GF P&Z OK’s West School housing plans

Developers passed the first test last night (Wednesday) on plans to redevelop the former West school site into nearly a dozen single family homes.

The Grand Forks Planning and Zoning Commission approved a series of motions designed to pave way for the redevelopment – including a replat and an amendment to the zoning map for a micro PUD.

The Grand Forks School District shuttered the building due to mold and radon issues which resulted in the eventual sale of the property to Oxford/Premiere Homes for $150,000 dollars.

City Planner Ryan Brooks says the developers are asking for some minor modifications – but nothing the city hasn’t seen before.

P & Z President Steve Wasvick says he likes the overall concept.  “Five years ago we would have smashed two 24-plexes in here without blinking an eye.  I see a neighborhood and a single family neighborhood.”

The city issued a building permit to raze the former school on November 3rd.   Crews are readying the site for demolition which should take place this month.

The city council will review the P & Z actions in January.