The Land Use Committee voted to hold the following (read the report and watch the meeting video):
- Northland Pattern District LLC’s request to amend Special Permit #426-18 at 55 Tower Road (7-0) to make various changes, including the elimination of five buildings, conversion of office space to residential use, an increase in residential units, and modifications to building designs and parking. Held to continue the public hearing.
A total of 22 people spoke at the public hearing on a mix of issues: concerns about less parking, less office space, more traffic, desire for more housing, overall support for the project, and questions about the coming splash park.
During the discussion:
- Deputy Director of Planning and Development Jennifer Caira discussed the peer-review process and adjustments made based on feedback regarding the project’s impact on office and lab space demand in the region.
- Tom Dworetsky of Camoin Associates analyzed the declining demand for office space due to shifts towards hybrid/remote work models, and the economic impact of the proposed amendments, predicting a 27% lower tax revenue from the changes.
- Dennis Flynn of BETA presented a transportation peer review, noting a reduction in generated trips and adjustments to the site’s parking strategy, including considerations for bicycle recharging stations.
- Janet Bernardo from Horsley Witten Group confirmed that the modified design plans are in compliance with previously approved stormwater management systems.
See Project Documents.
Present: Councilors Kelley (Chair), Block, Farrell, Laredo, Leary, Lobovits, and Lucas
Absent: Councilor Downs
Also Present: Councilors Albright, Getz, Greenberg, Humphry, Lipof, Malakie, Oliver, and Wright
City Staff Present: Assistant City Solicitor Jonah Temple, Deputy Director of Planning Jennifer Caira, Economic Development Director John Sisson