Roanoke Rapids planners this evening passed on a recommendation of approval to city council for a 40-unit senior citizen housing complex on Becker Drive.

The planning board agreed the complex, which represents a $5 million investment, would be in harmony with the area and would conform with the city’s comprehensive development plan as well as other plans adopted by the city.

Weaver-Kirkland Housing requested a conditional use permit for the project called River Town Manor, which will be located on five acres of land on the north side of Becker Drive between Tenth Street and Georgia Avenue.

The developer proposes the property would be developed as a two-story building providing affordable housing for senior residents. The building would consist of 24 one-bedroom and 16 two-bedroom units.

According to a memo from Planning and Development Director Kelly Lasky to planning board members, the development will feature exterior balconies or patios, sunrooms and front porches. It will have a multi-purpose room with kitchen, computer center and exterior common areas with picnic tables and grill.

Plans also include a central covered drive through and drop-off area. Landscaping includes shade and ornamental trees along with perimeter plants. Security lighting will be installed throughout the development and security cameras will be installed for added safety, the memo said.

No one spoke in opposition to the proposal during the public hearing this evening.

Linda G. Wall, vice president of Weaver-Kirkland, told planners, “We’re excited to be here.”

She said the company had one wetlands issue in the area, which essentially required turning the development around and getting a delineation from the Army Corps of Engineers. Construction completion is expected by the end of next year, Wall said.

Responding to a question by planning board member Robert White Jr., Wall said the development would have exterior and interior camera systems.

She said the development is for people 55 and older. The only exception is people who are 45 and younger may live there if they are certified as disabled.

Wall said the development is designed to give residents a sense of community. “We do have social services in place where people get this feeling of community. People write letters saying they are so appreciative. It’s going to be a good addition to your city.”

Planning board member Connie Hill was appreciative of the proposal. “I think we’ve needed it for a long time … we needed it yesterday.”

Planning board Chair Gregory Browning said, “I think it will be a great asset for our senior citizens.”