The Cannon Street Apartments would be constructed at the corner of Cannon and Jason Streets. These buildings would be razed.
This property at 705 W. Poinsett Street is where the proposed Poinsett Street Apartments would be constructed. Across the street is a laundromat and small grocery store.
The City Planning Commission approved property at 217 Cannon and Jason Streets to be rezoned from C-1 (commercial) to DRD (Design Review District). That property is owned by T.L. Baldree of Greer. The 1.62 acres was previously listed by Coldwell Banker Caine at $1.5 million.
The 1.76 acres at 705 Poinsett Street, owned by Brenda Medlock of Greer, was rezoned from C-2 (commercial) to RM-2 (residential multi family). The property's price was unavailable.
Glenn Pace, Greer Planning and Zoning Coordinator, presented his staff's recommendations for approval to the commission. Cannon Street Apartments passed 4-0 with Clay Jones abstaining for conflict of interest since he surveyed the property. The commission approved the Poinsett Street Apartments 5-0.
City Council will give the zoning proposal first reading on Feb. 28. The earliest council can give its approval is March 13. It is expected to take most of the summer for the state to approve tax credits with groundbreaking tentatively scheduled in the fall.
"It would be a tremendous addition to downtown," Pace said. "The more families we have downtown the more businesses they will be able to support."
The two buildings on Cannon Street, across from Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, would be razed.
Elevators will be installed in both apartments that must fall under the city height code of 60 feet. The apartments are designed for one and two bedrooms units.
The proposed Cannon Street Apartments will be designated for seniors 55 and over which will make them available for state credits. There are 56 parking spaces with three designated for handicap. Ammenities will include an office/business room and exercise room.
Pace said one parking space per unit should not be a problem at Cannon Street Apartments. "Seniors are downsizing and will need less space. There is ample parking downtown," Pace said.
Cannon Street will be the only entrance and exit into the complex.
Mike Summey represented the property owners and architects. "These (Cannon Street) apartments will not be subsidized housing," Summey told the commission.
Pace showed the planning commission the proposed design by the architects.
The Poinsett Street Apartments are also planned for 56 units with occupancy designated as "workplace". There are no restrictions. There are 89 parking spaces with three handicapped. The property was formerly used as a car lot.
Access will be available from both W. Poinsett and Ford streets.