A primary focus of the meeting was the application by Denholtz Acquisition LLC for the development of 900 Madison. The applicant presented revised architectural plans, which included changes aimed at enhancing environmental efficiency and addressing feedback from previous board discussions. The revisions were in pursuit of LEED silver certification. The applicant confirmed the intention to design the building based on LEED criteria with the assistance of a consultant and made an application to a state program that would involve monitoring and verification of the building’s energy efficiency.

During the meeting, the board also engaged in a discussion about the documentation required for the Aspire program. There was debate over the responsibility for documenting various construction aspects, such as the number of bike racks, insulation value, and roofing materials. The board deliberated on making it a condition for professionals to receive and approve a checklist report and considered using the documentation as a trigger for the release of performance bonds.

Another topic addressed was the building’s frontage design, particularly the sidewalk and street tree layout, which had received conditional approval from the county. The board and the applicant expressed their willingness to work with the county and the city’s planner’s office to address concerns related to pedestrian safety and landscaping elements. Public comments brought up the potential need for additional crosswalks at Madison Avenue, but there were challenges in obtaining county approval for such modifications.

Safety concerns extended to the design of the building’s amenity roof deck. The expansion and upgrade of the deck included changes from extensive to intensive planting, the addition of outdoor communal dining and lounge spaces, and the inclusion of dog runs. The board scrutinized the design of the dog runs, specifically the height and security of the enclosure, and debated the sufficiency of a four-foot enclosure, with some members suggesting the addition of a two-foot inward-leaning topper for added security.

Steve Litster, director of development for Denholtz, presented the staging plan for the construction project, outlining the sequence of building and the use of a neighboring lot for staging construction materials. The board raised concerns about pedestrian access during construction, especially along Memorial Drive, emphasizing the need to keep sidewalks open. Public comments echoed worries about pedestrian safety, sidewalk closures, and the impact of construction on the surrounding neighborhood.

The board voted to approve the application with conditions that included the need to comply with prior approvals, ensure pedestrian safety, and coordinate with the city on various aspects of the project.