There will be no changes in the layout of the complex, however. Forty units will now be expanded into duplexes — two-story townhouses with two king-size bedrooms and two bathrooms. Those units will measure approximately 1,500 square feet, in contrast to about 940 square feet for the regular, single-story units.

Addressing some complaints from residents, Partrick said he agreed to install higher fencing and denser landscaping around the property. In one area of the property, the land is higher than that of surrounding homes, he said, which would make Dutchgate’s buildings seem more imposing. The site changes are being made to soften that impact, Partrick explained.

The town also approved another change. According to town spokeswoman Susie Trenkle-Pokalsky, children are now allowed to purchase a unit for their parents. “Previously, they could only be owner-occupied,” she said. Partrick said that this change was important because it will help families with estate planning.

A restriction was also added, prohibiting school-age children from living in the complex. There was a concern among residents who opposed the age change that it could result in an influx of students that local schools wouldn’t be able to handle.

Partrick said that, so far, no one had moved in with school-age children. However, with the change to 55, he said, he understands that the possibility is more likely, and was willing to add the restriction. Even without it, however, he did not expect couples with schoolchildren to move in. The units aren’t ideal for families, he said, and the development is targeted at empty-nesters looking to scale down from single-family homes.

Jeanne Greco Jacobs, president of the Valley Stream Central High School District Board of Education, said that no trustees expressed any concerns about the possible impact that the construction of Dutchgate would have on the school system. In fact, the board never even discussed it. “I think the likelihood of students going into a community that’s age-restricted is not likely,” she said. “It’s not attractive to families.”

In fact, Partrick said, his development is good for the schools. It adds tax revenue without adding extra students.