Paducah Planning Commission approves final plat for 1501 Broadway despite neighborhood objections

The Paducah Planning Commission on March 2 adopted a resolution approving the final subdivision plat for property at 1501 Broadway (presented as the Forest Landing subdivision), voting 5–1 after lengthy public comment from Jefferson Street neighbors urging the commission to table the matter for further design work.

Neighbors, neighborhood association leaders and nearby residents described the property as part of the historic Jefferson Street area and urged changes to ensure new houses fit the block. "We think there are issues that still deserve discussion and we're going to ask you to table the motion tonight," said Bill Kascarelli of the Jefferson Street Historic Association, citing concerns about house orientation and neighborhood compatibility. Sue Ararp noted Jefferson Street is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and asked whether an archaeological survey could be required under Kentucky antiquities law.

Several nearby residents raised technical and design objections. Richard Taylor, who lives across the street, presented a detailed alternative layout that would reallocate lot widths so more houses face Jefferson Street, arguing many of the proposed house types exceed the buildable width on 50-foot lots. Other commenters asked whether the city would recoup its investment in the property and whether subsurface liabilities would be the responsibility of the developer or the city.

Staff reported the principal changes between preliminary and final plats: the official subdivision name is Forest Landing; private drives are shown as Forest Landing East and West; the central ingress/egress easement was widened from 30 feet to 40 feet; and two 15-foot public utility and drainage easements were added along Broadway and Jefferson. Planning staff recommended approval, noting the final plat meets state-law and local-ordinance requirements.

Commissioner Lesley Heath moved to approve the final plat, reciting findings tied to the request-for-proposals, city ownership, statutory bases (including KRS 100.361 and Chapter 126 §1091A), and the city comprehensive plan’s housing goals; the motion was seconded. During the roll call, Commissioner Heath voted No; Commissioners Rhodess, Benberry, Chapman, Griffin and Chairman Wade voted Yes. The motion passed 5–1.

The Planning Commission record and the comments made at the hearing will be forwarded to the Paducah Board of Commissioners. Staff and the director said a development agreement between the city and the developer will be negotiated before a final sale and that the City Commission will consider the matter at an upcoming meeting (staff cited possible April 10 or April 24 dates).