Planning commission keeps tight leash on building height limits despite housing benefits

Renderings of the new DoubleTree Hotel Yarrow mixed-use development. Photo: Singerman Real Estate

Pamela Greacen, president of SMHG and an investor in the property, expressed deep disappointment following the commission's unwillingness to budge on the variance. The height, she noted, was essential to balance the financial investment required for the affordable housing units.

PARK CITY, Utah — The Park City Planning Commission’s handling of The Yarrow’s redevelopment proposal for 1800 Park could signal that increasing building height is not a solution for addressing local housing shortages. The position reflects Park City’s priority on maintaining the town’s aesthetic and character, even as housing needs grow.

The proposal, a collaborative project involving SMHG and Singerman Real Estate, included 60 affordable housing units as part of a comprehensive hotel redevelopment of the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Park City—The Yarrow. However, the project hinged on approval for a 10-foot height variance. Pamela Greacen, president of SMHG and an investor in the property, expressed deep disappointment following the commission’s unwillingness to budge on the variance. The height, she noted, was essential to balance the financial investment required for the affordable housing units.

Greacen emphasized the extensive public support for the project and the months of modifications to address community concerns. Despite including affordable housing, underground parking, and expanded public areas, the Planning Commission’s position on height remained firm. “We genuinely felt optimistic that we were going to get there,” Greacen shared, highlighting that the team worked to address feedback at every step. However, she clarified that the project is not “abandoned” and that the development team remains open to discussions, provided they align with financial realities. Commissioners motioned to continue discussions on 1800 Park on an undefined future date.