Portland Planning Board approves 33-unit supportive housing at 1871 Forest Ave

The Portland Planning Board approved a major site plan for a 33-unit supportive housing development at 1871 Forest Avenue, granting waivers for parking and building setbacks. The board also approved two smaller residential developments at 0 Dalton Street and 16 Carrington Way, addressing public concerns about stormwater, trail access, and street conditions.

Key points

• The board approved the 1871 Forest Avenue application, waiving requirements for landscape islands and allowing a 32-foot build-to exception for the irregularly shaped lot.
• Public commenters supported the Forest Avenue project, with a Quaker meeting member praising the proposed crosswalk and drainage improvements.
• The board approved the 0 Dalton Street development, waiving sidewalk installation requirements due to the narrow, dead-end nature of the street.
• Residents at Dalton Street raised concerns about road deterioration from previous construction and the preservation of native vegetation.
• The board approved the 16 Carrington Way development, which includes a formalized trail easement for the Portland Trails system.
• A public commenter at Carrington Way disputed the staff's claim that the site is not in a protected watershed and raised concerns about blasting impacts.

Next steps

• The applicant for 1871 Forest Avenue must submit an emergency vehicle turning template for city approval.
• The applicant for 16 Carrington Way must finalize the trail easement with the city as a condition of approval.
• Staff will monitor the email address for technical issues during hybrid meetings.

Read the full transcript