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Town of Reading
Meeting Minutes
Board - Committee - Commission - Council:
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F 0 W N CLERK
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Community Planning and Development Commission 2018 -MAR 14 -PM 1:'48
Date: 2018-01-08 Time: 7:30 PM
Building: Reading Town Hall Location: Selectmen Meeting Room
Address: 16 Lowell Street Session: Open Session
Purpose: General Business Version:
Attendees: Members - Present:
Chair Nick Safina, John Weston, Rachel Hitch
Tony D'Arezzo, Associate
Members - Not Present:
Dave Tuttle, Karen Goncalves-Dolan
Others Present:
Assistant Town Manager Jean Delios, Community Development Director Julie
Mercier, Paul McGonagle, Chris Latham, Prareem Limbarg, Jennifer Killeen
Minutes Respectfully Submitted 'By:
Topics of Discussion:
Chairman Nick Safina called the meeting to order at 7:33 p.m.
Continued Public Hearing, Site Plan Review
230 faka 218) Ash Street, Reading Municipal Light Department
Paul McGonagle and Drew Garvin were present on behalf of the Application.
Mr. Drew Garvin from Meridian Associates introduced Paul McGonagle the RMLD Facilities
Manager. Mr. Garvin provided an overview of the proposed project and changes to the
plans since the meeting in November. The proposal is for one-way circulation off of Ash
Street intothe customer parking area. Two public EV charging stations are proposed facing
the old substation building. The RMLD facility and employee parking will stay the same.
Mr. Garvin explained the drainage design. He stated that the proposed design will consist of
one catch basin with an underground. infiltration bed and overflow to the Town system,
which will significantly reduce the flow.
Mr. Garvin noted that the two existing handicap parking spaces will be maintained and a
new walkway will be added to tie into the existing walkway. This will provide a safe path
from the handicap parking spaces to the main building entrance -The proposal includes the
planting of a couple of Red Maple trees in the grassed area along the Ash Street frontage.
Community Development Director Julie Mercier clarified that the plan shown in the
presentation is different from the one the Commission received in their packet. Mr. Garvin
confirmed that the plans were updated based on feedback from the Town Engineer. Specific
changes included a slight relocation of the catch basin and the addition of a gutter -mouth
curb. He noted that the Engineering Division is satisfied with the new layout but would like'a
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a second crosswalk. He explained that the second crosswalk is not proposed because it is
not where RLMD wants to direct the pedestrian flow, as it would lead to a private employee
entrance/exit.
Mr. Garvin pointed out that the historic substation building is currently not being used. The
proposal is to add ramps and removable bollards in front of the existing loading dock to
'leave it open for,futur..e use.
Mr. D'Arezzo asked about the Ione handicap parking space and how a patron who parked in
it would get across the street. Mr. Garvin noted that the space is meant for employees. Mr.
McGonagleadded that currently there are no employees in a wheelchair, but there are
employees with handicap placards who are fairly mobile. Mr. McGonagle commented that.
the Ione handicap parking space location does not make sense, and suggested moving it to
the other end of the parking area where there is access to crosswalks, ramps and building
entrances. Mr. Garvin agreed and Mr. Safina noted that a condition would be added to the
Decision that this space be relocated and restriped.
Mr. D'Arezzo asked what will prevent glare from the vehicle headlights into the residences
across the street. Mr. Garvin replied that the parking lot is not meant to be utilized at night.
Mr. D'Arezzo pointed out that there are night meetings held at the RMLD. Mr. McGonagle
confirmed that on average once a month there are meetings. Mr. Garvin said he will add a
row of evergreen shrubs along the front of the property at a height that will. block lights.
Assistant Town Manager Jean Delios asked about the caliper of the proposed Red Maple
trees. Mr. Garvin said the caliper of the trees is not specified but will likely be 2-3". Ms.
Delios noted that she requested the caliper to be the same as the trees approved for the
commercial plaza (Linear Retail) on Main and Ash Streets. Mr. McGonagle replied that the
landscaping still needs to be designed, and that ToWn approval will be sought before plants
are installed.
Mr. Garvin said he will provide a revised plan calling out the changes. Ms. Mercier clarified
that the changes will be noted in conditions added to the Decision.
Mr. Safina opened the hearing to public comment. There was none.
Mr. Weston made a motion to close the public hearing. The motion was seconded by Ms.
Hitch and approved with a 3-0-1 vote (Mr. D'Arezzo abstained).
Mr. Weston made a motion to approve the waivers. The motion was seconded by Ms. Hitch
and approved with a 3-0-1 vote (Mr. D'Arezzo abstained).
Mr.- Weston made a motion to approve the Site Plan as amended. The motion was seconded
by Ms. Hitch and approved with a 3-0-1 vote (Mr. D'Arezzo abstained).
Minor Modification, Site Plan Review
258-262 Main Street, Readina CRE Ventures LLC
Chris Latham, Saverio'Fulciniti, Praveen .Limbachiya and Tim Williams were present on
behalf of the Application.
Mr. Tim Williams of Allen & Major Associates introduced himself and said the Applicant is
requesting a Minor Modification to the approved Site Plan. He informed the Commission that
his company is not the original Engineer of Record. Allen & Major was retained since the
original approval, and is workingto receive. approval from the Massachusetts Department of
Transportation (MassDOT) for the two curb cuts on Main Street. The scope of work for Allen
& Major increased when MassDOT expressed concerns with unmitigated runoff from the site
onto Main Street. As such, Allen & Major redesigned the site with the following minor
modifications:
Drainage structures and infiltration systems enlarged to allow more infiltration;
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• Site regraded and retaining walls along site perimeter eliminated;
• Pervious area increased by —1,000 square feet;
• Dumpster pad shifted to allow for transformer to be relocated (approved by RMLD);
• Additional utilities provided to the site - working with RMLD to move light pole and
will coordinate with MassDOT to bring gas to the building;
• Parking lots adjusted slightly with some spaces moved to function better;
• Bike rack relocated to in front of the building; and
• Direct connection provided from Main Street sidewalk to site sidewalk with ADA
ramp.
Mr. Williams noted some aspects that will not change with the new design:
• Building height and square footage;
• Number of parking spaces;
• Light pole spacing;
• Outdoor tables and benches at rear of property;
• Location of snow storage area; and
• Location of handicap parking spaces.
Mr. Williams. concluded by noting that the Engineering Division has reviewed the plan and
indicated that the proposed changes present a more favorable design than the previous site
plan.
Mr. Weston asked for further explanation regarding how the site grading allowed the
retaining walls to be eliminated. Mr. Williams explained that the curb line was pulled in and
graded 2:1 to top of curb.
Mr. Weston commented that on the prior plan the retaining walls were at bumper height
and the Commission discussed the functionality of maneuvering into and out of the spaces.
He questioned whether the parking spaces at the end of the northern lot would be
functional. Mr. Williams responded that a small bump out was added to allow vehicles to
back out into the 24" drive aisle, which is a common condition. Mr. Safina asked if the
vehicle would have to make more than one movement. Mr. Williams replied that this type of
parking lot circulation is utilized all the time; a vehicle should be able tomake it fine. Mr.
Safina noted that without the retaining wall, a vehicle bumper will be able to overhang the
curb, which will ultimately allow a bit more room for turning movements. Mr. Weston agreed
with this assessment.
Mr. Safina asked how a trash truck.will access the dumpster. Mr. Williams explained that a K
turn will likely be required to access the dumpster, and stated that he is not sure if a roll out
tote or dumpster will be utilized. He noted that the previous approved plan required a
similar movement for the trash truck. Mr. Safina replied that several movements will be
required and expressed that perhaps someone should look at the turn radius. Mr. Weston
opined that with two 24' drive aisles, a driver should be able to figure it out.
Mr. Safina opened the meeting to public comment.
Mr. Shawn Goldstein of 10 Pinevale Avenue commented that the retaining wall protected the
abutters from noise. Mr. Williams replied that the retaining wall on that side of the property
was only going to be a foot tall, but that the 8' screened fence, which is still proposed, will
do more to block lights and noise. Mr. Safina explained that the retaining wall would not
have prevented noise. The grade increase will help protect the abutters from vehicles.
Mr. Goldstein asked for further explanation on the drainage. Mr. Williams explained that all
drainage will be managed on site.
Mr. Goldstein asked how to interpret what will happen to the trees shown on the plan. Mr.
Williams replied that if an existing tree does not impact the development then the tree will
remain. Mr. Safina stated that tree removal was agreed upon during the prior approval
process. Mr. Goldstein said the owner previously stated he would try not to remove trees.
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Mr. Safina explained that any trees that are within the development area will need to come
down, but that all tree removal will be limited to the project site. He suggested that Mr.
Goldstein keep in contact with the developer throughout construction.
Mr. Mike Farrell of 2 Pinevale Avenue explained where his and his wife Lynn's property is
located. He said that his property is several feet above grade and asked what would happen
to his wall once the retaining wall is removed. Mr. Weston explained that the wall will be
replaced with a 2:1 slope, so the elevation will not change, it will just be sloped instead of
walled. Mr. Farrell asked what would stop a vehicle from hitting his wall. Mr. Williams said
the wall in question belongs to the Applicant. Mr. Farrell agreed. Mr. Williams explained that
the wall will remain, with an 8' fence, and then there will be a-2-1/2' buffer strip, and then
the parking area. Mr. Safina sketched this on the white board and explained that the wall
will be further away than what was previously proposed. There is a curb and sloping land up
to the wall, with a fence for privacy.
Mr. Farrell asked if the changes to the parking lot result in a loss of parking spaces. Mr.
Williams stated that the number of proposed parking spaces is the same, but the parking lot
was reconfigured. Mr. Safina commented that better engineering makes for better plans.
Ms. Mercier asked if the building was shifted slightly. Mr. Williams confirmed the building
was shifted slightly, and a walkway removed on the south'side. Mr. Safina added that the
aisle width is generous and the parking spaces are the correct size.
Ms. Jennifer Killeen of 12 Pinevale Avenue commented that the 8' screening fence was
supposed to extend all along the northern property line. Ms. Delios added that it was a
condition in the original Site Plan Decision. Ms. Mercier read the condition out loud, and
noted that the Applicant is bound by the Decision, and that the Town will verify that all the
conditions have been satisfied when the Applicant comes in for permits. Mr. Safina
requested that this condition be reiterated in the Decision for the Minor Modification.
Ms. Killeen expressed concerns with heavy smokers using the seating area. She noted that
the seating area was moved slightly away from the adjacent properties, but asked how it
would be handled if it becomes a nuisance to neighbors. Mr. Safina discussed what the
Town could do about.smoking on a commercial property. Ms. Delios suggested working with
the property management company. Mr. Safina recommended Ms. Killeen first contact the
building owner if smoking becomes offensive, and then come to the Town if the situation is
not addressed. Ms. Delios said the Health Division might be able to help. Ms. Killeen said
her concern is that the seating area will become a smoking area. Mr. Safina told her to
speak up if it becomes a problem.
Mr. Williams informed the Commission that the intent is to file an 81X Plan instead of an
ANR to merge the two parcels. Ms. Mercier agreed to add language to the Decision.
Ms. Killeen asked about the location of snow storage and whether it was accounted for in
the drainage calculations. Mr. Williams said it is proposed in the same location -as previously
approved, and that it was calculated in the design. Ms. Killeen asked if abutting properties
were considered in the drainage plan. Mr. Williams confirmed that abutting properties were
considered and that the drainage analysis shows a reduction in runoff.
Mr. Goldstein asked about the corner of the 'site where the property jogs. Mr. Williams
replied that the area was formerly the transformer location and will be landscaped.
Ms. Delios asked for a construction timeframe. Mr. Williams responded that the Applicant is
waiting for curb cut approval from MassDOT and for the pavement season to resume. Ms.
Farrell asked if the abutters will be notified when the construction will begin, as she would
like to notify her renters. Ms. Delios explained the process. Mr. Safina suggested that the
Applicant send out a courtesy notice. Mr. Fulciniti agreed to contact Ms. Farrell directly.
Mr. Weston stated that the original Decision had a requirement that the outdoor seating
area be no less than 50' from the northerly property line, which is almost at the edge of the
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parking lot. Mr. Williams agreed that the seating area will need to be relocated on the plans.
He added that all the conditions of the Decisions will be addressed in the permit plans.
Mr. Goldstein asked if construction would start in the spring. Mr. Williams said the building
permit application needs to be filed with the Town, and that other permits may be needed
as well. Ms. Mercier commented that the property is under an acre, so a NPDES permit is
not required. She agreed to.forward the Decision to Mr: Goldstein, if he provided an email
on the sign -in sheet.
Mr. Weston made a motion to close the public hearing. The motion was seconded by Ms.
Hitch and approved with a 4-0-0 vote.
Mr. Safina reviewed the amendments to the Decision. He asked if the change to how the
parcels are merged will affect the MassDOT process. Attorney Chris Latham explained that
the 81X plan is more appropriate than an ANR plan for merging lots.
Mr. Weston made a motion .to approve the Minor Modification as amended. The motion was
seconded by Ms. Hitch and approved with a 4-0-0 vote.
Minor Amendment, PUD Special Permit
Johnson Woods, O. Bradley Latham on behalf of Ted Moore
There was no one present on behalf of the Application.
Mr. Safina read the request from Attorney O. Bradley Latham, on behalf of Applicant Ted
Moore, to continue discussion of the Minor Amendment to the PUD Special Permit for
Johnson Woods to the next regular meeting.
Mr. Weston made a motion to continue the Minor Amendment to the PUD Special Permit for
Johnson Woods until January 22, 2018 at 8:00 PM. The motion was seconded by Ms. Hitch
and approved with a 3-0-0 vote (Mr. D'Arezzo recused himself).
Continued Public Hearing, 40R Plan Review
467 Main Street- (former Sunoco station), Boahos Properties LLC
Brian McGrail, Ray Boghos, Rob Del Savio, Sarah Rinehart, Dave Giangrande and Tom
Bertulis were present on, behalf of the Application.
Mr. Safina stated that the Commission has not had a chance to review the most recent
revised parking and traffic plans.
Attorney Brian McGrail apologized for the late submittal of plans, and asked the Commission
to allow the presentation to proceed in order to gather initial feedback.
Architect Rob Del Savio of EMBARC Studio handed out revised plans and explained the
changes:
• Garage door pushed into property to allow for better cone of vision;
• Two parking spaces, provided outside of garage which could be used for retail;
• Reconfigured parking and circulation loop through the garage;
• Increased parking space count by two for a total count of 39
• Compact space ratio decreased to 31%;
• Trash room relocated for better access,, management will take out trash;
• Provisions for kitchen exhaust added to.retail spaces;
• Units are better sized for 1 -bedroom and 2 -bedroom configurations;
• Plans now show 15 1 -bedroom and 16 2 -bedroom units;
• Removed 4,000 square feet total across levels 2, 3 and 4;
• Incorporated recessed balconies on rear of building;
• Clubhouse moved to side with small exterior roof deck;
• Roof deck on top level has furnishings and planters;
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• Rooftop mechanicals screened with 4' wall;
• Building pushed further back, roof deck not visible from ground;
• Detailing on cornice line on corner made more dominant;
• Clapboard siding, awnings and brick proposed;
• Articulation added to the cornice line at the rear;
• Brick detailing same as before; and a
• Snow melt system added under exposed portion of garage.
Mr. Del Savio then showed a photo montage down Main Street.
Developer Ray Boghos of Boghos Properties LLC explained that he spoke with different
companies and that he is proposing a snow melt system underneath all the paved areas in
the garage that are exposed to the sky. He explained that the system will be under the
concrete layer, and will be made up of a 3=4" sand base with a mesh wiring overlay. He
stated that there is no risk of fire, and that it takes approximately 80.4 kW per hour to
operate. He noted that it turns on before it snows so no snow collects in the garage, and
that it shuts off automatically.
Mr. Boghos also explained the trash removal plan. The management company can either
wheel the trash/recycling barrels into the loading area for pickup in the garage, or wheel
them out to Main Street. There will not be a compactor. It will be picked up 3 days a week
at non peak hours. The building HVAC will be balanced to mitigate smells.
Traffic Engineer Tom 'Bertulis of Design Consultants LLC stated that the parking spaces
along Main Street could be increased from two to three, if the Town wishes.
Mr. Boghas reviewed the turning movements for the tight parking spaces in the garage. Ms.
Mercier asked about the parallel parking space movements. Mr. Weston suggested that the
owner of a large vehicle or truck would probably prefer that space as it is longer than most.
Mr. Bertulis provided the old and new trip distribution side-by-side. He explained that at the
request -of the Commission, he ran the analysis as if all vehicles in the AM peak exiting the
site (73%) turned left onto Green Street and left onto Main Street. Similarly, he assumed all
vehicles in the PM peak entering the site (60%) turned left onto Green Street from Main
Street. He said there were no major changes between scenarios and the Level of Service did
not change. Ms. Mercier asked where 27% entering into site in AM was derived. Mr. Bertulis
said it came directly from the ITE Trip Generation. Manual. Mr. Safina noted that these are
the same metrics used for all projects the. Commission reviews. Mr. Weston explained that
across the.nation these are the numbers used by the industry, but they are based on a
relatively small sample of actual developments. The manual is typically not updated until
the date is deemed egregiously out-of-date. He concluded, however, that when you dig into
what the data means, it actually does make sense. Mr. Bertulis confirmed that 90 studies
were used to generate trip generation data for a mixed-use building such as this one.
Mr. Weston said his concern is queue length exiting and entering the site, and the delay this
will create. He noted that moving the garage door will help the situation. Mr. Boghos said
the queue space outside of the garage is long enough for two vehicles. Mr. Weston said the
biggest concern is cars traveling south on Main Street and turning left onto Green Street.
He noted that it is not up to the Applicant to come up with a solution, and that this project
may or may not contribute to the problem. Mr. Bertulis explained that the queue only occurs
5% of the time during the peak periods. Ms. Mercier asked about the length of the queue.
Mr. Bertulis explained that the queue is 400' long but only two cars are added to it under
the assumption that all traffic exits left. Mr. Safina opined that this situation is not adding
much. Mr. Weston said the no -build condition should be compared to the worst case
scenario condition. Mr. Boghos suggested that the Town change the traffic light signals at
the Main/Washington intersection. Mr. Safina noted that vehicles will back up to the train
tracks. Ms. Hitch suggested requiring a right -turn only out of the site at peak times of the
day. Mr. Weston commented that people will self -correct if they cannot get out of the
garage and will go right to find alternate solutions.
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Mr. D'Arezzo noted that the sight line report says a.minimum of 170'should be provided but
the proposal is 46' due to the short distance to the corner. He asked whether this was
accounted for in the report. Mr. Bertulis said vehicles will move at low speeds when turning
the corner. Mr. D'Arezzo asked what sight line is required for the posted speed. Mr. Safina
said the wide curb will, calm the traffic as well.
Mr. D'Arezzo asked if the turning movements on the plan are hand drawn or computer
generated. Mr. Bertulis confirmed that AutoTurn and AutoCad were utilized. Mr. D'Arezzo
noted that the vehicle movement entering the site appears to cross into the other lane, and
that this will be the case with every car entering the site. Mr. Boghos said this maneuver
can be reviewed. Mr. Weston pointed out that the lane at the garage door is 18' wide and
agreed that cars will just be able to fit by each other. He commented that with a 39 -car
garage, passing probably will not occur too much.
Mr. D'Arezzo questioned if the trash truck will wait for the management company to bring
the trash out, or whether the trash will be waiting on the street to be picked up. Mr. Boghos
said management will bring it out before the trash truck arrives.
Mr. Safina complimented the rendering and made a few suggestions to improve the design
of the elevations.
Ms. Mercier asked for clarification on the dimensions of the compact and regular parking
spaces.
Mr. Safina opened the hearing to public comment. There was none.
Ms. Hitch commented that she is happy with the proposal for three parking spaces along
Main Street, but is nervous the retail will require additional parking spaces to activate the
area. There is no place for people to go if there is no parking. Mr. Boghos said the two -
parking spaces outside the garage are proposed to help relieve this concern. Ms. Mercier
noted that the two spaces are not really visible to the public and probably won't be used by
retail patrons. Mr. Safina said that the two parking spaces could be for retail manager
parking. Mr. Weston commented that the Town should not get into management of parking
spaces on private sites. Mr. Boghos said he will see what the demand is before making a
decision. Ms. Hitch suggested the spots could be utilized by Zip Car.
Ms. Hitch commented that balconies on Main Street have the potential to become an
eyesore. Mr. Boghos said buildings with larger windows have a similar effect as they enable
people to see into private spaces. He opined that at least the balconies provide a visual
buffer, and suggested adding language to the lease restricting tenants from hanging items
on the balconies.
Ms. Mercier noted that since staff have not had a chance to review the new plans, the
Application will need to be continued to another meeting. She said that the January -22nd
agenda is full and that February 12th would be better. Mr. McGrail requested the public
hearing be continued to January 22nd at this time and agreed to seek additional time from
the seller'in order to further continue the hearing to February 12th. Ms. Mercier and the
Commission agreed to this approach.
Mr. Weston made a motion to -continue the public hearing to January 22, 2018 at 9:00 PM.
The motion was seconded by Ms. Hitch and approved with a 3-0-1 vote (Mr. D'Arezzo
abstained).
Page 1-7
Plannina Updates and Other Tonics
2018 ZBL Amendments, Section 6.0: Intensity Regulations
Ms. Mercier stated that the public hearing for the 2018 ZBL Amendments is scheduled for
the next CPDC meeting. She noted that she has met with Mr. D'Arezzo a few times to draft
the Amendments, and apologized to the Commission for the short period of time for review.
Mr. Safina said he reviewed the Amendments, and said they are very clear and well done
but hard to visualize without diagrams. It is hard to know what the spinoff impacts to other
properties might be. He agreed that information should be put in footnotes in the Table.
Ms. Hitch noted that it is hard to predict the consequences of the zoning and the questions
that will be raised at Town Meeting. She.asked how the Amendments will be presented at
Town Meeting. Mr. Safina explained the process. He opined that Town Meeting will not
understand the changes and will rely on the Commission for an explanation.
Ms. Delios suggested creating a `translation guide' similar to what was done for the large
2014 zoning update project. Mr. D'Arezzo agreed to start working on this.
Ms. Hitch said that it will be important to note where the language hasn't changed but has
simply been moved for clarification. Ms. Mercier noted that many things were moved into
the Table so that people only need to look in one place. Ms. Hitch suggested we view these
things as "changes" in order to predict what questions might be asked.
Ms. Mercier pointed out the properties along Ash Street that abut the industrial zone. She
noted that this area has a significant grade change. Mr. D'Arezzo confirmed the residential
properties are on top of the hill and look down to the industrial properties. Mr. Safina opined
that map, location and grade change will be critical to present to Town Meeting.
Ms. Mercier suggested relaxing the regulations in areas where there are industrial properties
that 'are landlocked by other industrial properties or share lot lines with other industrial
properties.
Ms. Mercier asked for clarification on an email received from Mr. D'Arezzo. Mr. D'Arezzo
explained that the Town does not have good buffers or transitions from one zoning district
to another. He would like to have a bigger buffer. Ms. Mercier asked if Mr. D'Arezzo counts
the street as a buffer. Mr. Safina opined that the street, setback, and.landscaping should all
be considered part of the buffer. Ms. Mercier explained the difference between direct
adjacency and street line.
Mr. Weston asked if Section 6.2 should state which districts do not allow more than one
building per lot. He asked if the proposed changes make it vaguer. Mr. Safina said he
understood the change. Mr. Weston said his concern is the de -emphasis.
Mr. Weston asked about the 84' hotel/motel requirement in the Industrial District. Ms.
Mercier asked if this was a hold -over from Business C and if it should be removed. Mr.
Safina said the properties in the Industrial District cast a shadow for the most part away
from the residential properties, but he agreed there should be language about shadows on
residential properties. Ms. Mercier said her concern is the specificity of the language. Ms.
Delios said. it could be left general in order to be addressed on a site specific basis through
the Site Plan Review process. Mr. Safina agreed. Ms. Mercier explained the other changes.
Mr. Safina said most hotels prefer a drop off loop and parking out front.
Discussion of Downtown Parking
Ms. Delios reminded the Commission that discussions of the Housing Production Plan
renewal, Wayfinding/Branding designs, and downtown parking are on the Board of
Selectmen agenda for January 23,d
Regarding downtown parking, Ms. Delios acknowledged the grant application that Ms.
Mercier wrote for technical assistance with downtown parking. MAPC did not award the
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grant to the Town, fearing that the stated scope exceeded their technical expertise. Ms.
Delios also mentioned that former Economic Development Director Andrew Corona started'.
discussions with the business community and reached out to Nelson Nygaard, the consulting
firm that prepared the Town's 2009 Parking Study, for an estimate to update the study. The
Town is still waiting to hear from Nelson Nygaard about this. Conversations with the
businesses revealed the importance of a comprehensive parking system and downtown
signage. The first phase of the Wayfinding/Branding project will focus on strategic locations'
for downtown parking signage:
Mr. Weston opined that the Town needs to figure out. which parking needs are not being
met. There are needs that are met but some components that are not. He cautioned that
the plan should consider the future; today's needs might not be the same as needs 5 years
from now. Ms. Delios mentioned the CrossTown Connect initiative started in the Town of
Acton, which provides remote commuter parking and a shuttle to the commuter rail station.
Ms. Mercier said she has discussed a pilot project for Reading, and potentially neighboring
towns, modeled after this with MAPC. Mr. Weston noted that there are different levels of
need related to this. Mr. Safina asked if the amount of Town parking stickers sold has
decreased since the fee increased. He opined that developments that do not seek shared
parking arrangements, or do not provide the parking they need on their.own sites, should
be precluded from the resident Town parking sticker program.
Ms. Hitch suggested that the Town hire a new Economic Development Director with
parking/transportation experience. The Commission discussed having downtown parking be
a graduate student project.
Mr. Weston said that there are pieces of the Nelson Nygaard study that could be utilized,
and suggested that we need more than just the business owners' input. Ms. Mercier
suggested sending out a survey in a Town -wide mailing to solicit feedback from a wider
range of stakeholders.
Minutes of September 11, 2017 - Revision ,
Ms. Mercier explained that a resident pointed out an error with regards to the name of an
abutter who spoke at the meeting.
Mr. Weston made a motion to amend the previously approved September -11, 2017 minutes.
The motion was seconded by Ms. Hitch and approved with a 4-0-0 vote.
Minutes of November 6, 2017
Mr. Weston made a motion to approve the November 6, 2017 minutes as amended. The
motion was seconded by Ms. Hitch and approved with a 4-0-0 vote.
Minutes of December 11, 2017
Mr. Weston made a motion to approve the December 11, 2017 minutes. The motion was
seconded by Ms. Hitch and approved with a 4-0-0 vote.
Mr. Safina made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 10:30 PM. The motion was
seconded by Ms. Hitch and approved with a 4-0-0 vote.
Documents reviewed at the meeting:
CPDC Agenda 1/8/18
CPDC Minutes 11/6/17
CPDC Minutes 12/11/17
CPDC Minutes 9/11/17
Potential ZBL Amendments for April 2018: Section 6.0 - Intensity Regulations
Johnson Woods - Continuance Request
RMLD Site Plan Review
a) Revised Narrative
b) Revised Site Plans - 12/27/17
Page 1 9
c) Revised Stormwater Report - 12/27/17
d) Memo from Engineering - 1/2/18
e) Draft Decision - 1/8/18
258-262 Main Street Minor Modification
a) Courtesy Meeting Notice
b) Application & Plans
c) Memo from Town Engineer - 12/19/17
d) Draft Decision - 1/8/18
467 Main Street 40R Development
a) Further Revised Plans presented at hearing 1/8/18
b) Revised Plans - submitted 1/4/18
c) Revised Traffic Study - January 2018
d) Autoturn Movements
e) Draft Decision - 1/8/18
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