The Willow Glen Resident

Housing project close to approval after four years

By Christine Frey

The four-year debate surrounding a Radio Avenue housing project may finally come to an end. Developer Bob Schwenke met with Radio Avenue neighbors July 20 to review the plans for the six single-family homes he hopes to build on a cul-de-sac just off the avenue. For the first time since he began designing the project in 1994, the community did not oppose his proposal. "I know we're on the right track," Schwenke said after the meeting.

At the end of last year, neighbors objected to his designs for eight single-family homes, saying the density was too high. Earlier in 1994, they opposed his plans to build six homes on half an acre. Now, after returning to the drawing board for a third time, Schwenke has created a new plan: four 2,400-square-foot homes and two 3,000-square-foot homes on three-quarters of an acre.

During last week's meeting, five Radio Avenue neighbors and a representative of the Willow Glen Neighborhood Association voiced their concerns with the project. Alice Easter, who lives on one of the seven lots that would adjoin the development, was worried that a two-story home behind her property would invade her privacy and block the sunlight.

Schwenke assured her that the development would not pose such problems. The house would be 20 feet away from her property, and the master bedroom window would be the only one facing her yard. He added that he could redesign the master bedroom so the window does not overlook her home.

Michael Enderby, from the city's department of planning, building and code enforcement, told the neighbors that the city will be sensitive to such details when studying Schwenke's plans. "We're trying to really balance a lot of needs here," he said.

After having all her questions answered, Easter was more receptive to the project. "In general, you kind of have to accept progress," she said.

The other neighbors in attendance agreed. All residents who live within 300 feet of the proposed development site were notified of the meeting. Unless Schwenke meets opposition from those residents who didn't attend last week's meeting, his plans will go before the Planning Commission in mid-August and the City Council at the beginning of September.

If both approve the zoning of the project, then Schwenke will finalize the details of the plans--such as the placement of windows--and present them for review again. Schwenke estimates it will take approximately a year to complete the development's construction. However, he believes that the homes will improve the quality of the neighborhood. "When all is said and done, I think they're going to be a real asset to the community," he said.

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