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Est. 2014

Downtown apartment complex moves one step closer to final approval

Downtown apartment complex moves one step closer to final approval

(THE MED CITY BEAT) - The Rochester Planning and Zoning Commission signed off this week on a mixed-use development on the south side of downtown.

The final plan for "501 on First" was approved by a 2-1 vote, with four members abstaining. The project was supported by city staff even though the developer did not meet all 17 conditions laid out by the planning department.

 
 

The commission's vote is only a recommendation, meaning it still needs final approval from the city council. Last month, the council approved the developer's request for a $1.7 million incentive package.

Plans call for a five-story building with commercial space at the ground level and 84 apartments in the upper floors. Residential units will be a mix of studios, one-bedrooms and two-bedrooms.

Rendering: 501 on First / City council packet)

Rendering: 501 on First / City council packet)

According to the developer, the new building will also include a shared fitness room, private storage units for rent and a rooftop patio with an adjacent community room.

The property — home to the former University Village Inn — is located along the south side of 5th Street SW and east of 2nd Ave SW. The motel building still needs to be demolished.

On a related note, the planning and zoning commission rejected a proposal for a Walgreens development in northwest Rochester. The city council struck down a similar plan in December.

 
 

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(Cover graphic: 501 on First / City council packet)

Community bike ride: First-ever Pedalfest held Saturday in Rochester

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Week in review (5/29): Sean Baker of The Med City Beat on Pulse FM

Week in review (5/29): Sean Baker of The Med City Beat on Pulse FM