pages: PlanningBoard/2005-02-14.pdf, 9
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PlanningBoard | 2005-02-14 | 9 | speak. The public hearing was closed for Board discussion. Ms. McNamara inquired how many seats the theater would have; Ms. Little replied that the main auditorium would seat 450 people, and that it would not always be filled; it would be able to accommodate blockbuster films if needed. She believed that the historic feel of the theater would be evoked through the new design. She described the refinishing and stabilizing processes planned for the renovation; the estimated cost for the renovation of the historic theater was $5.1-5.2 million for construction, plus associated soft costs of up to $2 million; these figures do not include the cost of acquisition; the new construction costs were not included in this estimate. President Cunningham inquired about the seismic upgrades; Ms. Little replied that ARG had integrated the upgrades in such a way that it would not detract from the design. In response to an inquiry by Vice President Cook, Ms. Little replied that there was considerable original fabric inside the theater; she described the original finishes and previous renovations. In response to an inquiry by Ms. Mariani, Ms. Little confirmed that the study session was to focus on the exterior of the building. Ms. Mariani supported Mr. Buckley's input, particularly the removal of the big box and emphasizing the vertical elements. Vice President Cook wished to ensure that there was easy pedestrian access from the garage towards the library. Mr. Stanton stated that the garage was planned to be expandable should Long's become available to the City; the parking would then be available in the center of the block; a second lobby with a separate elevator and staircase would enable people to exit at the center of the block. Ms. McNamara expressed concern about traffic impacts on the narrow street and the parking garage exits; Ms. Little noted that their environmental impact studies would address those concerns. Vice President Cook expressed concern about the blank exterior walls. Regarding public art, Ms. Little noted that the historic theater itself would be an art piece; she described the "phantom gallery" program, in which community artists rotate displays of their artwork in a single venue. Vice President Cook believed the north side of the building would be a good location for a mural or similar art piece. Ms. Little noted that staff was concerned about a mural because the project may be expanded and the mural would be blocked. President Cunningham believed the blank wall should have some modulation. Vice President Cook did not object to the horizontal nature of the new theater; she liked the idea of the interior public space along Central Avenue being part of the street scene; she did not like the large square edifice on the corner. Mr. Stanton suggested that the Board direct the developer's team Planning Board Minutes Page 9 February 14, 2005 | PlanningBoard/2005-02-14.pdf |