Planning commission approves three development proposals

Ever since Knickerbockers was torn down in 2017, the lot where it used to be at 9th and O streets has stood muddy and undeveloped.

But on Wednesday, the Lincoln/Lancaster County Planning Commission approved a proposed amendment to the Lincoln Center Redevelopment Plan to put a 6-story hotel in its place.

Urban Development said there are some perks to it.

“The project takes care of its own parking,” Assistant Director Dallas McGee said.  “The parking will be built underground, for the most part and will be supplied by the developer.  The city won’t be building any parking in conjunction with this redevelopment.”

McGee said the project could also spur development in the South Haymarket area.

The commission passed it 8-0, saying it fits the redevelopment plan.

“Ninth and O is…a very important intersection that will only serve to be benefited by this project,” Commissioner Tracy Edgerton said.

They also gave the thumbs up to a unique proposal that would construct four duplexes partly made of storage containers near 28th and Vine streets.

“It’s between the two main campuses, it’s close to downtown, the street is very vibrant,” said Cycleworks and Moose’s Tooth President Kris Sonderup, who is also the developer.  “It’s just worked out very well and this allows us to put some other newer housing that is going after the same target group.”

Sonderup said it’ll attract young professionals.

“I think this’ll be a great addition to the neighborhood,” Commissioner Tracy Corr said.  “It’s a nice mix of kind of some contemporary stuff, but also mixing in the old.”

The commission also approved the zone change and annexation of around 77 acres of property near S. 70th St. and Rokeby Road for a new housing development with almost 1,700 new homes.

The planning commission’s approvals are just considered recommendations to the Lincoln City Council, which will have final approval.