2004-05-05
CITY OF BEVERLY MASSACHUSETTS
MEETING MINUTES
BOARD OR COMMISSION: Parking and Traffic Commission
DATE: May 5, 2004
LOCATION: Third Floor, City Hall
MEMBERS PRESENT: Sgt. Dennis Tarsook, Clark Mitchell, Sue Mueller,
Tina Cassidy
MEMBERS ABSENT: Bob Mead
OTHERS PRESENT:
RECORDER: Tina Cassidy
Cassidy calls the meeting to order at 10:30 and explains that the Committee has convened to
review the proposed site plan for the former Pisani’s property on Rantoul Street. John
Leary, representing Roof Investors and attorney Mark Glovsky are present to explain the
proposal and answer questions.
Glovsky states that the property consists of a convenience store, a closed bar, and several
residential units. The developers propose to raze the building and construct a new building
that will house 46 residential units and two small retail spaces totaling approximately 4,600
sq. ft. of space. Parking will be provided behind and under the building; the parking facility
will have two entrances (one off Pleasant Street and one off Court Street). A total of 81
parking spaces will be provided, more than is required by the zoning ordinance.
Tarsook notes that there are parking restrictions on the left side of Pleasant Street, where
parking is limited to two hours between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and noontime. Glovsky
notes that the Pleasant Street entrance to the parking area is about 60’ – 65’ away from
Rantoul Street.
Glovsky notes that the project has several positive aspects; it redevelops an older,
substandard building site, creates housing near public transportation in keeping with the
State’s “Smart Growth” initiative, creates development within walking distance of existing
stores and restaurants, and will probably create less traffic because of its proximity to the
train station. He adds that the expected profile of residents is for older and single tenants,
and couples without children. The project is not expected to “generate” very many children,
and the units are likely to be condominiums, not rental units.
Glovsky explains that the project is before the Zoning Board of Appeals, since the proposed
construction would need several variances from the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance.
Requests include a possible variance for height, and setback relief for the two wings on
either side of the proposed building. He notes that the project meets the City’s new design
guidelines in terms of façade design and placement of buildings on the street.
Cassidy asks if members have any questions. Tarsook asks how wide the driveway openings
will be. Glovsky answers that they will be approximately 15’ (Pleasant Street) and 17’ (Court
Parking and Traffic Commission Meeting Minutes
May 5, 2004 Page 1 of 2
Street) wide. Members express concern that those widths are too narrow; the minimum
driveway width for two-way traffic in the zoning ordinance is 24’, and the minimum width
for one-way traffic is 18’. These driveways are designed to service two way traffic. Leary
suggests that the developers can add a warning light on the side of the building to warn
pedestrians of exiting cars. The committee supports the suggestion, but wants the plans to
be revised to widen the proposed entrances to the parking area. Glovsky and Leary agree to
have the plan revised. Cassidy suggests that the plan be modified and presented to the
th
committee in advance of the Planning Board’s meeting on May 18, so that an updated
comment letter can be prepared for the Board’s consideration. Glovsky indicates that they
will endeavor to do so.
There being no other business, the meeting is adjourned at 11:10 a.m.
Parking and Traffic Commission Meeting Minutes
May 5, 2004 Page 2 of 2