The zoning board of appeals in Edwardsville, Ill., recently approved a special-use permit for a self-storage development that will include indoor units and outdoor-vehicle parking. The developer, 2S Properties, had previously received a special-use permit for the project at 211 Second Ave., but it only covered part of the property, requiring a second appeal. The tract of land in question was zoned M-1 manufacturing.

Although the board extended the special-use permit to the additional property, there was some debate during the meeting in regards to the outdoor parking. A representative for 2S Properties, David Gerber, told board members the plans call for an 8-foot chain-link fence for the portion that would include vehicle parking, which meets the citys height ordinance. Screening and plants would also be installed. The zoning board approved the permit contingent on adding these components. It also requested the fencing have vinyl-screening slats, board approval of planting sites before installation, and that the landscaping be maintained.

Another area of concern was the size of the buildings. The plans include one building measuring 30 feet by 160 feet or 180 feet, or about 22,000 square feet. Because a portion of the property is under power lines, approval for additional buildings will depend on input from the local power company, Ameren Illinois. If buildings cannot be erected, Gerber told the board the area would be considered for outdoor-vehicle parking, bringing the sites total exterior parking to 27,500 square feet.

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