Board backs Martin Manor Phase 2 to add 105 low‑income units

The Planning & Zoning Board voted to recommend approval of Martin Manor Phase 2, an amendment and site plan that will add two new three‑story buildings and 105 low‑income housing units to the existing Martin Manor complex at 1350 North Dixie Highway.

City planner Jacob Gherman outlined the project: two new buildings (Building 4 with 24 units, Building 5 with 81 units) totaling about 98,738 square feet, preservation of a single 1940s building on site, construction of new sidewalks on North Dixie Highway and Glades Road, and tree preservation. Staff supported a technical deviation to reduce required parking from 393 spaces to 259, citing the applicant’s traffic study finding about 1.1 spaces per unit for existing low‑income housing and a lower expected parking demand. Staff recommended approval with conditions.

Petitioner Ellie Zacharaitis said construction on Phase 1 is underway and noted 47 units remain occupied on the southern portion until Phase 1 buildings obtain certificates of occupancy; she said preserving existing mature trees and the historic building was a priority. Board members asked about unit counts and phasing; no public speakers asked for delays. The board approved the future land use amendment and the site plan separately; both passed on roll calls recorded in favor (6–0). The approvals are subject to the standard conditions and the previously required preservation measures for the 1940s building.

The project will add affordable housing stock in Boca Raton’s RH‑designated property and includes on‑site and off‑site landscape improvements and sidewalk connections required under the site plan approval. Construction phasing will align with the occupancy and demolition plan described by the applicant.