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Developer proposes 50-unit affordable senior apartments for 700 block of West Spring Street
Summary
Spire Development proposed a 50‑unit, age‑restricted (55+) affordable housing project for the 700 block of West Spring Street; the council held a public hearing and later passed an ordinance to rezone the parcels to class 3 residential on first reading.
Spire Development presented plans for a three‑story, elevator‑served, age‑restricted housing project for the entire 700 block of West Spring Street, proposing about 50 affordable units targeted to households at roughly 60–80% of county median income.
"What we are proposing is an age‑restricted, meaning ages 55 and up affordable housing development," said Sean McMickle, vice president of development for Spire Development. He told council the project includes on‑site supportive services, a fitness center and preservation of an existing community garden run by Mercy.
Council members asked detailed questions about affordability commitments, building layout and long‑term ownership. McMickle said a restrictive covenant will keep the property affordable for 45 years and that Spire intends to remain the long‑term owner and to contract with third‑party property managers. On the question of elevators, McMickle said the planned 50‑unit building will have one elevator and multiple stairwells, and the developer will work with fire professionals and place residents with significant mobility needs on first‑floor units where appropriate.
Members of the public raised safety and accessibility concerns for residents using power wheelchairs, especially during emergencies. Retired Navy veteran Timothy Salem urged the developer to ensure safe egress for non‑ambulatory residents; McMickle said building code requirements, stairwells and first‑floor placement for some residents will be part of the plan.
After the hearing and subsequent consideration, council passed Ordinance 52‑26, amending the zoning map to class 3 residential for the affected parcels; the ordinance passed on its first reading by an 8‑0 vote.
