The primary agenda item involved the amendment of the 316 Main Avenue LLC project, where previously approved plans were revised to increase the number of two-bedroom units from six to nine, maintaining a total of 24 bedrooms. This adjustment was part of a broader effort to refine the building’s design, which included retracting the front facade to eliminate an overhang that had previously extended into the right-of-way. Efforts to obtain approval for the overhang had been unsuccessful, prompting the design team to pull back the structure by 19.2% to comply with property lines.

During the meeting, the project’s engineer and architect presented the revised architectural plans, emphasizing the removal of the overhang and the reduction in the roof profile to accommodate zoning requirements for penthouse spaces. The architect highlighted the importance of maintaining the unit count while adjusting the interior layouts to enhance living options. Notably, the reduction in the size of the penthouses was attributed to a recalculated allowable space relative to the overall roof area.

Board members scrutinized the changes, particularly the articulation of the building’s corners and the impact of removing the overhang. The architect explained that materials would now define the building’s edges, shifting away from structural protrusions. Members requested visual aids to better understand the modifications, expressing difficulty in visualizing the changes without renderings. A member noted, “I struggle. I need a little bit more visual,” indicating a desire for more comprehensive visual references.

The board also addressed the project’s parking requirements, which were set at 1.5 spaces per unit, not based on the number of bedrooms. This approach was met with some dissatisfaction, as the board sought to ensure that parking arrangements met the needs of future residents. Concerns were raised about the adequacy of the newly designed two-bedroom units, particularly their size compared to larger adjacent one-bedroom units. The architect assured the board that the design maximized window space to create a spacious feel, despite the smaller dimensions.

Attention then shifted to the Interfaith Neighbors project on Spring Street, where parking lease agreements were reviewed. The lease, spanning 20 years with an optional extension, was intended to provide adequate parking for both residential units and a museum operating within the same space. The board expressed concerns about the lease’s terms and the potential for conflicts if the museum required additional parking during events or weekends.

Members questioned if this arrangement would suffice, particularly during peak times or special events. The board requested further clarification from Interfaith Neighbors to ensure that parking needs would be met at all times, including weekends when the organization is typically closed.

The board emphasized the need for clarity in agreements and visual presentations to fully understand the implications of proposed changes. As a result, Interfaith Neighbors representatives were invited to provide additional insights, while the board continued to review the specifics of the parking requirements to safeguard community interests and operational needs.