The development on Great Road has been a topic of significant interest due to its potential to transform the local housing landscape. A representative from the development firm shared that the project includes 285 housing units, with an emphasis on constructing nearly all of the required affordable units upfront. The board expressed satisfaction with this approach, noting that consolidating senior housing would effectively address multiple community needs. Discussions also touched on the necessary sewer arrangements, with the developer confirming ongoing communications with the Littleton Water District to ensure adequate capacity and allocation.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted the importance of traffic and pedestrian safety in the area. Traffic studies approved by MEPA for the project involved an analysis of fifteen intersections, leading to required mitigations aimed at improving pedestrian and bicycle accommodations. The plan includes updates to intersection improvements and traffic signal timings to ensure safety and accessibility. Construction of these improvements is set to be completed before the first retail phase of the development opens.

The developers also addressed concerns regarding the integration of retail and residential spaces. The first phase of retail space includes plans for five buildings, with feedback from the community and board influencing the decision to focus on standalone retail structures. This change aims to create a critical mass to attract tenants while aligning with community preferences for retail over mixed-use buildings.

Criticism of the King Street façade was a focal point during the meeting. Concerns were raised about the lack of activation along King Street, with some participants pointing out that the design could potentially result in a “back” rather than an inviting front, given the absence of entries or walkways to encourage foot traffic.

Furthermore, the architectural plans introduced for buildings 1100 through 1500 were scrutinized for their adherence to form-based code and traditional New England architecture. Specific concerns were raised about the footprint and height of the buildings, particularly Building 1100, which is intended to be three feet taller than permitted due to a two-story restaurant. The board expressed a desire for the design to evoke an active street life that encourages community interaction.

As the meeting progressed, there was a discussion on pedestrian accessibility and the integration of the Disability Commission into ongoing projects. Concerns were raised about the lack of parking and retail access on King Street, with the design necessitating a walk around the structure to enter retail spaces. This design change was influenced by state mandates prohibiting parking on King Street, which altered the retail layout from previous community presentations.