Neighborhood opposition sends 100 NW 22nd multi‑unit proposal back for redesign; commissioners call for smaller porches and aligned setbacks

A prominent multi‑unit redevelopment proposal for 100 Northwest 22nd Street prompted extended public testimony and significant design critique before the commission continued the application. Burnernheim Architecture presented plans that include townhomes, duplexes, a single‑family unit and two‑story garages; staff raised technical issues about use of an adjacent alley, whether retaining walls and fences would conflict with rights‑of‑way, and how a proposed lot split could affect internal setbacks.

Neighbors including long‑time residents Sherry Peton and Randy Ice urged the commission to hold to historic setback patterns and to avoid fencing and massing that would overwhelm small historic houses. Peton described the neighborhood’s history and warned against allowing large new structures to “turn lots into something they’re not,” while Ice recounted prior demolition and the neighborhood’s efforts to preserve remaining historic buildings. Commissioners and applicants discussed alignment of front facades along 22nd Street, porch depth and usability, roof pitches and window rhythms; staff emphasized the need for consistent site plans and accurate drawings before the commission could consider final approval.

Outcome: Given the scale and number of unresolved technical and design issues, the commission continued HPCA26-0000008 to the May 6 meeting and encouraged the applicant to coordinate further with staff and neighborhood representatives on setbacks, porch dimensions, and fence/retaining wall placement prior to returning.