Mount Vernon's Planning Board postponed a vote on six new townhouses at 408 South Seventh Avenue, demanding the developer revise plans for outdoor spaces, parking, and landscaping. Commissioners pushed for designs that prioritize existing residents' quality of life, particularly concerning noise and visual impacts in the dense residential neighborhood.

What Happened

  • The board delayed its decision on the 408 South Seventh Avenue townhouses, requiring the developer to return with revised plans for outdoor spaces and parking. This means the project's design remains in flux as the board seeks to mitigate impacts on the surrounding neighborhood.
  • Commissioners voiced strong opposition to a proposed rooftop terrace, citing concerns about potential noise disturbing nearby residents. The developer agreed to explore smaller, ground-level patios or alternative noise mitigation.
  • Board members questioned the durability of proposed landscaping meant to screen front-yard mechanical units, asking for robust, year-round options. This pushed the developer to consider more substantial plantings to maintain aesthetic standards.
  • A required percolation test for stormwater drainage could not be performed due to winter weather conditions. This means a critical piece of environmental data is still missing before the project can move forward.

Project Outcomes

  • 136 East Third Street: Approved to convert an existing car detail shop into a one-bay car repair space, conditioned on specific sidewalk repairs.
  • 27 Beach Street: Approved a site plan and special permit to construct a two-story concrete industrial building with new driveway paving and landscaping.
  • 408 South Seventh Avenue (six townhouses): Deferred, with the board requiring revised designs for outdoor amenities, parking, and landscaping before reconsideration.

What's Next

  • March 4 Planning Board Meeting: The developer for 408 South Seventh Avenue must present new 3D renderings and revised plans addressing outdoor space designs, parking striping, and robust landscaping for screening.
  • Prior to Permit Issuance: A percolation test must be successfully completed for 408 South Seventh Avenue to assess stormwater drainage.
  • Ongoing Change: Starting March 4, the Planning Board will hold its monthly work sessions and regular meetings on the same day, Wednesdays at 6:00 PM, a change from previous separate Tuesday work sessions.

Mount Vernon's Planning Board postponed a vote on six new townhouses at 408 South Seventh Avenue, demanding the developer revise plans for outdoor spaces, parking, and landscaping. Commissioners pushed for designs that prioritize existing residents' quality of life, particularly concerning noise and visual impacts in the dense residential neighborhood.