A proposed 21-unit residential complex on the north side of Dahlia Street east of Mill Street was approved without comment of opposition Thursday evening by the Leighton Township Board.
The project, which includes a private road 30 feet wide between Mill and Garden streets, is proposed by Why Knott Ventures. It will have private water wells, septic systems and no lighting fixtures on the private road.
Jeff Van Laar, engineer for the project, explained, “We’re not pursuing street lights for this development. It’s not required and the neighbors don’t want it.”
Indeed a couple dozens citizens showed up at the Township Planning Commission meeting April 11 to voice opposition, based on intrusive lighting and noise, potential traffic troubles and safety of children living in the area.
The Planning Commission recommended the development nonetheless.
The current zoning for the 17-plus acre parcel is R-2, medium density residential, so no rezoning is necessary. There are no plans for any sidewalks, but there is a willingness to provide some kind of access to the paved non-motorized walking and paving trail, if that becomes a reality.
VanLaar said developer Brian DeSmit has promised everything possible will be done to keep as many trees and shrubbery intact.
“We want to preserve the wooded feel of the development,” VanLaar said. “We’re excited about this project and we we fell now that it’s moving forward.”
He added that construction will begin in the summer and continue into the fall.
