The new building will incorporate ground-floor parking spaces to address the current lack of on-site parking. The plan also includes aggregating three contiguous lots and constructing a driveway to improve access. The applicant sought variances for the side yard setbacks and the aggregation of lots, which exceeded the two-lot limit set by the R1 District. The design received staff support, particularly for its contemporary aesthetic and the proposed reduction in required clearance height for the parking area from 12 feet to 10 feet.

During the presentation, the team highlighted their extensive community outreach efforts, including an online meeting attended by over 120 residents. The project aims to reduce traffic congestion caused by valet operations and to maintain the hotel’s room count at 105.

Community feedback was varied. Some residents expressed support, emphasizing the project’s potential to enhance the area and alleviate traffic issues. Gary Rug, representing B Isle residents, noted the positive collaboration with the project team and stated, “We think it’s ready to go.” Conversely, Joanna Fon, a resident of Fairy Lane, voiced concerns about the lack of communication and the potential negative impacts of construction. She remarked, “I have never received any communication from them,” highlighting her apprehension about noise and traffic disruptions.

The board members acknowledged the design’s community engagement efforts but stressed the importance of effective communication with all affected residents. Concerns about traffic management during construction were also discussed, with emphasis on avoiding the use of Fairy Lane for construction access to minimize disruption.

In addition to the approval of The Standard Hotel project, the meeting addressed other topics. The board considered a proposal for a new one-story commercial building on Alton Road. The revised plans aimed to improve the site’s utilization and pedestrian accessibility, featuring a continuous 10-foot-wide sidewalk and enhanced exterior materials. The applicant emphasized the project’s role as a first step in a broader redevelopment plan for the area.

Another major discussion involved the Southgate Towers’ renovation plans, presented by Air Communities. The proposal included updates to the building’s entryway, canopy structure, lighting, and signage. A variance was requested to allow a cursive script on the building identification sign, which deviates from the current code. The renovations aimed to address resident feedback, particularly concerning congestion at the entrance due to package deliveries. The plan included designated parking for delivery trucks and a redesigned lobby entry.

Public comments on the Southgate Towers project also focused on the Baywalk, a waterfront path adjacent to the property. Several residents advocated for opening the Baywalk to the public, emphasizing its importance for community access. While some supported the renovations, they urged the board to leverage their negotiating power to ensure public access to the Baywalk. The board discussed the legal and logistical challenges of opening the Baywalk, noting that it could only be opened once adjacent segments were completed and certain conditions were met.

The meeting also covered a proposed project on Alton Road, which involved modifications to a previously approved design. The new design aimed to integrate better with the adjacent Canopy Park, focusing on pedestrian accessibility and community engagement. Staff recommended approval without the proposed parking lot, arguing that existing parking facilities were sufficient. However, the applicant emphasized the necessity of some parking to support retail activity and proposed a design that minimized vehicular use while enhancing the overall flow and accessibility to the park.