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Council approves Hampton University use-permit amendment to add kitchen and event flexibility at Harbor Center
Summary
Council amended conditions for Hampton University’s use permit at the Harbor Center to allow a full commercial kitchen and more flexible floor‑plan use on the 14th floor for culinary programming and events; staff retained noise and operational conditions, and the council approved the amendment.
Staff explained that Hampton University’s previously approved use permit for the Harbor Center (2 Eaton Street) included specific floor‑plan references; the university has since received a grant that allows it to install a full commercial kitchen on the 14th floor and expand culinary programming. Staff recommended striking a floor‑plan requirement to give the university flexibility while preserving conditions on noise and hours.
An architectural representative said the space’s capacity is around 400. Nicole Wells of Livest Group Architects told council the railing and rooftop elements would be phased to code and that the kitchen relocation was designed to preserve water views. Council voted to approve the amendment with 13 conditions.
Why it matters: The amendment allows the university to expand educational culinary programming and host events, while staff kept noise and use conditions intended to protect nearby residents and preserve waterfront views.
What’s next: The university will proceed under the amended conditions and obtain any required permits for the kitchen and event uses.
