The Salem Planning Commission Tuesday night unanimously approved a zoning change that would allow the construction of a 72-unit apartment complex on Airport Road south of the current apartment complex.
Developer Scott Conant says the units would be constructed on a five-acre tract.
“Six buildings, 4 units each so 24 units to9tla in phase 1. We have 3 phases which will end up being 18 buildings and 72 units. They will be a mix of 2 and three-bedroom units. We do not have any plans for single one-bedroom units. It’s my experience we haven’t had much demand for those in our other projects.”
Conant says if all the zoning hurdles are cleared, he’d like to begin construction on Phase One by June.
The only concern raised was how the complex would aggravate existing flooding problems in the neighborhood and Airport Road. The engineer on the project Lee Beckman of Milano and Grunloh Engineers, LLC indicated there were seven basins to retain water on the property that would keep the runoff problem in the neighborhood from getting any worse.
Economic Development Director Leah Dellicarpini said there had been some discussion among city officials on the need to correct the overall drainage in the area to prevent flooding on Airport Road and a subdivision just south of the new development during heavy rains.
In other action, the planning commission approved a special use permit for a ‘drive-in restaurant’ business to lease space in the shopping center at 210 West Schwartz recently purchased by Zach Rose of rural Iuka. The Thirsty Heifer would offer diner/restaurant services including sit-down food and to-go orders. They plan to sell teas and other drinks as well as cold sandwiches.
The commission also approved a minor subdivision for Dr. Van Acker on two acres of property he has purchased as part of the development around Little Egypt Golf Cars. He plans to build his medical office on one of the lots.
All three projects still need final approval from the Salem City Council when they meet Monday night.
