HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005-10-13-DAC-min
DAC
ESIGN DVISORY OMMITTEE
TOWN OF LEXINGTON
Meeting Minutes:
October 13, 2005
Present:
Colin Smith (Chair), Bruce Creager, John Frey, Bahig Kaldas, Alenka Slezak, Betsy Whitman,
Greg Zurlo
Scribe:
Greg Zurlo
Call to Order:
The special meeting was called to order at 7:30PM by Colin Smith
Presentations/Review:
Battle Green Inn Redevelopment
This Special Meeting was called by Chair Colin Smith at the requ
Company Architects for input from the DAC on the revised proposa
Battle Green property referenced by the developers as The Commons in Lexington Center.
Present from the development team was Erik Rhodin, Gwendolen Noyes, and Arthur Klipfel.
DAC members received plans and elevations of the project and a p
to the meeting via email. Distributed this evening was a cover
prevalent project revisions. Erik Rhodin led the presentation.
The following items were discussed:
1. On street and below grade parking layout.
2. Increased setback dimension along the East property line (adjacent to Cohoes lot).
3. Setback along the West (Waltham St) elevation was realigned to b
Windspeed and Vinny T buildings, which results in a wider sidewa
4. Along with the already proposed handicapped access at the primary residence entry on
Waltham Street, the Mass Ave entry has been revised for accessibility as well.
5. Reasoning for the Waltham St parking ramp entry and the issue of
It was explained by the presenters that although the original decision for the relocation of
the entry drive to Waltham Street was for more retail frontage on the Mass Ave. Through
the approval process this decision for the relocation has been s
studies. Other items discussed include:
a. The greater distance the new Waltham Street entry curb cut is compared to the
distance of the Mass Ave curb improves visibility
b. Sight lines are further improved by providing a shallower ramp s
transition slope is also shown allowing better visibility and improving pedestrian
safety.
c. The current Mass. Ave. driveway location presents numerous vehic
pedestrian safety issues (adjacent roads/driveways, crosswalk, 4 lanes of traffic &
sightlines)
d. Arthur Klipfel described a Ðtraffic mock-upÑ performed by their traffic consultant
that found short delay times turning into the Windspeed driveway
the notion traffic back up being minimal compared to a Mass Ave
6. The Chair and Committee concurred with the advantages of relocating the garage access
location.
7. Members of the Committee noted the elimination of the fourth flo
cornice lines, and gentler projection of upper story dormers, all of which improve the
overall scale of the project versus its preceding design.
8. The overall facade detail treatment was reduced and described by Bruce Creager as
being Ða more friendly neighbor.Ñ
9. John Frey showed plans of a trenched tree root planting detail ÐtreewayÑ that was used
around Depot Square and some discussion focused on seeking oppor
and other planting options into the project. The presenters agreed to review this detail
and its applicability to the Waltham Street sidewalk.
10. It was asked how and if sustainable strategies would be incorporated into the project.
The presenters explained it was common for their projects to incorporate these ideas. For
example, they select projects that are close to public transportation reducing traffic and
promoting walking or use of public transportation, like Lexpress. Erik Rhodin noted that
prefabricated wall construction techniques are being considered
qualities and the speed of construction for a busy town center.
The DAC responds positively to the preliminary design plans presented thus far. Final comments
from the Committee include a request to see developed details, color selection, and materials of
the building as the project moves forward. The Committee members unanimously support the
proposal as presented and the Chair has offered to provide a letter of support for publication in
the Lexington Minuteman.
Adjournment:
The meeting was adjourned at approximately 9:00PM.
Next Meeting:
Scheduled for Wed., November 2, 2005 @ 7:30PM.
Cc: Board of Selectmen
Planning Board