Rouzan developer Tommy Spinosa has again asked the Planning Commission to defer his requested amendment to FuturEBR’s Major Street Plan.
Spinosa is requesting that the Major Street Plan be amended to allow a reduction of the designated right-of-way width on a portion of Perkins Road between Glasgow Avenue and Congress Boulevard, which is located along the southwest corner of his traditional neighborhood development. But the Planning Commission staff is recommending the board reject the request, noting that the right-of-way may be needed for future improvements to the busy Perkins Road corridor. Earlier this year, the city-parish Department of Transportation and Drainage also recommended denial of Spinosa’s request, citing “future transportation needs.”
In his application earlier this year, Spinosa did not explain why he is requesting the change, which he notes would affect approximately 700 square feet of area, but Planning Director Frank Duke says by reducing the setback Spinosa would be able to shift some of the buildings planned for Rouzan closer to the street. Currently, that area is designated as green space.
“We are supporting the Department of Transportation and Drainage on this because there is already too much unknown about the future right-of-way needs on Perkins Road,” Duke says. “We may need additional turning lanes in the area.”
Duke says he does not know why Spinosa requested a deferral. The matter also was deferred in May.
Concerns about increased traffic congestion in an area that is already gridlocked during rush hour has been one of the concerns surrounding the development of Rouzan since its inception.
Also on the Planning Commission agenda tonight is a rezoning request by Crispy Catch seafood restaurant at 3109 Perkins Road to allow alcohol sales. The owners of the restaurant, which opened earlier this year, previously told Daily Report their plan was always to serve alcohol at the once they got up and running.
The Planning Commission meets at 5 p.m. on the third floor of City Hall, 222 St. Louis St. See the full agenda.
—Stephanie Riegel
