Yard South developer files for rezoning of South Portland waterfront property [Video]

After years of discussion – and some pushback – about the transformation of a former shipyard next to South Portland’s Bug Light Park, a developer is seeking a zone change to allow the property to become a “vibrant” waterfront community.

The concept of the Yard South development has been circulating for several years, since the developer first went public with its plans to transform the 30-acre parcel into a mixed-use neighborhood with up to 1,000 residential units – including 100 affordable apartments – as well as restaurants and cafes, offices and other small businesses.

But the proposal has drawn criticism from some residents, including a group that believes the development is too big, out of character for the area and would add to traffic congestion on Broadway.

PK Realty, the developer, on Wednesday submitted an application for a zone change to allow for multifamily housing, which is not currently an allowed use. The application kicks off a long review process that includes determining …