Beverly Hills : Housing Project Approved

Against the recommendations of the city Planning Commission, the City Council voted unanimously to allow construction of a proposed 64-unit senior citizen housing project at 214-226 N. Clark Drive.

Planning Commission members last Nov. 30 voted against issuing a conditional-use permit for the building, saying that although the project met city parking and density requirements, it would contribute to existing traffic congestion and parking shortages in the area. The commission also said the project did not provide adequate parking for emergency vehicles or cars picking up or dropping off passengers.

The council on Tuesday tentatively granted an appeal of the commission’s ruling, and it instructed city officials to complete a report ensuring the project has adequate parking and that handicapped residents will be housed on the first floor. The council is expected to formally approve the project in the next few weeks, after officials complete their report, city spokesman Fred Cunningham said.