It was a weighty meeting, as the Planning Board contemplated two proposals for lots that have been vacant for quite some time. The Bulfinch Group looked to modify their plan for the former Muzi property, and if you wonder what has been planned for the space that Ground Round used to occupy, you’ll want to check out the first case of the evening. Of course, further contemplation of Large House zoning also was on deck, and tonight the board went FAR. It’s going to be a notable November for the Planning Board!

Agenda:

1) Public Hearing: 1 First Avenue
One First Ave Realty Trust, Petitioner
Regarding request to construct a new 9,000 square foot retail building with space for up to 4 tenants, a patio area and a total of 36 parking spaces and associated utilities, stormwater, site amenities and landscaping.

2) Minutes

4) Discussion: 557 Highland Avenue
Robert Schlager – Project status update for former Muzi property.

5) Discussion of Large House Review Zoning Policy and Strategy:
• Core Policy Decisions: Review of LHRSC FAR visibility principles; FAR calculation criteria, structural inclusions, and target baselines for standard 10,000–12,000 sq. ft. lots.
• Zoning Strategy: Debate regulatory adjustments for outlier lots, including absolute size caps and lot-size-connected FAR/coverage thresholds.

6) Report from Planning Director and Board Members.