Planning commission approves major modification to PDD 60 to allow 48 residential units at 255 Canal Street

The Shelton Planning and Zoning Commission on April 27 approved a major modification to Planned Development District No. 60 that allows 48 two‑bedroom residential units with on‑site parking at 255 Canal Street.

The amendment, presented by planning staff, updates final site development plans for Site E of the Shelton Riverfront Development. Planning staff read the application into the record: "The application proposes 48 2 bedroom residential units with on-site parking," and submitted supporting exhibits including engineering reviews, fire marshal comments, and a conservation commission letter.

Commissioners said the modification complied with applicable zoning provisions but emphasized several conditions the applicant must satisfy before final building approvals. Key conditions written into the adopted resolution include designation of adequate visitor parking on final site plans to the commission's satisfaction, substitution of native plantings for any non‑native species identified in the landscaping plan, compliance with FEMA flood regulations and elevation specifications, installation of riverbank stabilization and retaining walls as required for river wall construction, and coordination with the city on river wall access points until the planned bridge connection is complete. The resolution also requires posting of bonding as determined by the city engineer to ensure completion of critical site improvements.

Planning staff noted the applicant proposed a parking ratio of "1.9 spaces per unit" and agreed to address visitor parking provisions on final plans; the commission recorded that one or two units may be assigned only a single parking space and that the deviation would be reflected in pricing. Commissioners discussed whether to require final site plan revisions before issuance of a building permit or to rely on standard conditions; staff and legal counsel explained that final site plan requirements and building‑permit review provide enforcement points, and the resolution was amended to require visitor parking designation prior to issuance of any building permit.

Commissioner Tecky stressed safety and access, saying the proposal "needs to come with safety, parking, and access." After discussion and edits to the draft, the commission voted to adopt the resolution as amended. A roll call recorded affirmative votes by Chairman Christiano; Commissioners Kelly, Motto, Ticky, Oppel and Bartola. The motion passed 6 to 0.

The approval is effective April 27, 2026; staff will require the applicant to satisfy the conditions in the resolution and return final plans in accordance with the commission's direction.