Rockford City Council gives OK for apartment complex, senior living along Garrett Lane

By Kevin Haas
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — City Council members on Monday approved plans for a 240-unit apartment development and 136-unit senior care facility along Garrett Lane north of Target, Home Depot and a residential subdivision.

The vote came after several weeks of delays and 35 minutes of discussion Monday night. The project faced pushback from residents in the adjacent neighborhood and nearby Bello Reserve subdivision who said the development was too dense and would create issues with traffic and lower property values. Proponents say it adds needed housing options to the community.

The council ultimately voted 12-2 on Monday to approve the development at 6654 Garrett Lane. Aldermen Tim Durkee, who represents the ward where the project is proposed, and Alderman Jeff Bailey voted against. The matter required 10 votes in favor because it came forward with a negative recommendation of the Zoning Board of Appeals in June.

The plan from developer Rockford Senior Campus calls for four, three-story structures to be built on 11 of the 19 acres. Each building would have 60 units with underground parking. A clubhouse with a pool would be in the middle of the development with additional parking around it.

A senior living facility operated by New Perspective Senior Living would be built in a second phase of construction on the remaining 7 acres. It would include 98 assisted living or independent living apartments and 38 units for people who require memory care for support with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.

“This will enable individuals who would like to downsize and stay in our community and stay near family have a place to do just that,” Alderman Chad Tuneberg said. “I think there is a need for that in our community. I would like to see more of these in our community.”

The apartment complex would include studio, two-bedroom and three-bedroom apartments open to all ages at market rates. Rents are expected to be approximately $2,500, the developer previously said.

Duplex development approved

City Council members on Monday voted to approve a separate residential project to build six duplexes at South Mulford Road and Phaeton Drive.

Alderment voted 14-0 to approve a special-use permit that allows Jazs Properties to go forward with the project. Durkee had voted against it in a preliminary vote but later clarified he supported the project.

Each unit would have about 1,800 square feet and an attached two-car garage. They would be rented for approximately $2,500 to $3,000 per month, developers said.

This article is by Kevin Haas. Email him at khaas@rockrivercurrent.com or follow him on X at @KevinMHaas or Instagram @thekevinhaas and Threads @thekevinhaas