Can a vacant, burned out building be put to good use? The folks at The Ruston Building LLC think so. A variance request will be heard by Ruston's planning commission next Wednesday, January 28th at 7 pm to remake the former Coles Tavern into a new mixed use building.
Ruston's staff planner has recommended approval of the height and setback variances with conditions. The full report is available on Ruston Reports or on the Northcreek Consulting (the planner's) web page here.
Public comment will be taken at the meeting Wednesday. Written comment can be accepted until the hearing closes. You can send a letter to Town Hall (5117 N. Winnifred, 98407) or come by in person to testify.
4 comments:
Wait. Ruston requires a height variance to let that 2 story be convereted into a 3 story?
There should not be any "setback." That simply creates suburban strip mall type setting.
The building should be built immediately adjacent to the sidewalk like the other attactive buildings in Ruston are.
The business district in Ruston was built well but destructive suburban type requirements have seeped their way into the code, same as Tacoma.
The planners should consult with th architects.
You don't need a height variance. 1st floor 14, second and third floors 10' each, with a foot to spare. The building should conform to these height restrictions, by this sensible ordinance of 35' max.
Allowing for a 40' height(amendment)to the Com-P zone would make all the difference. It is hard to screen any roof top devices and such with only a 35' height limit.No views are affected, nor shadowing of neighbors. I sure would like to see this site improved.
Also. There is plenty of on street parking for three apartments up and down 51st Street.
Ruston:
Go forth and prosper.
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