Developers request zoning concessions at former E-B site

Even as the former Elder-Beerman building is torn down, developers have requested zoning exceptions from the city of Richmond for the apartments that will replace the former department store.

Two petitions for developer Flaherty & Collins Properties and architect American Structurepoint are on the agenda for the Richmond Board of Zoning Appeals’ Dec. 18 meeting. The public meeting, which was moved from Dec. 11, is scheduled at 5:30 p.m. in the third-floor chambers of the Richmond Municipal Building.

The petitions make three requests:

• Permitting 11 studio apartments that are 539 square feet. City code sets the minimum size as 700 square feet. “This change is essential for making quality housing accessible to a wider range of individuals and families, ensuring that everyone has a chance to thrive in our community,” the petition said.
• Allowing 150 apartment units on the 1.7-acre site. The city code sets a maximum of 50 units per acre.“Our market study indicates that relying solely on fewer, larger units will make it challenging to generate the required revenue to sustain this development,” the petition said.
• Enabling the four-story development to include first-floor apartments to complement its East Main Street retail space. First-floor apartments are not permitted in the general business district zoning.“Incorporating first-floor dwelling units is essential for aligning with the district’s intent, as it minimizes property impacts while enhancing the economic vitality of the neighborhood through the addition of residents,” the petition said.

Site plans submitted with the petitions show the apartments built around a courtyard that includes a synthetic turf lawn, swimming pool and dog park. The development also includes a bike storage area.

Other issues

The BZA is scheduled to hear another petition requesting a variance of development to reduce the minimum dwelling unit size. This request is for a planned assisted-living facility at 1901 and 1907 Chester Boulevard.

Marian Development Group plans to invest $44 million to construct a four-story facility with about 120 units. It would merge the two Chester Boulevard properties that have now both been re-zoned for multi-family residential.

Also on the agenda is a petition that would permit walk-in retail sales for a home floral business at 2036 Salisbury Road S.