The commission dedicated substantial time to discussing the ambitious redevelopment project at 76 to 82 River Beach Boulevard. This proposal includes constructing a six-story building encompassing approximately 80 residential units, retail spaces, and two parking garages. John Tilton, representing the engineering firm behind the project, presented the plans, highlighting the project’s location on four parcels totaling roughly 0.58 acres. The proposal aims to transform existing sites, including the Bill Ash lounge and Twist and Shake locations, into a modern mixed-use development with commercial areas on the ground floor.

A key issue raised during the meeting was the site’s location within a coastal flood zone, necessitating careful scrutiny of drainage and runoff management. The commission expressed concerns about the existing drainage infrastructure’s ability to handle increased water flow from the new development. The project’s plans involve directing roof runoff through downspouts into catch basins on River Beach Boulevard, an area already plagued by drainage challenges. The commission repeatedly stressed the need for assurance from the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) regarding the system’s capacity to manage the additional runoff. Despite ongoing discussions with DCR, clarity on permit acquisition remained elusive, prompting one participant to emphasize the importance of understanding where the drainage from the roof would go on the boulevard side.

Erosion control measures also drew attention, particularly the project’s southbound side, where significant land slopes towards Ocean Avenue. Suggestions were made for modular erosion control solutions, such as hay bales, to address potential challenges. Additionally, the commission discussed potential debris management strategies, including the use of wheel washers or tacky surfaces to mitigate construction impacts. Concerns about polluted runoff from the parking lot were highlighted, with inquiries regarding the use of separation devices to treat water before entering the drainage system.

Another aspect of the meeting was the discussion surrounding the project’s impact on local businesses and the community. Residents voiced concerns about construction activities potentially obstructing traffic lanes, particularly on the boulevard, and emphasized the need for clear access to prevent congestion during peak hours. The developers assured that minimal interference with traffic was anticipated, especially during sidewalk reconstruction. Attention was also given to the fate of local favorite Twist and Shake, with assurances provided that the establishment would have the opportunity to return to a retail space within the new building.

Aesthetic considerations were another topic of interest, with residents expressing apprehension about the new construction fitting into the local architectural landscape. The developers presented architectural plans, explaining that the new buildings would be constructed with steel and wood frames, similar to existing structures, with elevations designed to remain above the floodplain.

Notably, they reviewed and approved certificates of compliance for a property on Charger Street, involving both a 1999 order for a former crushing yard and a 2020 order related to a retaining wall. The commission commended the property’s well-maintained condition and robust stormwater management, leading to unanimous approvals.

Additionally, the commission considered a certificate of compliance for a 16-unit building on River Beach Boulevard. The expansion, which included adding stories to an existing 8-unit building and incorporating a pervious parking lot, received positive remarks from the commission for its effective use of pervious pavement. A question about a pipe on the building’s south side was clarified, and the commission unanimously approved the compliance certificate.

The meeting concluded with the commission addressing continued business items, including extending a notice of intent for a property on Glendale Avenue and discussing site visits to various addresses. A communication from Massachusetts authorities regarding a negative determination about the eastern county ditch was noted, simplifying future processes.