pages: PlanningBoard/2017-07-17.pdf, 6
This data as json
body | date | page | text | path |
---|---|---|---|---|
PlanningBoard | 2017-07-17 | 6 | Board Member Knox White said the application is not included and asked if they can discuss the merits of the project without the density bonus application. Staff Member Thomas said the requirement is to show that the 491 unit base project is feasible for the density bonus, but they are not asking for any waivers like some projects have. Board Member Knox White asked for clarification about the project's universal design requirements. Staff Member Thomas said that 80% of the project would be visitable. The 20% that are townhomes would not meet that standard. He said the draft ordinance on universal design requires 100% visitability, but allows for developers to apply for waivers for townhomes. Board Member Sullivan asked what data we have to show the impacts of TDM on the "substantial and unavoidable" traffic impacts. Staff Member Thomas said we can't build a new bridge and we can't say no to new housing. He said we have to be more efficient with our transportation space. He said we are working on increasing transit services. Board Member Mitchell said that 589 units, when compared with the size of the city, is a modest amount. He said he likes the revitalized Park St., even though it is hard to park there. He said he likes the flexibility in the plan, the access to the water, additional affordable housing, down payment assistance, and public art funds. He said he appreciates the mixed use of the site and is okay with the building heights in the plan. He said he would like to move forward tonight. Board Member Curtis said we might consider that 589 units is too many for the site. He said he is against the 90 foot height level. He said the parking is inadequate. He said he cannot vote for the project. Board Member Sullivan said she is opposed to the project as designed. She said the project is jam packed with units. She said she is disappointed in the universal design elements of the plan. She said she does not support the 90 foot tower. She said traffic and parking are issues and we should not build this many units. Board Member Zuppan said she thinks we are striking a good balance because people on both sides are unhappy with parts of the project. She said we should make sure there is access for vehicles with boat trailers. She said we should limit the number of compact parking spaces on the site. She said she liked the suggestion of making sure we have more two and three bedroom units. She said we should make sure that pets are allowed in these buildings. She said she would like the potential height waiver to only apply to the Approved Minutes July 17, 2017 Page 6 of 10 Planning Board Meeting | PlanningBoard/2017-07-17.pdf |