EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. — The Edwardsville Plan Commission is reviewing a newly updated proposal for the Dorset Court Plaza development, bringing more family-friendly housing options to the city.

During the commission's May 20 meeting, officials evaluated an amended Planned Unit Development (PUD) request from developer Home First, LLC for the 1.24-acre site. While the proposed three-story building remains capped at 28 total apartments, the interior layout has been significantly redesigned to accommodate larger households.

Originally approved in June 2022 with only one- and two-bedroom options, the amended floor plan now features 14 one-bedroom, seven two-bedroom, and seven three-bedroom units. To support the shift toward family housing, the developer is introducing a small playground to the site—a new requirement mandated by the Illinois Housing Development Authority.

The site upgrades also address crucial infrastructure and environmental considerations. The development's private storm sewer system has been relocated beneath the 57-space parking lot, which will now feature eight accessible spaces. Furthermore, total greenspace has been slightly increased to 0.27 acres, and developers have reaffirmed their commitment to building a 10-foot shared-use path connecting residents directly to the Madison County Trail system.

City staff have recommended the approval of the amended plan, noting that the adjustments alter the site layout but do not require any additional zoning variances beyond those already granted in 2022. The commission will continue to iron out final details, including landscaping and tree preservation, as the project inches closer to breaking ground.