Plan commission recommends rezoning 4.87 acres for 12 duplexes at Rapids Trail and River Road

The Plan Commission voted to recommend rezoning nearly 4.87 acres at Rapids Trail and River Road from B5 (community business) to RD2 with a Planned Unit Development overlay, enabling a proposed 12‑duplex (24‑unit) development.

Staff described the site as long and narrow with an existing AT&T utility structure and a small central man‑made wetland the DNR has cleared for fill. The proposal calls for a private drive, duplex units with attached garages, front landscaping and a berm along River Road. The applicant said units will be modest ranch‑style duplexes (about 1,300 square feet), with optional finished basement space and attached front garages.

Staff recommended approval with conditions, including recording an access easement for maintenance of the AT&T structure prior to issuance of building permits and either maintaining the existing screening around that structure or providing replacement landscaping if arborvitae are removed. Commissioners asked for more masonry and architectural variety where visible; the applicant said increased materials would raise costs and that the design was intended to keep units at an affordable price point.

A local resident and the district representative expressed support for converting the long‑vacant commercial parcel to residential, while requesting that sidewalks connect sensibly to planned future development. The applicant said they would negotiate with AT&T and, if necessary, replace or enhance the existing screening; they also committed to address engineering department and water utility comments prior to permits.

The motion to recommend rezoning and to approve the PUD site plan and architectural review (with the noted conditions) passed unanimously.