HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-05-06-DAC-min
LDAC
EXINGTONESIGNDVISORYOMMITTEE
Meeting Minutes:
May 6, 2008
Present:
Colin Smith (Chair), Alenka Slezak, Timothy Lee, Ginna Johnson, Betsy Whitman, John Frey
Scribe:
Colin Smith
Call to Order:
The Meeting was called to Order at 7:30PM.
Approvals:
March 4, 2008 Minutes
Presentations/Review:
Watertown Savings Bank- Waltham Street
The overall size and proportions of the sign look good. Applicant to clarify type of brick to be
used, should match building brick. Internal illumination not permitted, so if lighting is needed
then applicant shall submit fixture type, locations and cut sheets for review. Additionally, there
was discussion about the need for the band containing “Lexington” and the need for that level of
content.
440 Bedford Street – Proposed Margaritas Restaurant
Site Plan:
The committee found the placement of the new restaurant and related site modifications and
additions to be suitable as there is no further encroachment towards the wetland along the south
property line and, for the most part, the project is working within the existing footprint. The
committee would prefer that the green space along Bedford Street not be reduced by new parking
but understand the existing site conditions and that parking requirements need to be met. If there
is a way to reduce the impact the applicant should explore those options. The committee would
like to see an upgrade from concrete and bituminous curbing to granite curbing. The committee
would like to see additional information for all proposed exterior lighting fixtures.
Building:
The applicant needs to submit more complete building drawings for review by the DAC. The
façade and awning colors need to be toned down and reviewed in greater detail. The building
elevations do not match the building footprint and the height of the structure is not noted. There
were many questions that went unanswered because the applicant was not present and
information incomplete.
Landscape:
The committee would like the trees over 4” in caliper size being removed to be replaced or
transplanted on-site as part of the new planting installation. We encourage the applicant to use
native plant material wherever possible especially within wetland buffer zones. It was also
suggested that an evergreen hedge at least 3’ in height be installed along the parking lot edge
facing Bedford Street to block headlights shining towards the adjacent residential neighborhood
along Bedford Street. We suggest submitting the final landscape/planting plan for review by the
DAC.
Signage:
No internal signage illumination is allowed. Only one facade mounted sign is permitted,
secondary façade signs are only permitted if they face primary parking and adjacent streets, this is
not the case. The proposed freestanding pylon sign as currently design is unacceptable. Pylon
signs are not common in Lexington and set a bad precedent. The DAC strongly oppose the use of
this type of sign. The DAC recommend that the applicant consider a lower (5’-0” high)
freestanding sign similar to that found along Hartwell Ave. and other locations around town.
The Design Advisory Committee recommends this project be approved with the comments
outlined above.
Other Business:
Discussed installation of white reflective roof at Starwood Hotel.
Adjournment:
The meeting was adjourned at approximately 9:30PM.
Next Meeting:
Scheduled for Tuesday June 3, 2008 @ 7:30PM
Cc: Board of Selectmen
Wendy Manz, Planning Board Liaison