The Southwest Design Review Board has recommended that a new government funded housing project, located at 2988 Avalon Way, move forward to apply for a master use permit with the city.

The housing complex is three and four stories high and includes 16 residential units and 16 on-site parking paces. Operated by Transitional Resources, it will serve as a home for individuals, some who may have previously been homeless, with a mental illness that has affected their ability to find long-term housing. The residents are offered counseling and taught life skills so that they are able to live sustainable life.

The public seemed pleased with the project design and the supportive of the population it will serve.

"I'm really impressed with what's been done," said Sandra Melo, local resident.

Another housing development operated by Transitional Resources is located just north on Avalon Way. Mark Hewitt, who owns an office building next door to the developing property, attended the design review meeting to express his support of the work Transitional Resources has previously done in the neighborhood.

"They've been great neighbors and nice folks," he said.

Still, members of the design review board questioned the mass and scale of the project.

"It feels like it wants to be a large house or a multifamily unit," said Robin Murphy, a new board member. "It feels haphazard, a little unresolved."

It was questioned whether the project included enough parking spaces, but the architect, Alan C. Keimig, of Keimig Associates, explained that many of the residents would not be operating vehicles, and that the parking had been approved by city planners.

Board members seemed to appreciate a large, open green space east of the housing units. This landscaping will include include barbeque facilities and organic gardening.

"It creates a nice courtyard and completes whats already been started," said Murphy.

Keimig says the entire project is sustainably built and could be green-certified.

The project will be subject to further review from the board before construction can begin. Such meetings have yet to be scheduled.