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Planning commission backs Tunnel to Towers supportive housing; project heads to City Council
Summary
The commission approved entitlements for a 118‑unit, three‑story supportive housing project for veterans proposed by the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, despite public questions about parking, drainage and onsite services. Staff recommended approval and the application will move to the May 20 city council meeting.
The City of Las Vegas Planning Commission voted to approve entitlements for a Tunnel to Towers Foundation project proposing a three‑story, 118‑unit studio residence aimed at long‑term supportive housing for veterans near Rancho Drive and Jones Boulevard.
Staff told commissioners the development furthers the 2050 master plan objective of increasing housing options and includes urban-heat‑island mitigation measures. Robert Cunningham of Tanny Engineering, representing the applicant, said the site will include on‑site amenities, a secure main entrance and a mix of outdoor spaces and programming; the project requests an alternative parking standard of 120 spaces where 168 normally would be required because the operator estimates about 65% of residents will have vehicles.
The proposal drew a mix of questions from neighbors and residents, who pressed the applicant on contingency plans if parking demand exceeds projections, drainage and security. "What’s the backup plan in the event there are more parking spots that are needed?" asked Phil Stringer, a nearby resident. Cunningham said the facility plans shuttles and proprietary vans, has public-transit access (two bus stops are nearby), and that staff reviewed a parking‑demand study supporting the requested standard.
Several veterans and veterans‑service representatives spoke in favor. "This is something that has been needed in this city for decades," said Vince Pome, who said veterans in the community had vetted the operator and were satisfied with its model.
Commissioners discussed the parking study, neighborhood outreach and ongoing drainage work. Commissioner Taylor noted the applicant submitted a traffic and parking demand study reviewed by planning staff, and several commissioners emphasized binding conditions on drainage study approval and landscape mitigation. Commissioner Walters moved approval of items 18A–18D subject to staff conditions; the motion carried. The project will move forward to the City Council meeting on May 20 for final consideration.
The commission’s action is approval of entitlements and waivers subject to standard conditions and the applicant’s agreement to the revised landscape and drainage conditions; it is not yet a construction permit. The City Council will consider the project under the commission’s recommendation on May 20.
