pages: PlanningBoard/2005-08-22.pdf, 18
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PlanningBoard | 2005-08-22 | 18 | her continuing concerns about the Center was the lack of pedestrian connections, as well as bicycle access. She believed that the pedestrian and bicycle environments in the center must change. She was concerned about the cumulative impacts of the piecemeal nature of the center. She believed a parking structure would not only break up the expanse of pavement in front of Mervyn's, and would also be more attractive if landscaped properly. Mr. Piziali noted that he would like to see this item come back before the Board in the form of a workshop before any action is taken. He was concerned about the large amount of square footage, and while he did not want retail leakage going off the Island, he did not want floods of people coming from off-Island to shop, either. Mr. Lynch noted that he agreed with the comments made by the other Board members. He would be interested in examining the environmental documents. He was interested to hear comments about a possible mixed use at the center. He would like to see a larger view of the City operation as a whole, from an economic development perspective, as well as other perspectives. He noted this was not a stand alone issue, and that it should be integrated into other commissions. Ms. Kohlstrand noted that she agreed with Vice President Cook's comments, and believed that scale was an important consideration. She noted that the safety of sidewalks and bicycle paths near Safeway were paramount. President Cunningham noted that some parts of the policy document fit with the Target store, and other parts are in opposition to what the community wants. The report acknowledged that the leakage data would present opportunities to bring retail solutions into the community. It also went on to say that it was up to the community and the private sector to decide what kind of retail should be included, as well as what type of retail did not fit the community character. He noted that Target did respond to the community needs, and are serious about providing a store that would fit in with the community; he applauded those efforts. He noted that other Target stores have demonstrated the company's willingness to buy into sustainability. He was very interested in possible traffic mitigations. He would like further insight into the impact that this store would have on the existing tenants in the community, particularly the smaller stores. Vice President Cook noted that she spoke with a woman who managed a small retail shop, who did not object to the Target store. The manager stated that she would shift the items in her inventory to carry what Target did not. President Cunningham recalled that Ms. Mariani requested a definition of a big box store, and agreed with Mr. Piziali's suggestion of holding a workshop. He recommended giving the matter more time before making a decision. Ms. Mariani inquired how the square footage increased from 90,000 to 145,000 square feet. She expressed concern about the direction the City is taking, given the approval of the Cineplex and the consideration of this Target store. She did not believe the addition of Planning Board Minutes Page 18 August 22, 2005 | PlanningBoard/2005-08-22.pdf |