Zoning, Neighborhoods & Development Committee - Regular Meeting

as chair today um i will start with um the roll call um commissioner renell washington could you let us know you're present online reno is it president um commissioner tariq moody president commissioner jesus gonzalez president perfect um and then my understanding is that willie smith is not with us correct Okay, um, and then excused our commissioner, Stephanie Bloomingdale and commissioner Katrina. So, we welcome you all today. Um, and with that, I'm going to pass it over to, um. Staff tanya who will, um, talk us through the virtual meeting reminders.

All right today's city plan commission meeting will be carried out and hybrid format, which means we are accepting public testimony, both in person at city hall and online and go to webinar. If you are joining via go to webinar, please keep yourself on mute until you are called. If you would like to provide testimony during any of the public hearings, please click the raise hand function. You can see that on the screen right now. During your agenda item of interest, click the raised hand function and our staff assistant Chris Lee will call on you during the public testimony portion of the item. If anyone is watching on channel 25, and would like to participate in the hearing, you will need to log in to go to webinar platform to do so. You can do this by going to city.milwaukee.gov slash CPC. Again, that's city.milwaukee.gov slash CPC. From the webpage, you can log in to GoToWebinar and provide testimony during any of the public comment items. Whether you are providing testimony in person today or remotely, please state your name, address, and affiliation with the item for your testimony. Thank you for your participation.

And I want to make note that... Commissioner Willie Smith has joined us virtually. Thank you, Willie. Good to have you. And then we're going to move. Has everybody had a chance to review and approve and hopefully approve the meeting minutes from May 18th of 2026?

Yes. And Commissioner Moody moves to approve the meeting minutes from May 18th, 2026.

Commissioner Gonzales here, I will second that motion.

Is there any discussion? Hearing none, all those in favor, please say aye. Aye.

Aye.

Motion carries. Thank you. Moving to zoning item 260047, resolution relating to a minor modification to the detailed plan development known as Kane Commons Phase 1 to allow exterior alterations to the existing residential structure at 1162 through 64 East Kane Place, located on the north side of East Kane Place, east of Humboldt Avenue in the 3rd Aldermatic District.

Kristen Connelly, DCD Planning. The detailed plan development for Kane Commons was established back in 2005 and entails a series of residential structures, including single family and duplexes along Kane Place and courtyard buildings to the north. We last saw this detailed plan development before us about 10 years ago in 2016 for the approval of a new single family infill house along Kane Place, which has since been constructed. This minor modification file relates to an existing duplex along East King place and the owners are looking are working with the architect who's here as well along with the owner to make alterations to the exterior of the structure. And since this is a custom zoning approvals necessary for those exterior alterations. As I said, the applicants are here to go over the changes in more detail and answer questions. But in summary, the entire duplex structure will receive new vertical board and batten siding. There'll be alterations to the windows with some being added or enlarged and others being removed for code purposes. There'll be enlarged exterior doors on the north and south sides to meet code as well. And then there'll be a new first floor porch and second floor deck on the north side of the structure. And as part of this minor modification file as well, future modest exterior changes, we're recommending that they're able to be reviewed at the staff level just to not put them through a three and a half month process for minor alterations just to retain the existing structures. This sites within the northeast side plan boundary and more specifically the lower east side sub area. The plan envisions resident investment and neighborhood enhancement by a context sensitive development that addresses current issues while preserving community care. Allowing exterior improvements here for residential structures furthers these objectives, and the proposed alterations are consistent with the plan. This site's within the Third Aldermanic District, and Alderman Brower has expressed his support for the file, and staff does recommend approval. And we've got Russ and Patrick here to answer any questions, and I know they have some slides as well.

You can kind of... She won't steal their thunder then.

So this is the last piece of King Commons, and... Patrick and Brett recently purchased it and are converting it now to livable duplex. It's been sort of not well kept, especially on the interior. With that, they want to bring it into sort of a the exterior we're trying to make it blend with the neighborhood part of the original um development was that we were then going by the old time east village historic district which is now sort of defunct but we're still working within that um so we want to be historic we don't want to stand out like a sore thumb but we're trying to give it a presence that's its own on the block um and so we're doing that with the vertical warden batten which originally wasn't in our list of materials that we'd be using Um, and then in terms of the color, we haven't quite chosen it yet. Um, because again, it's that it's that balance we get between, um. 2, 2, 2 different and just too much of the same. So we're working on that. That's 1 big decision that's left out. Um, in terms of exterior medications on the front. The big considerations was we changed the sizing of the windows a little bit, just to make them a little bit bigger. And that's basically it. The front door does not meet code. And because we're doing such extensive construction on this, we really want to bring that up to a three foot wide door. Um, so we'll be bringing in new trim, um, and. Basically, that that's it for the front on the East side, because of current code requirements, we're really not allowed to have any unprotected. Openings on that side, because it's so close to the building next door. Um, and so that we're eliminating windows and set, putting in glass block and a couple of new spots. Um, and again, that is just driven purely by code. Um, on the north side, uh, because everyone else in the development has outdoor space on the courtyard. We felt it very important that we add that into this. So, each, each duplex has that access. Um, truthfully that courtyard has become the liveliest part of development. Um, and it's really been fantastic. Um. Everyone loves that the neighbors, you know, all the group just uses it a lot. Um, so we felt that was important. And then finally, on the West side, um, the room configuration is changing. Um, and so what we're doing is changing the window locations and types to match. Um, what we're doing in there, so, for instance, you look on the, you look on the bottom right. Elevation, you see smaller windows, those are going above a bed. So that's why they're smaller and the other ones, the middle ones are, that's the bathroom. And then the 2 other, or no, that's the kitchen and the 2 other ones are the living rooms. Okay. So the ones in the living room are the same size as the front ones. So that works back and forth, but the other windows are shaped basically what we need.

Just backing up is there anything else you want to know? Okay. Just backing up sort of the ownership strategy of this whole development. Is it kind of a co-op? It's a condo. It's a condo. Okay. So what was your sort of public engagement strategy among the condo association to come to this design?

It really works with it because it's such a close-knit group. There really isn't like a design for you. Is there a center of your work?

No, I mean, we just talk. Okay. You sit in the courtyard.

And truly, this is the, I mean, I think there was talk when the Hansons built the last unit in there. But again, because it's such a tight-knit group, there really isn't formal structure for that.

I just wanted, you know, do we have notification of the other owners or?

This is a minor modification, so this is a regular agenda item. Okay. And then anything that was in there, like, bylaws or what have you, of course, they'd be obligated to follow.

Okay. Um, yeah, it was just the 1st board and baton. You know, I don't know how color choice will go forward, you know, with some of the, um. With the neighbors and the other condo.

Yeah, I don't think I don't think it'll be a problem because, you know, after the very sensitive what was in there. Sure. Um, it's it's their development. They've invested a lot in there. So they're going to make sure it's right for the. The development.

Okay.

And I think there, where we have such that we have all. Natural colors, except for the front houses, which are grays and tans and blues. Um, so we may keep up with that sort of having a color up there.

Okay.

But again, we look at the street. The street is not 1 for. a real intense sure you know we don't want a a barn red color or anything like that um but because it's such a unique position where you just want to get it right it's just one of those things where it's going to be tons of samples and pasting them up and putting them up on the walls what looks right so and that process we really do need we're ordering the the siding as primed only and so that way we can decide when it's up what color works best right

Everything else, I think, makes perfect sense. Are there any other questions from?

Just real quick, I just want to confirm. On the west elevation, you're removing that little deck going forward?

Yes, yes. Okay.

Okay.

And plus two main trucks hit it. Okay.

Any other questions from commissioners? Hearing none, is there a motion on this issue?

Commissioner Moody moves to approve file number 260047.

Second, Commissioner Smith.

choices aligned with staff correct um is that is there any other is there any requirement you you had mentioned things that you wanted to have um

We don't have color selection from what I can tell in the detail plan development.

Okay. But you had mentioned wanting to have any small modifications.

Okay.

So that that that's the clarification. That any, any small changes would be approved by staff. Instead of coming through this 3 and a half month process. If that's a friendly amendment. Okay. Any other discussion on this item? Hearing none, I will. Do a roll call vote commissioner Washington.

All right.

Commissioner Moody.

All right.

Commissioner Gonzalez.

Hi.

Commissioner Smith. All right, perfect. The motion carries. Thank you very much. So. I know, um, in our hearing 3 and 4 together. Yes, combining items number. 2, 5, 2, 1, 9, 0 and 2, 6, 0, 0, 8, 5. And I'll turn that over to on your correct. Sounds good.

Yes. So, 252190 is an ordinance relating to the change and zoning from general planned plan development to a new detailed plan development to allow a multifamily residential development on the property located at 234 South water street on the East side of South water street, South of East Pittsburgh Avenue. And the 12 all dramatic district, and then item number 4, 2, 6, 0, 0, 8, 5 is a resolution approving plans for a river walk and multifamily residential development known as the ever at 234 South water street relative to the river walk site plan review overlay zone, or sprazz established by section 295 dash 91.0021 of the former walking code. located on the west side of the Milwaukee River, east of South Water Street and south of East Pittsburgh Avenue and the 12th Aldermanic District. This site has been zoned Detailed Plan Development, or DPD, since around 1999, and several development proposals have been approved in the past, including the most recent 2019 DPD known as Admiral's Wharf, though none have been constructed. The Admiral's Wharf development entailed an 11 story residential building with 3,400 square feet of commercial space and an associated river walk. That DPD has since expired and the site is currently zoned general plan development pursuant to the provisions of the zoning code. The site continues to be used as parking for boat trailers and minimal daily parking currently. There's a new proposal for the site and two files are before us today, as I shared earlier, one for the detailed plan development and the second for the Riverwalk. The applicant team is here to go through their presentation of the proposal for the site, but briefly, the proposal entails a 12-story residential building with 200 residential units, the majority of which are studios and one bedrooms. There will be 198 internal vehicle parking spaces and 50 bike parking spaces for the residents, in addition to short-term bike parking racks placed near the main building entrance at the corner of Water and Pittsburgh. Similar to the prior proposal vehicle access will be from East Oregon street to the South, which will be constructed as part of the development and building materials consists of a precast architectural concrete base and brick with accent metal and fiber cement paneling. All units will have a private outdoor balcony or Juliet balcony, and several amenities will be provided for the residents, including an outdoor amenity deck on the fifth floor and a rooftop outdoor space. The new river walk segment will be constructed along the river frontage and include generous outdoor gathering areas on the north and south ends connected by a ramped walkway to make up the fairly significant grade differential of the site. The Riverwalk will connect under the Pittsburgh Avenue Bridge to the north, and pedestrian connections will be provided on both the north and south ends. In review of the city's comprehensive plan, The site is within the Harbor District Water and Land Use Plan area, and more specifically within the Harborview Subdistrict. And overall, the vision for this area is to continue its transition to a mixed-use live-work and play neighborhood with a compact urban form that is walkable and inviting. Waterfront access is prioritized to provide residents and visitors an opportunity to enjoy the Milwaukee Riverwalk system. And the plan encourages high density, multi-story buildings that take advantage of the water views. The site is also included in the Walker's Point equitable growth through transit oriented development plan. And this plan identifies this as a primary development site to accommodate high density development supports transit oriented development near the South first street corridor. A high rise multifamily residential building at this location that provides a Riverwalk connection is highly consistent with the land use recommendations of the plan. Both plans have additional design recommendations that are also relevant to this proposed detailed plan development, including having minimal setbacks for new buildings and that new buildings are designed to complement the new public space network being created in the district to provide improved waterfront access and bicycle and pedestrian connections. The transit oriented development plan also identifies the stretch of South Pittsburgh Avenue, where this development is proposed as a key connector between the 3rd ward walkers point and the street yards for pedestrian cyclists and transit writers buildings at keys and intersections on these connector streets should be designed to maximize the pedestrian experience. Staff have reviewed the development plans for the site and feel that the proposed multifamily residential development, inclusive of the new riverwalk segment and pedestrian connections is consistent with the recommendations of the comprehensive plan. And that it provides a highly a high density. Well, design building that is pedestrian friendly and activates the river frontage. The proposed building consists of high quality building materials and is well articulated. And the Riverwalk provides multiple pedestrian connections and generous outdoor public gathering spaces. The applicant team has worked collaboratively with staff through our design review process, and we feel that the exhibits before you today are largely complete. There are some minor details that DCD planning staff would like to continue working through with the applicant at a staff level and be reflected in the final exhibits for both the detailed plan development and the Riverwalk overlay files. So we recommend approval of file numbers 252190 and 260085 with the following conditions. One, that the applicant provides updated plans that reflect revised locations of the short-term bike parking in coordination with the Department of Public Works if locations are within the right-of-way and the revised condition of the Riverwalk entrance at East Pittsburgh Avenue and the adjacent resident entrance stair and a loading zone along South Water Street at Pittsburgh Avenue. Secondly, that the applicant provides an updated landscape plan that includes additional native plantings within the Riverwalk site plan review overlay zone that provide year-round interest. Third, that the applicant continues to work with DCD staff on final selection of the tinted and spandrel glazing on the ground floor and plinth levels of the building. for that the applicant provides updated elevations that reflect the glazing types at all areas of the building and finally that the applicant adds a building materials page to the detailed plan development and riverwalk drawings exhibit and with that i will turn things over to the applicant team to share a little bit more thank you

Uh, you, you covered most of it, so it's my, my job up here should be pretty short.

Um, could you introduce?

Oh, yes. Sorry, uh, Brian Grebel, uh, architects with construction services. Thank you. So, as she mentioned, in terms of the building materials and design, when we looked at this, it was kind of creating the building into to create some sort of hierarchy and have things aligned throughout, you know, from the base up through the middle into the top. So, with that base, you know, we have an architectural precast majority masonry and kind of the middle units there of 4 through 4 through 11 and then an upper kind of penthouse 12th floor level as more of a metal panel there. but still keeping the alignment with kind of the hierarchy of the building there. So we did go through and kind of look at some of the existing images of the site. So these all kind of just glance through. Um, as you had mentioned, it's a 12 story, 200, 200 unit building, approximately 284,000 square feet. Around the street level, you know, street activation was a large topic conversation with multiple iterations on this site. Um, so we did our best to keep that that water Pittsburgh and river walk corner as activated as possible. Um, you know, as was mentioned there, there are some difficulties with grade in there between the lower area on Oregon street up to water in Pittsburgh. Um, we're getting that activation does become challenging, but we feel like we did our best to keep that area activated there.

Is that really the 2nd floor plan?

It's a, it's a 2nd floor plan and at that water street, Pittsburgh corner, you're about 6 feet up off the 1st floor and about 4 feet down from the 2nd. So it's a series of. Um, there's some ramping on the exterior along with some stairs with some additional stairs and ramping on the interior. The goal there was to break it up, but then still provide kind of that storefront glazing at the street level to keep the visual into the building for the pedestrian on the sidewalk. Um, in regards to the river walk, uh, as was mentioned, you know, it's approximately 300 feet of additional frontage there, plus an extra almost 60 at the new, uh, Oregon street. Um, and as was mentioned. Uh, there will be, you know, more or less 3 new connection points 1 underneath the Pittsburgh Avenue bridge. Um, up at the Pittsburgh level, and then also down at the new Oregon street, which will connect to Oregon street, the sidewalk there, and then any, you know, future developments that may happen to the South would provide an easy way to to connect there. Um, just a general site plan, um, you can kind of see the Oregon street to the, what is now planning, but but on the South end with the overall development building in gray. And so 1st floor is mainly parking with some building mechanicals. Uh, 2nd floor, uh, again, that you can kind of see that that left portion over there is kind of where we're focusing in on that that corner activation, um, the building program, leasing offices. Uh, coworking space lounge fitness center in that area. Floors 3 and 4, uh, are the remainder of the parking with just a few few units to the plan West in this just to clarify as you're going through these, the, the auto in and out is if you could. Can't point, but it's on the upper right in this 1 off of Oregon street there that extension kind of dog legs and yes to your building.

Okay.

Yeah, and there is, I didn't mention the, there is loading zone down there on Oregon street to keep to keep some of the traffic off of water street there. And access will still be maintained to the existing drive is that.

Street.

Uh, that's just a utility connection showing the extensive. I believe I believe water comes from.

Okay. Sorry.

So, yeah, floor 3 and 4 are the remainder of the parking, which is some some units to kind of the plan West here. And then floor five, as mentioned, it's the start of the bulk unit floors with outdoor amenity deck with kind of a seating area and then a pool. Six through 11 are basically stacked unit plans of the bulk of the unit floors. And then 12 has some, a little bit different break, a three bedroom on that, what is southeast corner. And then on the northeast corner is an outdoor lounge for residents to take advantage of there. Just a brief overview of the Riverwalk. As I mentioned, there are some grading challenges on the site. So on either ends, the north and south end are some larger gathering spaces for residents and the public. It's a mixture of seating and planters. And then there's a series of ADA ramping that goes down towards Oregon Street. And then on the lower plan there, there's a connection back towards the north that goes under Pittsburgh. So, building elevations, that's water street. This is the, the Riverside. The left is the Pittsburgh elevation and then the right is off of Oregon street. So, and then we just have a few renderings here of the different spaces. You had seen this 1 originally. Here's more of a street level at the corner of Water and Pittsburgh. A little bit different angle from that same Water Street corner. This would be down towards the south end of Oregon Street at the kind of the entry to the Riverwalk there. Taking some of the building elements, canopies, and kind of extending those and creating those, in this case, a semi-covered gathering space seating area. And more more or less an overall riverwalk view. Little bird's eye view of the 5th floor amenity deck that seating area to the left along with a pool on the right.

What was the to the left? I'm sorry.

It's a seating area turf turf and pavers a few fire pits.

Not dog exercise.

It is not dog exercise. A similar water street view, just, um, more of a dusk or dawn type. With building lighting, and this would be kind of that upper river walk towards the Pittsburgh elevation up there. Just looking down. So.

And you might have to go back a couple of slides, but could you describe your move in move out scenario?

Yep. Yeah. I'll jump back to. So the loading zone is down off Oregon street, um, and the path would be if you have a box truck, you know, you're not gonna make the overhead door clearance. Uh. The movement would go from Oregon street through the parking level along that same level to the elevator lobby.

Okay.

Um.

Could you go back to that that lower level plan? Yes. Just kind of can't point I got to go back to it too. 12.

Are those present? Do you want me to point?

Sure. That would be helpful. Because I always struggle with kind of, you know.

So this curve cut, give it a couple lock strokes there. So the idea would be you either hammerhead your truck and pull it around here, or you just And through this door to the elevator, I'm going to give a smaller vehicle to make clearance just to park over by the elevator, but it's coming in a very large box. Yeah, yeah.

Yeah, we, we ran, it was a 30 or 30 foot box truck. And it's kind of, we, we did an exhibit presented.

Okay, and if it was a full moving van, like, um, like, um. Mr. Moody, it would have to be on the on Water Street and still make that same.

You could, you could back it in off water filling the length is there the. The turnaround isn't there. She'd have to back it in off of water. Yep. Yep. But yeah, there's still enough length.

Brother drove a moving van and. Full size truck in college and it's amazing what those trucks can do. Um. So, but once you get into the building, I'm, I'm just struggling a little bit and this is totally on you guys and just a suggestion, but, you know, like, coming through that double small, double door and into the. You feel like that's adequate to come into that elevator core and. And up for moving.

Yeah. Yeah, we have a six-foot double door there. We could even look at making it more of an eight-foot clear door down there.

It's just a suggestion. I'm more concerned with what's happening on the outside and the trucks, but I just wanted to bring that one up.

The site's with its loss of about a Move in and move up. You don't have to do that once. Everything else has to work well for the rest of the time.

Hopefully they're long-term tenants. Yeah. So some questions about exterior materiality. In the renderings, it looked dark compared to some of its buddies across the river and around it, other than Next Act.

In real life, this is very similar to the dark version of the brick we used on Avani. We just developed that site. So it came through on the renderings a whole heck of a lot darker than it does. And even on this board, it's not as, it still looks dark on the board. And I guess what I would challenge anyone who's concerned about it to do is just drive past Vani. In real life, it doesn't do this. It matches a lot better with our neighbors to the north than what it seems like in the elevation.

Okay. Yeah, it just seems a little dark.

I'll, I'll give you that here in real life. We know it's not.

Okay.

Madam chair. Yes, this is commissioner Washington. I do have a couple of questions similar to what you asked about the ingress egress, uh, loading zone area. Uh, good afternoon to the development team is commissioner Washington. Um. Looking at the current picture. Um, I see that the 2 cars with the blur on Pittsburgh. And I'm looking at a picture on on maps. The front edge of the building along water is all going to be loading zone. From the parking, so I'm sorry from the stop sign. At the intersection of Pittsburgh and water to what will be called new Oregon street. Is that all going to be loading zone area? So no street parking in front of the building or is there going to be a scenario where there is. Some visitor visitor parking loading zone there and I know you said that there would be a loading zone in. The new East Oregon street area. I'm just curious to see what the furniture the building looks like, because there's about 7, 8 cars parked there in the picture. I'm looking at. There is a bike lane, so what is the streetscape look like for. Potential visitors or individuals in the neighborhood again next act is across the street. I know other neighboring buildings do kind of park along that corridor. So I'm just curious what that looks like. For a potential people that will be visiting the building or, uh, the neighbors in the neighborhood.

Yes, thank you. Um, along water street, you know, we are not calling for a loading zone there. The intent would be that if. If in the city wishes that's remained like visitor parking or parallel parking and the bike lane that that is the intent. So, the drop or the loading zone would be primarily off Oregon street.

Uh. sorry i think dawn has her hand raised uh madam chair oh dawn from dpw has her hand raised dawn

hi uh don schmidt department of public works um i just want to point out that we did actually request a loading zone at the uh you know wouldn't be the whole block but you do want to allow to have a short loading zone adjacent to the main entrance um for things like uh pickups and drop-offs for deliveries of like things like uber eats rideshare Food deliveries, what have you those folks are not going to park down at Oregon. It worst case scenario, you wind up with a double parking situation, which is what we want to avoid.

Okay, so so then just so we can clarify and matter chair. I do. I think I have 1 more other question. So there would be a loading zone along. Oregon in a short 1 in front of the building. Don is what you're saying.

Ideally, that would be what I would like to see. And just so that everyone is aware, the plans here don't show it, but there is actually a Department of Public Works project where they're adding a bike lane, I think a protected bike lane on Pittsburgh, or excuse me, on Water Street. But that will not preclude having a loading zone adjacent to the entrance to the building.

Okay, and then Madam chair, I do have 1 follow up question if I may. And then Don, you might be able to help too. So so from this Google image where Oregon street is. There's a short, there's a fire hydrant. Which appears to be in front of the salvage yard and then it starts parking again. That area, uh, I guess going South will not be affected by this development at all. Or there, there won't be any. Um, responsibility for the development team to.

Do anything there my understanding is that the, the developer would only have responsibility going from Oregon street north.

Okay.

So, anything in front of the neighboring property would be outside of the limits of their would be out there. It would be outside their scope.

Okay.

And then this is 100% market rate project, correct? Yes. Okay, thank you.

Any other questions from the commissioners. Do you have a couple of myself and, um. You have control over the boat slips as well. As part of your development.

Yes.

Okay. So the whole river walk both slips is all. All you, um, and. I know too much because I'm a voter. Um, but, um. The power line that kind of comes through there. And you're through the site. Um, what is the plan with that?

The overhead utilities would be taken care of and moved underground. I know I know Don is we've we've gone back and forth and that's that's definitely 1 of her concerns as well. Okay.

Good, good. And then, and with your unit mix, you're still not thinking that there needs to be any exterior play, like, or families? What is your unit mix, if you could remind me? Yeah.

Yeah, we're at 57 studios, 99, 1 beds, 43, 2 and 1 and 3. okay.

1, 3 bedroom probably doesn't put us into the.

Need a place for those kids to play like, like, if you were heavily weighted towards 3 bedrooms, but I just wanted to bring it up.

Um, any other questions from commissioners. Oh, the stair. sort of interact ramp interaction with the uh river walk are you currently showing um your fight your best and final answer or is that still something that should be a condition of being worked out with because it was very small in here i couldn't tell whether it has changed since earlier renditions it is not changed in this from the submittal but we've had correspondence with city and we're going to widen that there to alleviate that pinch point where that scare is so right

Madam chair, I think I just have 1 question. The, I'm looking at the rendering. So, it'll connect to the river walk going north. But there's not a South river walk connection. Behind the salvage our area that will extend at some point in the future. No.

It connects to the public sidewalk there at the edge of the building, and it'll wrap around both sides of Oregon street.

That's the 1 rendering that 1. And fellas piece. Yep. Um, that's kind of where you come back for now. Um. There is a proposal for an adjacent development that would that would be part of their development to take care of that 1.

Yep, no, I was just, uh, want to make sure I couldn't quite tell from the image that was on the screen. So I just want to make sure. So, sorry, what we're looking at this, but the Oregon.

South end yeah, you're, you're standing facing looking North from that South correct? Yeah. Got it. Okay.

Oh, so, Brian, we've heard from you. Sorry, don't. Carl. Okay. I've gotten that one, but that's C and the L. But we have some other folks who would like to speak. Stephanie Ludovic. I just want to make sure you still do not want to speak. Okay, perfect. Come on up to the table and introduce yourself for the record.

Hi, I'm Stephanie Ludovic, L-U-D-O-V-I-C and I've lived in the neighborhood for 10 years. So that at 221 East Oregon street. And so I do come with respect for your work and your rendering, but I do have opposition based on the fact that this building is. Twice as big as everything around it and. It's just kind of trumps the rest of the neighborhood in my opinion. It's it actually is a very small space to that little corner there. Um, and I just think for the. Agenda items and priorities that you have for the development of this district. that if you mentioned that waterfront access was such a large point, I feel like this would benefit the people that lived in that 12 story building, but then it'll take it away from all the nearby residences and businesses, including like the architecture firm. The other thing I would point out too, in the first slide that they showed, it did show like all the beautiful trees that are actually there right now. And in my opinion, that is such a, Um, beauty of this little micro neighborhood is that is very urban, but it doesn't seem as urban as other parts like traditional North North water street. So there's all those beautiful existing trees and it does bring in a large amount of birds. Like, we get a ton of little birds on our balcony and it does just make it seem more. Like a neighborhood and then. The other point, since you did bring up so much conversation centered around that Oregon street, the. New North Oregon street that they were talking about Oregon street. Seems that seems problematic because Oregon street. Is not a through street anymore like it and said, Barclay from the West from the area where I live and that architecture firm that's dated. So, regardless residents that are trying to move in, or I was going to have to enter from South water. And pull into that little strip on the new North Oregon that they were proposing. And that is. An area that gets very busy, I can tell you just Monday through Friday people park there for work and also seasonally with festivals and stuff. That's a very busy little street South water. And then, like I said, quiet otherwise, but I see that being an issue. But I think really that. I guess I would just question, like, why does it need to be 12 stories? So I did, like I said, the 1st, 3rd, 10 years. 10 years, and there has been development, um, the domus building went in across since I lived there, but it actually is a nice addition because it, it matches the marine terminal loss and. you know it looks like it fits in the vibe of the neighborhood us whoever developed that little trestle park next to it that's really amazing and just that little bit of green space goes a long way so i think um you know i love the part about the river walk being extended but if it's only extending really the length of the building it sounds like and then turning around on that little north oregon that's really just a pretty small section So those, I think, are my main points. Thank you. Sure. Any questions for Stephanie?

All right. We may stay here. We'll probably recall you up. Thank you. David Jorgensen? You do not wish to speak. Never mind. I'm all for it. David Berry? um is in favor of the item and does not wish to speak just confirming that that's still the case um kyle i'm sorry kyle i cannot sayman okay um if questions okay um andrew oats is unsure about the item and would like to speak

I live down the street, um, I really was just curious about how the new slip situation will look following the development. Um, I think the building is beautiful. It's nice to see some, some new development on that side of the river. And I looked down the street. I think it would be good to. Continue to get more foot traffic for the local businesses. Um, but I'm just curious if that, because that's currently sort of a public boat slip. Um, I'm also a voter. I keep a boat there. I'm curious if that'll be. Specific to the residents of the building. I also think it's about the same number of boats slips that are currently there, but I was curious if the. Dimensions or anything or I'll ask. Okay, that's all I had.

Thank you. Um, and then Anna. As opposed to the item and would like to speak. Introduce yourself for the record.

My name is Hannah. I live, um. Actually, really near Stephanie, I'm kind of in the same little complex that we all share sort of a courtyard and excuse me, a courtyard and parking lot. There's 4 different apartment complexes there that kind of make up 1 little compound that are right across the street from this proposed development. And I agree with her pretty much on everything. I love the development. That was domus across the river. I've lived there for about 6 years. So I wasn't there when that 1 was built, but I think it fits in. nicely with the landscape, nicely with the neighborhood. I actually got married at Trestle Park last year. I think that was a really, really wonderful natural little addition to the neighborhood. I agree with her on just about everything there. I think that a 12-story building is egregious. Nothing around there is 12 stories. Actually, the closest one is the Pointe Condo Complex up on Sebo Street. That's the only 12-story building in the vicinity. Um, the rest of the surrounding parcels are all zoned. I am. Um, which caps at 45 feet by right? Um, there is 1 zone PD. I believe that is, or maybe that is the point, but the rest are zone. I am. Um, that includes the water street losses, actually his own P, and that's at 6 stories. Um, the waterfront condos are his own PD. I am marine terminal officer. I am. My ad is, I am bridge view. So the water works as I am and the adjacent parcels on South water and Oregon are all I am. So, the neighborhood is low. Putting a 12 story building in between our buildings. and the river and the sunrise takes away at least two and a half hours of sunlight from our buildings, from our balconies, from our plants, from all of us every single day. And I have the, I had to do a bunch of math on that, but I have calculations if you guys want to see them. And now I have to call my high school math teacher and tell him he was right. I had to use it. And that's just, you know, that's, I don't think it's something that's thought a lot about when developments like this go in, but that's a big mental health issue. That's a quality of life issue for hundreds of other people in this neighborhood who've lived there for a long time. That's an issue for me. I like my sunshine, especially when we don't have it for six months a year. We have it for four hours a day. I don't want two and a half hours of it gone. And I love this neighborhood. I want to stay there. So that's an issue for me. It doesn't fit in with the landscape in a predominantly item zone neighborhood. It's been the only one of its kind. Speaking of the density, I know it was mentioned before, the floor area ratio analysis versus other buildings around here, even 333 North Water Street, and that is the gross building floor area divided by the total lot area. is at the proposed effort is about 10.3. In comparison to like 333rd North Water, that's 8.5. So this building isn't just taller than like the prior proposal of Admiral's Wharf. It represents a 50% increase in units and a meaningful increase in gross floor area. It's about three times the FAR, the floor area ratio, OF A BUY RIGHT I AM BUILDING THAT WOULD OTHERWISE FIT IN WITH THE NEIGHBORHOOD ON A SIZE LESS THAN ONE ACRE WITH A BUILDABLE SPACE OF ABOUT HALF AN ACRE. WHICH IS, YOU KNOW, THE COMPACT URBAN FORM THAT YOU GUYS WERE DISCUSSING EARLIER, KIND OF THE PLAN FOR THE HARBOR DISTRICT DEVELOPMENT. I UNDERSTAND THAT. ALL FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE AREA. I THINK IT'S GREAT. BUT IT DOESN'T MEAN UNBOUNDED DENSITY ON TINY PLOTS. I do think that the pattern of failed proposals that have previously been on the site warrants a heightened scrutiny of a proposal of this density. This is the fifth developer to publicly pursue the site since 2009. And a common thread across all of the prior failures is the constraints of this site. You've heard a little about it. There's a giant slope down toward the river. It's a small footprint, the DNR and other requirements, the floodplain exposure, DNR permit exposure, the grade differential, sewer capacity limitations. Each prior developer ultimately concluded that the economics of the site at a responsible scale do not work. This proposal looks to solve that problem, not by redesigning the project, but by adding 67 more units. Um, but then the prior proposal, well, eliminating the commercial space. Um, I think that we should be skeptical that the same constraints that defeated for prior proposals are just. Suddenly resolved, um. He ran our proposal a couple of years ago, it was defeated by a. DNR reclassification of the high water level mark. That moved it about 12 feet back from the riverfront. And this proposal has the building or the setback There we go. That's where I was looking for the setback, 11 feet from it. It does indicate that the all building is within the ordinary high water mark, but I don't know that that's been reassessed since last year's floods. I don't know that anything's changed. I mean, that's just something that I don't know and I would certainly want looked into. Have any of the DNR, OWHM permits been applied for?

I can ask.

Um, because I know those have derailed some of the prior projects, um. The flood play overlay zone permit has that been secured. Similarly, okay. Um. So, uh, there's been a lot of talk to you about the traffic safety and the. Loading zones and everything and that is it gets insane down there during summerfest and I don't know if any of you got caught in the great jelly roll traffic jam several years ago. That was really bad. And with that drawbridge being there, there is a signal on 1 side, not on the other. There is 2 blocks down. I mean, it just gets. Really kind of gnarly sometimes, um. I haven't seen a traffic impact analysis. Anything like that there's. I think it would be irresponsible to just green light the entire proposal without something like that. Um. Especially with that intersection coming off of Pittsburgh on to South water. Um, I, I walk every single day. My office is right up here. My house is right down there. It's. This is my, um, I. Almost been hit several times at that intersection just walking. I've seen several very near miss our accidents. It, I think it warrants a traffic analysis if we're going to add, you know. 200 cars at least twice a day. That's that's a lot of traffic. Um. And it would be very difficult to install a signal there. It'd be almost impossible to have one on either side of the bridge. So some remediation needs to be done there, or at least thought about. Quantified vehicle load on that bridge too should probably be looked at. I know the 1. On South 1st, or water was just redone, but I don't think this 1 has been. Um, and those are some of my concerns. I know that, um. I think overall, just the, this building, I think is just out of touch with the character of the existing neighborhood. Um. And as far as I understand the boat rental slips, the boat slips are for the tenants. I think what I read in there, I don't know many renters who have boats. I certainly don't. So I think it's just a little bit out of touch. There are certainly concerns that I have. And thank you for listening.

Absolutely. Thank you for your testimony. Is there anybody online that wishes to speak?

At this time, if you are... In attendance online, and if you wish to offer testimony, please place the raise hand function. And at this time, nobody is raising their hand.

Thank you. So a little bit of question. I am sort of destinations around this site. You know, in comparison, and, um, what. Came forward to be in support of the 12 story building.

Yeah, so, um, I am would allow up to 75 feet. Um, actually, so there is that, um, consideration, but certainly, um, we have reviewed this in the past at various heights and the most recent proposal in 2019. was for 10 stories, which this is similar to. And so while we, of course, are reviewing overall character, and that begins during comprehensive planning, but also certainly in context of the neighborhood, This is being considered as part of the larger development and context. There are some unique challenges with the site as you heard with the grade and making development feasible on the site and reviewing this very comprehensively. We believe that what they are proposing does fit within the site and. You know, that's that is where where we are today. Um, and certainly there are some uniqueness with the parking plants, um, and other. Things that obviously kind of require a little more height given that, but in order to to park the development, we felt that that was.

That was appropriate and just the floor area density and I would also be concerned about the, the parking. Um, I think that came up in our internal review, but, um. the parking per unit and...

The parking per unit is what we're seeing consistently for developments across the city, many of which have been developed. And so we have been doing a survey of that as of late and what they're proposing is consistent with what we're seeing in our market.

And then in terms of some of these other potential overlays and studies, do you happen to know if there was Dawn loves when I ask this question. A traffic impact analysis, if there was any interaction with DNR regarding the floodplain overlay.

Yeah, I'll let Dawn and the development team speak to those Upcoming reviews and what discussions have taken place so far, um, a traffic analysis has not been requested. We don't typically request that for development of the scale. Um, but I. Don can speak to that more knowledgeably than I can.

Right. This is not, from DPW's perspective, this particular development does not have enough traffic or would not produce enough traffic to warrant a traffic impact analysis. It is not that much traffic. It may feel like a lot of traffic to folks in the area. However, the fact of the matter is that there is, based on what I'm looking at with the traffic counts from WisDOT, there's not actually a lot of traffic on a daily basis on South Water or on West Pittsburgh compared to other streets in the city. Um, and there will be, you know, if this helps for, for residents, uh, to be aware, you know, folks that spoke, um, there are going to be projects coming up that are spearheaded by our multimodal group that will institute traffic calming along Pittsburgh and along South water street. Um, I think I mentioned earlier the, uh, what is it? The protected, uh, two way bike lane that's going in on South water street. Um, However, that bike lane, that facility will not preclude the ability to put in a loading zone. The parking related to festivals is the reason why I am bringing up the idea of putting a loading zone next to the main building entrance so that we don't wind up with a situation where folks are double parking or potentially, you know, we're mitigating that. I don't know what to add.

Yeah, I just have some follow-up, Dawn, with... you know, being a next actor and a voter and trying to cross Pittsburgh, it is, it can get dicey along there. That intersection is, you know, so I'm glad to hear that there is some traffic calming coming. Yes. Yes.

I mean, I don't remember who said it. I mean, they are, whoever did say it, I mean, there is, it is correct. We would not be able to put a traffic signal there. It's just that would not work. However, the traffic calming, I mean, it certainly will cut down the crossing distance of the roadway for a pedestrian, which should help matters. I think we've also noticed that when we put in protected bike lanes, because you're narrowing the roadway a bit, you slow people down, which will also help with traffic calming, make things a little bit easier. Specifically for pedestrians.

And I, I just thank you, Don. Um, I think I, I have 1 person who said that they were going to be present, but I don't have a sign in for a. Hannah, oh, that was you. Okay. All right, so that was the okay. So we're good. All right. Thank you. Um. I did have a sign and I apologize for that. Um. All right. And then if we can have the development team back up here for some follow up questions. Just starting with the, you know, other encumbrances, the floodplain, any interaction with the DNR and your thoughts on traffic in the area and

In parking, uh, Brian with the jazz, uh, in terms of conversations with the, those have been, those were started, uh, several weeks ago. Um, so we are in contact with the, and then also the army Corps of engineers. If that needs to come into play for both peers. Okay. For that piece. In terms of the floodplain, this was analyzed back in the 2019 rendition, which was Admiral's work in terms of that lower level that city height. So that was raised just kind of a lessons learned from developments around the area with some flooding in the lower levels. And this matches that same height of what was previously reviewed and approved at that. And that has been a topic of conversation that we've looked at too.

And then just the discussion about the new boat slips and who gets to be in them and who not asking for myself so the intent would be they're they're available for everyone but yeah residents first residents

also on a large boat. I don't, I think those are two separate individuals. The intent here is that if we have the slips up front to have that tie into the river, but, you know, will the person that rents the penthouse two bedroom have a boat maybe? Yeah. But yeah, I don't expect that they're all going to come. They're available to anybody who would like.

And then I think everything else is kind of just your um your the discussion of density um and height and just where you've been in your design process um to you know obviously i think you're hoping more units helps this make more sense and then just the parking counts compared to the um The unit mix.

Yes. Pardon the answer consistent with our last 2 developments all of the same. Size and scale the, uh, density. Or this is our 1st, um, this site, so I don't know what happened the previous 4 times, but, um, we like Milwaukee. I guess I can't speak to what happened in the past, but I can speak to...

I'm just talking about your design process.

Did you look at anything less high? No, I think our plans were informed by previous plans.

That's what makes the site work, frankly.

And I do believe the intent with the zoning for the south is that this kind of continues a trend in the south. I don't believe the intent. I believe they're PD all the way down right to the cell.

No, that hasn't been determined yet. I don't believe.

Okay.

Yeah, I don't know. Okay. There's something coming, but I don't know about it and I don't think any of us really speak to that.

So heavily informed by previous. And building height, the previous Admiral's Wharf was 11 stories. This one, overall building height is about the same. Floor-to-floor heights were slightly reduced, and over 12 stories, it kind of adds up to an extra.

Similar in terms of massing.

Yeah, we'd have to look at the previous just in terms of kind of some of the rooftop screening, you know, and how high that stuck up as compared to this one.

And then, the vegetation and just your landscape plan. I know that there was a staff comment about more native vegetation. It is sad to lose mature trees. I don't know if there's any way to save them, but throwing it out there, seeing what you've studied and what you've looked at in terms of getting a native habitat back in.

Yeah, and staff's comments have been to re, look at those as more, you know, native pieces. So our landscape architect is working on, you know, revised. It'd be the same quantity of what we're currently showing, but, you know, getting a species that's native to the area, making sure that's.

Those align any other follow up questions from the commissioners.

um commissioner moody have you talked to the surrounding businesses about the project and getting feedback you know when that meeting is

And the sun studies or anything about how you are impacting the neighbors?

No official studies, but we've done kind of, you know, fly around renders to see, you know, different times of the year, solstices, and just to see different impacts for the shadow kind of study on that Water Street, Pittsburgh side.

And what found the neighbors? Suggesting? Assistant?

Um, it, it depends on time of year, just with the, with kind of a solar angle. But, I mean, with with any sort of 12 story development, you're going to end up with shadows in some area.

Just think that it's more on. The architecture from across the street potentially than some of the. Residential pieces, but the.

Some studies from, yeah, pretty good times a year. Okay. Submit them as to what the effect is. Okay.

Yes, and we did look at that just for the pool itself on the building too, just to, to assure that, you know, wasn't a constant shade.

Um. Just the interaction with these other due diligence and the floodplain issues on the DNR. I mean, could that move things?

So that has been evaluated already and that's what's been determined and what their design has been hinged on. So when they initially reached out to us, we brought in DPW and made sure that their design was based on where the studies have brought us to today.

Okay.

Yeah.

So it's similar to earlier ones that have been. Yes, and ordinary high water mark is taken into account.

Correct. And Don was part of that review early on to verify all of that with the team.

Okay.

All right. Any other questions from commissioners? Not, is there a motion?

Uh, this is commissioner Washington. I just want to get a point of clarification. So, excuse me. My apologies. Um. I know that there are some contingencies, but Don had. Recommended that there be a loading zone added to the front of the building, which I'm not quite sure that is in.

The current contingency condition 6.

Oh, it's condition six.

Okay. That is in number one. We do have that, the final statement in condition number one.

Great. I stand corrected.

Yeah, I just wanted to make sure. I just wanted to make sure. And then the landscaping plan is also part of the conditions as well, Tonya?

Yes.

yes correct so i took notes on that the applicant was willing to under one short-term bike parking revised entry to work to work with staff on and i apparently a water street loading zone and then um condition two was updated la landscape architecture plan to have more native plantings to work with staff number three on tinted Um, glass options for final approval. Um, and then condition for updated plans and elevations to reflect these changes. Um, including, uh, the materials, um, and then, uh, material, uh, condition 5 being a building materials. Um, sheet, um, which would also work with staff to determine final materials.

Sorry, 1 other thing 1 other thing I don't remember is really discussing. Do we talk about the exterior lighting plan? Along the river walk in, um. I guess the East and North and South.

Points to the building, I don't believe we have talked with the development team about that. I don't know if you've reviewed it with staff and have approvals there.

We have, uh, we have reviewed lighting with with staff along with design review board. Um, and that that that's shown in the renderings in terms of vertical lighting. It's also outlined in the, the narrative in terms of the types of lighting and signage.

We are, we are comfortable with what they're proposing. Okay. Consistent with with the river. And kind of a good hybrid between, um. The existing river walk and and the connection to the. harbor district guidelines as well. So it'll be a good transition.

Okay. Mr. Washington, did you hear that answer?

Uh, I did.

Okay. Any other questions?

Uh, no.

Any other questions or potentially emotion from 1 of the commissioners? Um, I think you could probably refer to what I just said.

We have to do it separately or together.

Um, I think you can. Let's do them separately just for great clear greater clarity.

Conditionally based off, uh. I'm sure conditions that she spoke. Item 252190.

second commissioner smith plan development perfect commissioner i was just seconding his um motion perfect any discussions Hearing none, I will take a roll call vote. Commissioner Renee Washington. Commissioner Washington.

I'll say aye, excuse me.

That's OK. Commissioner Moody.

Aye.

Commissioner Gonzalez.

Aye.

Commissioner Smith.

Aye.

Motion passes. Item number four on our agenda, 260085. Is there a motion from the commission? This relates to the Riverwalk and multifamily residential development. Anyone?

Commissioner Moody approves conditionally based off the stated conditions item 260085.

out the straws, correct? Correct.

In the landscape. So yeah, I think we can apply the same conditions.

Okay. Is there a second?

Commissioner Gonzalez, I will second that motion.

Any discussion? Commissioner Washington? Commissioner Moody?

Aye.

Commissioner Gonzalez?

Aye.

Commissioner Smith?

Aye.

And the motion passes. And I want to thank everyone for their thoughtful testimony today. And know that we'll continue to take that into account as this item moves forward. So congratulations and. And thank you, thank you.

Thank you.

Is there anything else for the good of the. Of the cost hearing none we have a motion to adjourn.

So, move 2nd, all those.

All right. All right. All right. Motion passes.