The subject of the meeting was primarily the adaptive reuse of the building at 146-152 Glenwood Avenue, which once served as an apartment complex and later as university dorms. The proposed renovation includes extensive internal modifications to update the building to current building and fire code standards while restoring its original residential function. The proposal aims to cater to a diverse range of occupants, from families to young professionals, and reflects the character of the primarily residential block within the R3 midrise multifamily district.

The plan presented by the applicant’s attorney, Stephen Joseph, detailed the renovation efforts including the power washing of existing brick, repointing, and the replacement of windows and doors. The layout of the proposed building includes duplexes, a lobby, an exercise room, and 79 bathrooms, six half-baths, and 81 total bedrooms across the units. Additionally, five affordable housing units are planned to be integrated within the building. Due to the building’s historic status and the inclusion of affordable housing, parking facilities were deemed infeasible.

Community engagement and feedback have been pivotal in shaping the development plan. The proposal also includes a commitment to salvage and potentially replant existing courtyard vegetation within the neighborhood. The board discussed the potential relocation of trees in collaboration with the Department of Forestry.

The issue of bicycle parking was also a point of discussion, with the proposal including 27 bike spots and the potential for additional spots if needed. Questions were raised about the storage of electric bikes and the location of the affordable housing units within the building. Further, the board deliberated on the potential impacts on light, air, and open space in the surrounding area, as well as the implications for the intent of the zoning ordinance and the zone plan.

Technical difficulties with the presentation slides led to the interruption of the presentation, and subsequently, the meeting was adjourned until the next session, where a full board would be present to address public comments and questions.

Aside from the major site plan proposal at 146-152 Glenwood Avenue, the meeting also saw the approval of one-year extensions for projects on Barrow Street, 203 Danforth Avenue, 29 97th Street, and Union Street. The applicants for these projects cited reasons such as financing difficulties and the need for additional time to complete the developments.