The proposed development, presented by 115 Park Street LLC, involves the demolition of existing structures to construct a new building comprising 120 residential units and seven commercial spaces. The project includes a two-tiered parking structure and provisions for 50 parking spaces. However, residents and board members expressed apprehension over the adequacy of these spaces, given the project’s scale and the existing parking challenges in the area. One speaker highlighted the need for a comprehensive parking plan, noting that many residents own cars despite public transportation availability. Suggestions were made to establish agreements with local institutions to expand parking availability, particularly for nighttime use.

The discussion also focused on the types of residential units proposed. Concerns were raised about the predominance of smaller units, which some felt did not cater to families. The developer defended the unit mix, noting that smaller units are more desirable and align with the city’s vision for density along the Broadway corridor. However, community members expressed a desire for more family-oriented housing, with one speaker citing the high demand for affordable housing among working-class families and multi-generational households in Chelsea. The project includes 18 inclusionary units in accordance with Chelsea’s inclusionary zoning program, but residents argued this was insufficient.

Traffic and safety implications were another focal point, with a traffic analysis conducted to assess the project’s impact on local roadways. The study considered seven intersections and anticipated lower traffic generation compared to the site’s previous commercial use. Nonetheless, residents remained concerned about congestion, particularly during school hours, and emphasized the need for a more examination of the project’s traffic impact. The meeting concluded with a motion to table the project until the next board meeting to allow for further review of the traffic study and other necessary documentation.

In addition to the large-scale development, the board discussed a proposal at 18 to 24 Grand View Road, involving a redesign from a side-by-side duplex to a stacked two-family design. Concerns were raised about the accuracy of shadow studies and the practicality of tandem parking arrangements. Residents highlighted the narrowness of the street and existing parking difficulties, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of the project’s impact on neighborhood dynamics.

The board also approved modifications to special permits for Enterprise Rental Car Company on Marginal Street, including the addition of truck rental services and site reconfigurations. The changes were deemed minor, allowing the project to proceed without a full public review process.

Lastly, the board considered a proposed change to parking regulations related to on-street parking sticker eligibility. The amendment aimed to address fairness by allowing residents who meet the number of required off-street parking spaces, but not other dimensional regulations, to remain eligible for parking stickers. The board expressed a desire to review the entire parking process in the future, acknowledging challenges posed by inadequate public transportation and increasing reliance on personal vehicles.