Developer Seeks Reduced PUD for Ramsdell Street Housing
Keel Capital presented a proposal on December 1, 2025 to redevelop the former Traverse Bay United Methodist Church site at 1200 Ramsdell Street into 36 residential units, and requested a reduced lot size planned unit development to move the project forward. The proposal would convert a non taxable parcel to housing, add private infrastructure investments, and raise local policy questions about density, tree replacement, and precedent for future PUD reductions.
On December 1, 2025 Keel Capital brought a redevelopment application to the Planning Commission for the 2.31 acre former Traverse Bay United Methodist Church property at 1200 Ramsdell Street. The proposal calls for 18 townhomes plus an 18 unit condominium building, a total of 36 residential units, and requests relief from the city planned unit development ordinance which requires a minimum of three acres.
The developer emphasized sensitive massing in its design, stepping the condominium building down to townhome scale along adjacent parcels, and enclosing or tucking parking to reduce surface lots. Parking strategies include tuck under garages, detached garages, and enclosed parking for condominium units. The project also proposes stormwater improvements on site, EV ready parking stalls, and a planting replacement plan that would add two new trees for each tree removed.
Keel Capital told planners that nearly all infrastructure improvements would be privately funded and that the conversion of the property would shift the parcel from non taxable status to a taxable use, increasing the local tax base. The proposal notes the developer has an established local track record and positioned private funding as a way to limit immediate municipal costs.
The Planning Commission review on December 1 focused on the reduced lot size request and the broader policy implications for city development rules. If the commission issues a positive recommendation the application will proceed to City Commission review for final approvals. Approval would set a procedural precedent for reduced lot size PUDs and could influence how other small infill sites are developed within the city.
For residents the project presents both opportunities and trade offs. The addition of 36 units will increase housing supply in a central neighborhood and add taxable value, while changes in traffic, neighborhood scale, and tree canopy will be concerns to monitor. Residents can follow the Planning Commission recommendation and upcoming City Commission hearings to review site plans and provide input before final decisions are made.
