HomeMy WebLinkAbout2010-05-05-DAC-Letter
LDAC
EXINGTON ESIGN DVISORY OMMITTEE
May 25, 2010
To: Board of Appeals
Re: 65 Hayden Ave. – Cubist Pharmaceuticals
APS/DSDUP Submission
At its regular meeting on May 5, 2010 the DAC reviewed the submission package dated 13 April 2010
for the proposed vertical expansion to Cubist Pharmaceuticals. The Design Advisory Committee
recommends approval of this project subject to the following comments and recommendations.
1. Site:
DAC suggests adding additional planting approx. 36” in ht. on hillside to shield view of parked
vehicles at visitor parking area from proposed outdoor courtyard.
DAC noted that chain link fencing should be used for tree protection and installed at the drip
line of all trees to remain including the wooded area along entry drive.
DAC suggested further evaluation of existing plant understory in the wooded area along the
entry drive and suggested the native plants either be kept as aprt of the planting design or
transplanted to a sustainable environment on-site.
DAC suggested the design team consider adding some additional landscape accent lighting not
only for aesthetic purposes but to also aid in way-finding and pedestrian safety.
DAC suggested using a different sign installation solution then proposed for the handicap signs.
DAC suggested using a natural stone solution for the site retaining walls, something other then
the precast segmental wall units proposed.
DAC encouraged the project team to use more native plants in the planting palette referencing
the Plant Materials Guide for Lexington, MA, 2010 Edition.
DAC noted that the soil conditions should be improved in the proposed outdoor courtyard
space. Compaction reduced and soil composition enhanced particularly in the proposed tree
pits.
Respectfully submitted,
Timothy D. Lee, ASLA, Chairman
Lexington Design Advisory Committee
Cc: Board of Selectmen