02/13/2008 Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Road right of way, which would make the lot extremely challenging to develop. The applicant's proposal would result in the area being more conforming to required setbacks. Mr. Collins recommends a right turn arrow and/or right turn only sigri on the drive apron to Lorain Road. The landscape plan does not accurately reflect the site plan at the southeast corner of the building. Engineering recommends the 36 foot drive entrance for truck maneuvering. The grading plan shows the site being raised 4-5 feet, presumably for storm water drainage but needs to be clarified. Mr. O'Malley reviewed the planning role versus that of the BZA as it pertains to variances. Where possible, the Commission should work to eliminate variances, such as the variance for landscape irrigation. Mr. Lewis spoke on behalf of Walgreens. They have been given the authority to purchase and represent the property owners in question. An aerial map was distributed showing the area. The approx 14,000 square foot building will replace ten structures currently on the site, with a project area of 1.91 acres. All improvements will be located on the commercially zoned side of the property. The code requires 58 parking spaces. The proposal includes a drive through on the east side; on the north side will be trash compaction, tote enclosure and deliveries. All enclosures will be masonry with a board on board gate. Adequate lighting is added to the parking lot while preventing spill over to adjacent properties. The planting areas around the site contain sod, bushes trees and plants which will be irrigated. There are 2 curb cuts, one to Lorain Road, and one to Columbia Road. The curb cuts are safer than the present flow of traffic and are located as fax away from the intersection as possible. New sidewalks, new curb, new brickscape will enhance curb appeal. The bio retention area is north; buffering the properties to the north will be an 8 foot vinyl fence. The adjacent property owner is not opposed to adding a vinyl fence to the property. The building will be constructed of finished masonry products such as a medium tan brick, limestone towards the top, and split faced block towards the bottom. Green awnings ' will follow the window line. Pilaster elements are added along all elevations for aesthetic enhancement. ' A vine trellis will be added to the east side of the building, possibly with wisteria. Ms. Meredith read Mr. Rerko's comments. He wrote that the ground sign should be set back for traffic visibility and recommended fencing the bioretention pond. He does like the design but would like material samples. He requested internal downspouts, and that the tote enclosure has the green metal roof. Mr. Lewis said they did not move the ground sign because of the need for visibility and the proximity to the parking and landscaping. Mr. Collins felt the ground sign placement was adequate. Mr. Malone clarified that the applicant would install an irrigation system. He asked the applicant to provide more information on the bio retention basin, including a planting plan. He did not believe a fence vvas necessary as the basin would contain soil and plant life. Walgreens would like a fence for safety, which they said could be decorative. Mr. Malone recommended planting bushes in front of the decorative fence. He said the choice of plant material is good however the evergreens should be 7-8 foot at planting. The brickscape will be pavers. Mr. Malone recommended a tree survey to determine if significant trees in the basin area could be saved. The Commission discussed the potential of landbanking 5-10 parking spaces along the north and west property lines near the Columbia Road curb cut in order to increase the green buffer to the