Planning Commission Reviews Change For Enfield Development

ENFIELD, CT — A 42-unit housing development already under construction on Brainard Road could soon shift to a 55-and-older community, following a review Thursday night by the Planning and Zoning Commission.

Mannarino Builders is seeking to convert the previously approved multifamily housing project at 242 Brainard Road — known as Stonebridge Commons — into a senior residential development. The 21-acre parcel sits at the corner of Brainard Road and George Washington Road.

The proposal requires three separate approvals: a zone change from the current Multi-Family Housing District back to R-44 residential; text amendments to the town’s senior residential development regulations; and a modified site plan/special permit reflecting the age-restricted concept.

However, no votes were taken Thursday.

Town staff informed commissioners that required filings for the text and map amendments had not been submitted to the Town Clerk at least 10 days prior to the public hearing, as required by state statute. As a result, the commission heard presentations and asked questions but voted to keep all three hearings open until its next meeting, when action could be taken.

What’s Changing — And What’s Not

The developer and project engineer emphasized that the layout, drainage systems, road configuration and total number of units would remain the same. Construction has already begun under the previously approved multifamily designation, with several units in progress.

The primary difference would be restricting occupancy to residents age 55 and older.

To avoid redesigning the site, the applicant is also asking to align certain senior housing dimensional standards with those already approved under the multifamily zone. Specifically, the proposal would:

• Reduce the required distance between buildings in the senior development from 30 feet to 20 feet.
• Modify side-yard setbacks from 50 feet to 35 feet, matching the multifamily rules.

Town planning staff told commissioners the two types of developments are otherwise very similar and said they did not see major impacts associated with the requested changes.

Design Flexibility And Garages

The developer also requested flexibility in home footprints, explaining that minor expansions — such as small bump-outs — may occur based on buyer preferences, but overall building coverage would remain within zoning limits.

Commissioners signaled general comfort with allowing that flexibility, provided total impervious coverage and stormwater design calculations are not exceeded.

The applicant also floated the idea of allowing limited three-car garages on a handful of lots. Several commissioners expressed support, noting potential demand for hobby space or accommodating visiting family members. No objections were raised.

Signage Question Remains

One unresolved issue involves project signage. The applicant is proposing two entrance signs — one at each driveway on Brainard Road. Current zoning regulations allow one identification sign per development.

Planning staff said they would review whether flexibility exists under the special permit process or whether a regulatory amendment would be required.

No Public Comment

No members of the public attended or spoke during the hearings.

What’s Next

All three public hearings related to Stonebridge Commons were continued to the commission’s March meeting, where formal votes are expected once statutory filing requirements are satisfied.

If approved, the development would proceed as a 55-plus senior community, with 42 detached residential units built in two phases.