By Kevin Hanson-The Courier-Herald

A substantial addition to Enumclaw's inventory of senior housing is anticipated, with a 73-unit subdivision planned for the city's east side now working its way through the city's permitting process.

The development, planned for 13 acres just east of Farman Street and north of Mountain View Drive, was approved by members of the Enumclaw Planning Commission and passed by the City Council on a first reading. A second reading and final approval was anticipated during Monday night's council session.

The development is proposed by Bart and Karen Jensen, who sought a change in zoning from “mobile home park” to “planned unit development.”

The Jensen's plan is for both traditional homes and townhouses, all geared to a 55-plus population.

The development has been opposed by residents of the adjacent Crystal Aire senior housing neighborhood, a number of whom spoke at a pair of public hearings. Those in the established development have expressed concerns their privacy could be compromised by new neighbors.

The city determined the project would not cause environment damage and a full environmental impact statement was not required.

However, the Planning Commission placed four conditions upon the project.

Commission members suggested greater setbacks than usual, to provide more separation between new units and existing homes; noted that streets should conform to those found in the newer Elk Meadows and Suntop developments; recommended a set of design standards be formulated and submitted to the city's Design Review Board for approval; and recommended the use of gated access for the subdivision's three entry points.

Kevin Hanson can be reached at khanson@courierherald.com.