Owner seeks minor plan amendment at 221 North Prince Street to add apartments above street‑level commercial

Paul Miller, who identified himself as the property owner, asked the Lancaster City Planning Commission on July 1 to amend a minor plan for 221 North Prince Street so the first floor remain commercial while upper floors shift from a prior rooming‑house arrangement to studio and one‑bedroom apartments.

"I'm seeking approval to redevelop the 221 North Prince Street and actually have commercial on the first floor level and residential on the levels above it," Paul Miller told the commission. He said the change reflects market conditions and the desire to provide more residential housing in the area.

Commissioners clarified that the amendment does not alter total commercial square footage along the street frontage but focuses on changing the upper‑floor residential use. Commissioners also questioned a design change that moves eight bicycle spaces from interior secure storage to exterior racks. Miller and the design team said residents preferred exterior bicycle accommodation and that interior space was difficult to configure; one commissioner urged maintaining interior bicycle storage because bikes are expensive and exterior racks may provide less security.

The commission opened the item for public comment. A resident who identified herself as Natalia supported the project and said the city needs more residential housing. The commission noted that, as a recorded minor plan, the commission's role is advisory and staff will consider public and commissioner comments prior to granting unconditional approval.

Staff will incorporate comments about bicycle parking and other details into the review process before staff finalizes its recommendation.