Residents concerned over Ghent projects

Dozens of residents turned out to two meetings in March on projects planned for Ghent Ave.

Three, three storey walkups:

A property owner on Ghent, close to Prospect, has assembled three properties and developed some draft ideas for the site, including townhomes or three, three storey buidlings. Either concept would require zoning changes. Nothing has been oifficially submitted to the city, and instead the builder presented the ideas to the community. At the meeting residents expressed concerns about traffic, drainage, and general increased density, but said they would be more supportive of a townhome type of concept on a larger parcel of assembled land. The property owner is considering that feedback, and I will continue to keep you posted.

Trigianni retirement home:

The proposed 4-storey senior’s home meets zoning requirements but requires variances for a sideyard setback on the West, a front yard setback to accommodate a covered driveway, and a parking variance. A parking study has determined that the spaces being planned will accommodate staff and visitors, and will be sufficient for residents, not all of whom will own cars.

Residents expressed concerns about the height of the building (it’s between multi-storey buildings to the West and single family homes to the East) increased traffic and noise, and mostly about overflow parking onto nearby streets. Staff and the builder will continue to work with residents to mitigate these concerns.

My Take: My goal is to ensure residents concerns are taken into consideration during the planning stages for these projects. I will continue to keep you updated.

Category: Development