'Residential plex' gains ground in Mequon

Mequon - Plans for a five-building, 10-unit residential development on the city's west side have proceeded, following action Monday by the Plan Commission.

Developer S. K. Mehta came before commissioners with the proposal, which has been earmarked on 2.8 acres of land at 7645 W. Mequon Road and 11129-11137 N. Wauwatosa Road.

A rezoning of the land from residential to suburban residential was necessary for plans to proceed.

Citing its location, city staff members have been supportive of Mehta's plans for the site. The project is being described as a plex development because multiple buildings are involved.

"The site seems appropriate for residential plex development in that it is located along a major thoroughfare, is near the Town Center and would serve as a transition between single-family residential development to the west and commercial uses to the east," said Jac Zader, assistant director of community development.

Mequon has other residential plex developments, including Aster Woods, Willowbrook Estates and Windsor Estates.

Commissioners asked Mehta and other representatives for a rough idea of the selling price for the units. While specifics were not revealed, the developers said similar units sell between $275,000 and $350,000.

"There is no question we need housing in that price point in the city," said Mayor Curt Gielow, who chairs the Plan Commission.

Plans call for building the residential development about 100 feet from Mequon Road and placing a private residential road for access. A turnaround has been proposed within the development to assist with emergency medical transport.

Further details are still being fleshed out, including a detailed landscaping plan that will outline the types of trees that will be planted in the area. Commissioners expressed a desire to have significant landscaping along the perimeter of the lot line to serve as a buffer.

Mehta also has revealed plans to construct a retention pond within the property, which will necessitate a detailed stormwater management plan.