03/01/2021 Design Review Board Minutes
Simsbury Design Review Board
Town of Simsbury
Regular Meeting Minutes - Subject to Approval
Monday, March 1, 2021 at 5:30 P.M.
The public meeting was web-based on Zoom at:
https://zoom.us/j/2574297243
Meeting ID: 257 429 7243
PRESENT: Steven Antonio, Anca Dragulski, Polly Rice, Katherine Beal (arrived late)
ABSENT: Elaine Lang
ALSO PRESENT: Michael Glidden, Town Planner
Jackie Battos, Board of Selectman
Lori Wagner, Economic Development Commission
Laura Barkowski, Land Use Specialist
I. CALL TO ORDER- Chair Antonio called the meeting to order at 5:30 P.M.
II. ROLL CALL
1. Appointment of Alternates- None
III. PRELIMINARY DISCUSSION
1. Chris Nelson of Nelson Construction for Re-development of 32 Iron Horse Boulevard.
Mr. Nelson introduced his team and gave the background of what has gone off since they were last before the Board. Mr. Nelson detailed the site work and property clean up that has been going on. Due to the feedback from the last meeting that brought in experts. The presentation was turned over to Mark Arigoni of SLR. The conceptual plan was shared with the board. Mr. Arigoni highlighted the central spine road is envisioned in the same area as it is now to get onto Iron Horse Blvd. Emphasis was placed in maintain an open, green space in front. The internal roadway, and property overview was mapped out including descriptions of the apartment buildings, club house, pool, and parking features. Mr. Arigoni highlighted other features of the proposed plan including maintenance buildings, office building and recycling and trash collection areas. Other features include a trail system that connects with the existing linear trail system in the area with the loop trail that would be asset to the public in addition to the residents.
Jack Kemper of Kemper Associates in Farmington went into details of proposed architecture. Mr. Kemper detailed the four separate apartment buildings with recessed entries; including the incorporation of the traditional brown stone, brick and clapboard. He highlighted that the desire was to make it feel like it belonged in town without being a strict reproduction. The buildings will house approximately 170 units. Mr. Kemper explained that the clubhouse is designed to be similar to some of the Ensign Bickford buildings. Mr. Kemper detailed the elevation, and proposed variation on colors.
Greg Ugalde further explained the flow of the proposal and what it can bring to the Town. The new plan has the park open space to the front of the development and the feel it creates.
Ms. Rice expressed that she was in favor of the new proposal. Mr. Antonio inquired as to the lighting being proposed. Mr. Nelson indicated that he they haven’t addressed the detail for the lighting on the path. He further indicated he did not envision that trail being used after dark however the Town and the developers will have to be prudent about liability. Mr. Antonio explained that he would like consistency with what is currently used on Iron Horse Boulevard. Mr. Antonio inquired as to the proposed siding for the garages. Mr. Nelson clarified he envisions stone accents with a mix of vinyl, pvc and it hasn’t been formalized yet. Mr. Antonio inquired as to the roofing, the types of trees and other details proposed. Mr. Arigoni explained that specifics have not been set however he envisions a heavily landscaped project.
At this time Ms. Beal joined the meeting.
Mr. Rice inquired if the property would be all rental or some units would be for purchase. Mr. Nelson clarified that it is only a rental property.
Mr. Kemper briefly reiterated the proposed plans.
Mr. Antonio inquired as to visitor spots. Mr. Arigoni indicated they are comfortable with the current parking spots, however they have places to add parking if it is needed. Mr. Nelson explained that space has also been allotted for bicycle parking.
Mr. Antonio emphasized the importance of taking cues from area buildings so the structures complement one another.
Ms. Dragulski complimented the team on the effort and was favorable to the plans submitted. Ms. Dragulski further advised as to the materials and to stay with the brownstone and brick.
Ms. Beal expressed that this feels that this is an opportunity to infuse some contemporary elements, loft like feel.
Mr. Kemper explained some details that incorporated this comment with emphasis on dark color, canopies, store front styles and recessed entry ways.
Mr. Glidden clarified it is a preliminary discussion so no action is need at this time.
IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES of the February 1, 2021 regular meeting
The following corrections were made:
Line 42 – change to read “and removal of illumination”
Line 68 – change landscaping to read “planter boxes establishes the perimeter:
Motion made by Mr. Antonio to approval of minutes as amended to the February 1, 2021, Ms. Rice seconded; Motion passed unanimously.
V. ADJOURNMENT
Ms. Dragulski made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Seconded by Ms. Beal. Motion passed unanimously.
Meeting adjourned 6:15 pm
Respectfully Submitted,
Laura Barkowski
Acting Clerk