Knox on Watson multifamily plan with access condition

The Planning and Zoning Commission on Aug. 6 recommended approval, by a 7–2 vote, of PD25‑9 (Knox on Watson), an 82‑unit multifamily development at 1401 South Watson Road, after the applicant revised elevations to meet masonry requirements and agreed to several site improvements.

Kevin Charles, principal planner, said the applicant revised elevations to average about 53% masonry and added security measures, fencing and EV charging. The proposal includes 83 structured parking stalls (35 enclosed garages and 48 carports), a fenced dog park, a children’s playground and a walking trail that will link to Karl Knox Park. Staff flagged floodplain proximity and emergency access as priorities.

Developer representatives Jake Mooney and Sarah Andre said they preserved trees, added security camera locations and will provide a small on‑site multipurpose space intended as a police substation. They also committed to an after‑school learning center and energy‑efficiency measures in the units; several of those commitments will be recorded in a land‑use restriction.

Commissioners focused on emergency access because part of the site abuts floodplain. The commission required the applicant to secure a second point of access prior to obtaining a building permit; the condition aims to ensure emergency responders can reach the site if primary access is impaired. Commissioner Blake made the motion to approve with that condition and Commissioner Greer seconded; the motion passed 7–2. The commission’s vote is a recommendation that will go to city council.

What happens next: Staff will include the condition in the commission’s transmittal to city council; the project will return to council for final action. The applicant said it will pursue the required access and continue coordination with staff.