Community representatives emphasized the project’s excessive height and insufficient parking, with some residents worried about potential environmental impacts and safety concerns. An abutter highlighted the encroachment on her driveway, which had been used by her family for many years, and flagged environmental implications due to the proximity to Seon Park. The community’s unease was compounded by the lack of updated, stamped plans from the planning department, which hindered their ability to assess the project’s impact fully.

The board ultimately moved to deny the proposal without prejudice.

In another significant topic, the board reviewed a proposal for a mixed-use building at 751-757 W Street, which included plans for residential units, retail space, and parking. The project faced scrutiny over its affordable housing provision, with only six affordable units proposed, falling below the typical percentage expected under the Inclusionary Development Policy. Board members expressed concern over this shortfall, though the developer highlighted additional community benefits such as a Blue Bike program curb expansion. The project’s design, featuring a combination of brick, terracotta, and metal paneling, was aligned with the area’s architectural style. Despite mixed community feedback, the board approved the proposal, emphasizing its consistency with ongoing community planning efforts.

A separate case involving the transformation of a former T-Mobile store into a casual restaurant on West Broadway was met with no opposition during public testimony. With support from neighborhood associations and the local councilor’s office, the board approved the application. This development was positioned as part of a broader trend of revitalizing commercial spaces in the area.

The board also addressed a proposal for the installation of wireless communication antennas on Chelsea Street. The presentation outlined plans for four antenna sectors, each with five antennas, to improve Verizon’s wireless coverage in East Boston. However, opposition emerged from the Maverick Central Neighborhood Association, who expressed concerns over visual clutter and health implications due to the saturation of cell towers in the area. Despite these objections, the board approved the project with recommendations for minimizing the visual impact through screening.

Additionally, the board considered the reconsideration of a three-family residential building on East 3rd Street. The applicant sought a revisit after a previous denial, citing a misunderstanding during the initial vote. The board approved the motion for reconsideration, allowing for further examination of the project, particularly its alignment with zoning relief for shallow lots.