By Jennifer Edwards
The Cincinnati Enquirer

HYDE PARK - Residents upset about plans for a six-story building proposed for this neighborhood's historic square can talk with the developers today.

At the request of the Hyde Park Neighborhood Council, Al Neyer Inc. and Lantrust Real Estate officials will explain the Michigan Terrace project. The meeting is at 7:30 p.m. at Richards Industries, 3170 Wasson Road.

The building has been controversial since first proposed last year for Erie and Michigan avenues on the site of a vacant gas station. At 75 feet tall, it would be the highest building in the square.

Original plans called for 11 high-end condos, offices and retail with two underground levels of parking with the entrance off Michigan.

But after residents complained and an adjacent neighbor filed an appeal with the city on the building's zoning approval, developers changed the plans. Now, offices and one level of parking have been scrapped. The garage entrance also now will face Erie, the main boulevard along the square.

Last week, the Hyde Park Neighborhood Council voted against the changes.

In an e-mail to the community, the council underscores safety and aesthetic issues.

"The board is particularly concerned with the visual impact of eliminating storefront windows and adding a garage entrance/exit (about 20 feet wide) along Erie Avenue, the safety issues of having cars going in and out over a busy sidewalk that is used by schoolchildren ...," the e-mail reads.

Al Neyer officials say the changes were made to appease residents who had parking, traffic and other concerns. They also have tiered the upper two levels of the building.

Future revisions haven't been ruled out, said Neyer spokeswoman Gail Paul.

"It's not final," she said. "We are trying to listen to everyone and take all considerations. We believe in the integrity of the design and its potential as a future landmark."

An appeal on the project is scheduled Monday before the Cincinnati Board of Zoning Appeals.

Residents can speak with developers of Michigan Terrace tonight about plans for the six-story building on Hyde Park Square.The 7:30 meeting will be at Richards Industries, 3170 Wasson Road.

E-mail jedwards@enquirer.com.