The board delved into the safety concerns surrounding the placement of EV chargers within parking decks, a topic that drew discussion. Members expressed apprehension about the potential risks of EV fires, highlighting an incident in Jacksonville, Florida, where an EV fire condemned an entire parking deck. The complexities of retrofitting existing parking decks for EVs were acknowledged, with one participant remarking on the impracticality of such endeavors under current conditions.

The conversation about EV infrastructure also touched on the state mandate requiring that 15% of parking spaces be designated for EVs, presenting a challenge for the space-constrained community. There was a consensus that regulations should consider different types of parking structures, including surface lots, standalone decks, and podium decks with residential units above. The board discussed the weight implications of EVs on parking structures.

A proposed policy statement aims to incorporate insights from the meeting, recommending the differentiation of standards for various parking types and providing clear expectations for developers. The policy would also address residential charging solutions, potentially encouraging driveway charging by positioning receptacles closer to garage doors. These measures seek to balance safety concerns with the need for continued development and adaptation to increasing EV ownership.

The board then shifted focus to the Granite building rehabilitation project, a plan to restore and update a structure that has stood for over 130 years. The proposed project involves transforming the building into a mixed-use space, with retail units on the ground floor and residential apartments above. The design aims to preserve the historical character of the building while incorporating contemporary elements. The board commended the attention to detail in maintaining the building’s architectural integrity, particularly the intricate brickwork and cornice detailing.

The redevelopment plan includes new entrances to enhance pedestrian access, the removal of a fire escape in favor of a code-compliant staircase, and the addition of modern lighting and fixtures to improve the building’s aesthetic appeal. The board also discussed parking provisions, noting a calculated demand for nearly 80 spaces, while the proposal accommodates around 42 spaces. Further traffic studies were anticipated to address this discrepancy.

Design discussions included the introduction of a “brownstone feel” for residential entrances to distinguish them from commercial spaces, the use of awnings and varied window styles to soften the visual transition, and the inclusion of landscaping to enhance the building’s street presence. The board expressed a desire to balance historical preservation with modern updates.