HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-03-16 Planning Board Minutes Town of North Andover
PLANNING BOARD
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Andover-, MA 01845a p. dr 1 Trrest rry, Mtrrclr 16 2021 �' nr. 1201V1aur Street Toi��rr„Hrrllror•N,,,,._
2 Present: E. Goldberg,J. Simons, P. Boynton, A. Preston, K. Bargnesi K. Cormier, Assoc.
3 Absent:
4 Staff Present: J. Enright
5
6 E. Goldberg, Chairman: The Planning Board rneeting for Tuesday, March 16, 2021 was called to order at 7 p.m.
7
8 E.E. G_._._oldbei (Rea(I the Governor's Order into the record). Votes will be recorded as roll call this evening, This
9 nreetirrg was held remotely via conference call.
10 J. Enright(in person/present): Roll Call: K. Cormier(remote participant), P. Boynton (remote participant), A.
11 Preston(remote participant), K. Bargnesi (remote participant)J. Simons(in-person/present), E. Goldberg(in-
12 person/present).
13
14 Pur;srront to Governor Baker's March 12,2020 Order Suspending Certain Provisions of the Open Meeting Law, G.L. c.
15 30A,§18, and the Governor's March 15,2020 Order imposing strict limitation on the number of people that may gather irr
16 one place, Ibis rneeting of the North Andoiter Planning Board will be conducted via remote participation to the greatest
17 extent possible.Specific information and the general guidelines for remote participation by metrbers of the public andlor
18 parties with a right and/or requirement to attend this rneeting can be found on the Toivu's rvebsite, at
19 rvrvw.rtor•tlturdoverrrrti.gov. For this meeting,rnernbers of the public who wish to ►vatch the meeting may do so oil their
20 tele4sions by tuning to Conteast Channel8 or Verizon Channel26 or online lit wlvH:rrortliaitloverearrr.org. No ht person
21 attendance of rnernbers of the public will be permitted, but eveq effort rv111 he made to ensure that theprrhlic cart
22 adequately access the proceedings in real trine, via technological Inearrs. Ira the event that rve are ratable to do so, despite
23 best efforts, we will post on the Torvn of North Andover website trrr audio or video recording,transcript,or other
24 comprehensive record of proceedings as soon as possible after the nreetirrg. If the public would like to participate in public
25 hearings please entail your questionleonintent prior to or diming the rneeting to jenright(thnortbandovernra.xov. The
26 question/corrtrreut will be read during the proceedings and responded to aeeordingly.
27
28 STAFF REPORT
29
30 ANR PLAN
31 65 Nutmeg Lane_(Ann/Richar(l Cavanaugh)—575 Salem Street(Christine/Joe[Schwartz)
32 J.Enright: This is a land swap ANR Plan. Existing lot lines are being removed at 575 Salem St to create a single
33 large lot(Lot C). Parcels A&B (not buildable lots) are being conveyed to Sean and Alyssa Kevlahan at Lot 18,
34 #75 Nutmeg Lane. Parcel B comes from 65 Nutmeg and Parcel A conies from the former 575 Salern St. We have a
35 stamped engineer plan; there is sufficient frontage and area for each of the lots.
36 MOTION: J. Simons made a motion to approve the ANR plan and direct the Planner to endorse it. A. Preston
37 seconded the motion. Roll Call vote: A. Preston voted yes. P. Boynton yes. K. Bargnesi voted yes. J. Simons voted
38 yes. E. Goldberg voted yes. The vote was 5-0, unanimous in favor.
39
40 [FL. Goldberg read Gov. Baket•'s Ot•der into the record]
41 CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARINGS
42 3 Great Pond Road,Elaine Finbury: Application for a Site Plan Review Special Permit under Article 8, Part 3
43 and Article 10 § 195-10.7 of the North Andover Zoning Bylaw. The Applicant proposes the creative reuse and
44 conversion of the Grange Hall in the Old Center to three residential units, construction of retaining walls,
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Town of North Andover
PLANNING BOARD
Ha
ll,ally„North Andover•, MA 01845
crew ay, ar•c t � 7 p.nt.,_120 MaMainreet Town „
45 stormwater management,and creation of associated parking spaces. No exterior alterations are proposed. The
46 parcel is located within the Residential 3 zoning district.
47 T. Enright: This is an application for a Residential Adaptive Reuse Special Permit. Opened by the Board oil
48 11.24.20 with no evidence heard,the project has been continued each meeting until this evening. ZBA opened the
49 application in November, continued to March 9,2021 and approved a special permit for Residential Adaptive
50 Reuse at that hearing triggering Site Plan Review before this Board. ZBA also granted a variance for a drive aisle
51 width of I I feet. A revised plan has been submitted utilizing a separate Iandlocked parcel to the rear of the Grange
52 parcel showing 3 packing spaces. Original application proposed 4 parking spaces to the real-of the Grange on the
53 same parcel and 2 spaces to the left of the Grange requiring vehicles to back out onto Great Pond Rd., a significant
54 concern to the ZBA. Abutter comments, based on the original application,will be read into the record as this is a
55 public hearing. Conservation, DPW Operations and DPW Engineering have substantive comments that need to be
56 addressed. The proposal requires an NOI with Conservation; it appears they are further encroaching into the 50 ft.
57 no-build zone for parking. Revised plan is currently under department review; Police and Fire have no concerns.
58 Property is R3 and directly abuts B1; Building Commissioner deemed the parcel eligible for a Residential
59 Adaptive Reuse SP; multi-families are a permitted use. Application proposes to maintain the footprint and exterior
60 of the building. Bylaw for Residential Adaptive Reuse permits requires a minimum of 30% of the remaining lot
61 area must remain permeable material such as, but not limited to, vegetation,mulch and trees, unless specifically
62 waived by the Planning Board during Site Plan Review. This calculation has not been received yet. Application
63 did not include a list of waivers which has been requested. Submitted plan is not a typical site plan that comes with
64 a stormwater report, community impact, fiscal impact,etc. often those are waived,but it requires a list of waivers
65 be submitted. ZBA and Planning Board may grant special permits for prospective uses and site plans in order that
66 the owners may renovate for approval for specific businesses or tenants. Evidence shall be provided that the
67 project is in accordance with the current North Andover Master Plan and if applicable, with the guidelines set forth
68 in the Secretary of Interiors Standards for Rehabilitation and guidelines for rehabilitating historic buildings in
69 terms of rehabilitation and its site. Excerpts from the Master Plan and Housing Production Plan have been
70 outlined that speak to what the applicants are trying to accomplish. Applicant needs to appear before Conservation
71 and Olde Centel-Historic District. Abutter comments made to the ZBA will be reviewed to ensure they have been
72 addressed.
73 A. Caffrey, Agy. for Applicant: Introduced team. ZBA had concerns about the original circular drive design
74 around the building and packing. Revised design utilizes a back parcel of land that was not originally considered.
75 Nothing is proposed to the left side of the building; pavement there will be removed. Area is near wetlands and
76 there is a steep slope on that side. Driveway to the right of the building will provide access to 3 parking spaces
77 behind the building on the main lot; 3 more spaces are now located in the rectangular lot behind.ZBA granted a
78 variance for the existing 11 ft. drive. Maintaining the current structure is the only appropriate use for the land.
79 Grange building is an iconic structure just outside the Old Center. Reuse as 3 residential units meets the town's
80 Master Plan and is a creative reuse of the building. There is adequate light and ventilation; renovation will meet
81 current building codes reducing fire hazard. Located near the Old Centel-, Town Common and the recreational
82 center there is adequate transportation, municipal and recreational services for the 3 units. Preservation will
83 enhance amenities to the town and puts another structure oil the tax rolls. Six cars will not strain the services in the
84 area;there is adequate water and sewer. As proposed, this is a good project for the town. We are working to meet
85 the requirements of the Planning Board; we are ready to comply with those.
86 E. Goldberg: Confirmed qty. of units and bedrooms; this will be condominiums.
87 J. Enright: Levels one and two(1950 sf) 3-4 bedrooms;the basement unit(1,642 sf) shows 3 bedrooms.
88 E. Goldberg: (Read rill abutter comments into the record) Donovan, Gramly and Olsen.
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Town of North Andover
PLANNING BOARD
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Tuesday, Match 16,_2021_(i-i), 7 p.m., 120 Maur StPeet Towrr Hall,Nortlr Atrrlovei,, MA 01845
89 A. Caffrey: Described new plan addresses these concerns. Applicant would ,._,...,._..
treed to talk with the local postmaster
90 to see what can be done to ensure the safety of the postal carriers, parking has been revised to eliminate the
91 backing out onto Great fond Rd., anything less than 3 units is not financially feasible; this is profit driven to some
92 extent. Applicant's talents are in historic preservation wlnicln is why she is interested taking on this project. This
93 building has been for sale for many years. Proximity to rotary helps because vehicles tend to drive more slowly
94 through that area.
95 Tony Capachetti, Hayes En ingeering: Maintaining existing curb cuts, sensitive to the no-disturb, using as much
96 existing pavement as possible. Studied several site travel paths. The I 1 11. driveway is existing and has been in
97 use;viable for two direction. Trying to save a 30"oak tree oil the lot line which offers a nice aesthetic along the
98 streetscape. It is a safe configuration,vehicles are likely driving slowly 15-20 mph, with adequate site distance in
99 both directions. Minimizing amount of impervious on site; retaining volume equivalent to the increase of
100 pavement; designed to hundred-year storm event which is being placed underground.
101 P. Boynton: Interested in how this form of creative use aright impact the Olde Center. The near terra is attractive;
102 it will be encouraging to see the building in use. What long term impacts will this method of use have many years
103 into the fixture? How will this preserve the historic character?
104 A. Caffrey: The structure will look the same as it does now. It will not function as a"public space"as other
105 preserved structures ill town, i.e.,mill area,etc. There is no fixture use of this building as a meeting hall.
106 J. Simons: Historic use of the building is unlikely to happen. One of the advantages is that you have 3 potential
107 owners with interest in maintaining the property. With institutional use,you will get less preservation and
108 maintenance of the property. We are providing additional housing and preserving the building. Suggested art
109 historical covenant or casement stating the external nature of the property cannot be changed in the future, noting
110 church steeple has a historical restriction.
Ill E. Goldberg: Interested in preserving the exterior. Requested information as to whether it is appropriate for this
112 Board or the Old Center Historic District to address this issue.
113 A. Preston: Explain the work involved, i.e., retaining wall close to a wetland. Requested clarification on the faded
114 building permit in the window. What type of site lighting is proposed and what will that look like?
115 T. Ca acp hetti: Retaining wall is 4.5 ft. tall at its highest point with a 6"curb and integrated guardrail. Lot will be
116 level where infiltration chambers are located. Trying to minimize footprint of this development; total impervious
117 area increases by approx. 826 sf on site. Removing everything not needed. Lighting plan will be provided;
118 doorways will be illuminated, no structured parking lot lighting will be provided, appropriate to the historic use.
119 Not aware of any outstanding building permits oil the property.
120 E. Goldberg: Would like to see art historic plaque on the building explaining date, original use, etc.
121 J.J. Enright: Confirmed the 3 existing parking spaces oil site,not currently paved,will be paved. We will need detail
122 on the surface material for the new proposed spaces. Is the drainage plan the same as the original one? The town
123 engineer responded with comments for your review. Is a dumpster proposed?Have you located snow storage?The
124 tree being saved is 11 ft. from the building. Existing trees proposed to be removed should be shown.
125 T. Capachetti: We are adding pavement to the rear, eliminating the sidewalks and path. Drainage sizing is larger
126 in the revised plan. By placing stormwater underground we are hoping to use that as good will with Conservation
127 for the work that occurs in the 50 ft. no-build. Lowest point is the catch basin rim; lot pitches back toward that
128 catch basin. Wanted feedback prior to going too far. Dimensions will be added on all aisles,walkways and
129 parking.No dumpster proposed,only curbside with toters.Association will be paying for snow removal. Second
130 tree may be lost and will provide compensatory plantings. Applicant to address this with Conservation.
131 E. Goldberg: A lighting plan, list of waivers and items discussed this evening shall be provided to the Board.
132 [Continued to the April 6, 2021 Planning Board ineeting]
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Town of North Andover
PLANNING BOARD
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Tuesday, March 16,2021 (a7, 7 p.m., 120 Main Street Town Hall,North Andover, MA 01845
133
134 [E. Goldberg read Gov. Baker's Order into the record]
135 Annual Town Meeting Zoning Bylaw Amendment Articles:
136 • Table 2: Suiumary of Dimensional Requirements, Corridor Development District 2 CDD2 : Amend lot
137 area ininimum, street frontage,and to make them consistent with the teat in Article 16, Corridor
138 Development District, 195-16.13 of the Zoning Bylaw.
139 • Business 4 District: add Personal Service Establishments to Permitted Uses
140 . Downtown Overlay District,Historic Mill Ares: Subdistrict A: add Personal Service Establishnnctits to
141 Permitted Uses
142 • Water Protection District: Make Boundaries and Zones text consistent dimensions in Table I and Table 2,
143 arnend cross-references and other minor edits.
144 . Sign Bylaw: Amend the zoning bylaw to regulate the placement of signs on private property in a content
145 neutral manner.
146 J. Enright: This is the 3rd public hearing; we have had no public comment on the warrant articles to date.
147 Board has not made any proposed amendments. Sign bylaw is included, S. Egan, Town Counsel, has reflected
148 Board's concerns. She struck off-premise signs from the bylaw; An explanation will be added to the sign bylaw.
149 Board to vote on the proposed warrant articles at the next meeting.
150 [Continued to the April 6, 2021 Planning Bocird meeting]
151
152 NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS
153 0 Beechwood Drive,The Sti� lebine Company: Application for a Site Plan Review Special Permit and Parking
Yi ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,_._
154 Reduction Special Permit under Article 8 Supplementary Regulations, Part] Off-Street Parking and Loading,Part
155 3 Site Plan Review, and Article 16 Corridor Development District of the North Andover Zoning Bylaw. The
156 Applicant proposes construction of a self-storage facility. The proposed use will include a 3-story 90,000 SF
157 building(30,000 SF footprint)with associated parking, landscaping, utilities and stormwater management. The
158 project is located within the Corridor Development District 3 (CDD3)Zoning District.
159 J. Er...........nright: Lot is currently undeveloped and located at the corner of Osgood St. and Beechwood Dr. Lot was
160 subject to an ANR plan in the early 2000's resulting in the lot being short of the required contiguous building area.
161 Applicants obtained a variance from the ZBA. Project requires an NOI with Conservation;their public hearing
162 opened March 10,2021. Initial stormwater peer review comments have been sent to the applicants. The applicant
163 will respond after tonight's meeting. Department review has been received from Health, Conservation, Building,
164 Police, Fire and DPW Operations. Proposal is subject to a septic system design and approval. Plans contemplate a
165 future connection to the sewer once constructed. The plans include two frontages therefore side setbacks are
166 shown on the two sides. Plans will need to be revised. Frontage is Beccliwood Dr. Rear setback dimension is
167 required behind the building.No abutter comments have been received.
168 Bob Dnval, P.E., TF Moran, Inc.: Introduced team. Project is a 90K sf 3-story,climate controlled, self-storage
169 facility. Construction is anticipated 2021 with early 2022 opening. Existing vacant wooded lot with a small
170 wetland in front. Met with Conservation Commission earlier this month;they are interested in this Board's review
171 of the project. Described parking plan. Believes no waiver is required because there is no specific"self-storage
172 use" in the bylaw. Based on sq. footage"warehouse use"23 parking spaces are required; 26 are being provided.
173 Portion of spaces in front of the facility are open to the public; 8 spaces ahead of the security gate(6 ordinary/2
174 accessible) for employees and prospective tenants/visitors prior to having access to the facility. Additional parking
175 is provided for unit access at each bay door. Submitted traffic and parking study noting peak demand hours.
176 Briefly described building elevations for 30K footprint building.
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Town of North Andover
PLANNING BOARD
Trresdav, Maj•ch 16, 2021 a, 7pxi., 120 Marti Sti-eet Towit Hall,NoNlr Arrdovej�, MA_01845
177 Jason Hill, P.E. TF Moran, Inc.: Described stormwater,drainage and septic. Majority of drainage is from clean
178 roof runoff to impervious surfaces. Recharging everything up to and including the 100-year storm event. Recharge
179 areas at lower Ievel. Potential sewer design access considered.
180 B. Duval: Described landscaping plan; well planted site, four seasons of color. Lighting is ordinary parking lot
181 lighting; 2-footcandles. One light pole at each entranceway and building mounted Iights for safety and security.
182 Hours of operation: site is open 7-10 pm; office hours/8:30-5 p.m., tenant access/7-10 p.m. via security code.No
183 access through gates after hours except for emergency personnel. Facility is climate controlled not air conditioned.
184 Joe Mendola Develo er-NAI The Norwood Grou : Humidity is kept between 50-70%; balance between heating
185 and cooling. Smaller units to be located on the roof; low profile, low noise generators. Closest residential Dome is
186 1 K feet away. Closest similar facilities include CubeSmart, Marlborough,MA, and Salem,NH. Signage is not
187 developed yet.
188 J.J. Enright: A monument sign is located at the front corner on the plans. Additional department review comments
189 are anticipated from Fire, septic approval is required by Health who inquired about plan for trash removal,
190 stormwater responses will be reviewed. PIans need to be updated to show a rear setback and dedicated snow
191 storage area. If stormwater review and department comments are satisfied by the next meeting a draft decision
192 may be prepared.
193 [Con inued to the April 6, 2021 Planning Board ineeting]
194
195 [E. Goldberg read Gov. Bakers Order into the record]
196 419 &435 Andover,Street Cross point Associates: Application for a Site Plan Review Special Permit under
197 Article 8, Part I and Part 3, including Parking Special Permits under Article 8 §195-8.8, a Common Driveway
198 Special Permit under Article 2 §195-2.2 and Article 10 § 195-10.7 of the North Andover Zoning Bylaw. The
199 Applicant proposes to redevelop the properties located at 419 and 435 Andover Street by demolishing the existing
200 Ethan Allen and the Bliss Spa and Salon building and constructing two smaller buildings with a total square
201 footage of 10,852 SF to house new commercial tenants. Four businesses are proposed on the property: the existing
202 Bertucci's Restaurant, a coffee shop, a medical office, and a bank. Both the coffee shop and bank are proposed to
203 have drive-thru operations. The proposed design includes new site lights throughout the property as well as an
204 outdoor patio adjacent to the coffee shop,the installation of an improved stormwater mitigation system, and
205 improved landscaping on site. The parcels are located in the General Business zoning district.
206 ,I. Enright: This is the same applicant, with letters of authorization for Mark Johnson, Atty., to represent both
207 parties, as the prior proposal did. Other than the two lots proposed to remain (v. being combined)this application
208 is the same as the one recently withdrawn without prejudice. Two abutter comments carried over from the
209 previous application were sent to MassDOT and they have responded. Recommends reading tbein into the record
210 due to public hearing. Shared lot line runs directly is behind Bertucci's;existing condition to limited degree,
211 crossing more parking spaces than it did in the past. Building Commissioner agrees parking relief is needed for
212 this pre-existing, non-conforming condition. Described parking, lot line and setback condition. Planning board has
213 discretion for design standards and by Special Permit to modify the setback required for parking which is typically
214 3 ft. from a lot line for parking. Department review and stormwater management remains the same. Draft easement
215 and restriction document has been provided to ensure provisions are in place for shared parking and stormwater
216 management maintenance. Updated draft decisions(reflecting the cross easements) have been provided for the
217 Board's consideration.
218 E. Goldberg: Project is now one lot with easements; language is ready to be approved. Read abutter comments into
219 the record: (gty.2) S. Bedard-14 Highland Terrace; included MassDOT responses to those comments. Proposal
220 requires a MassDOT access permit. If we grant the permit tonight,there may be changes based on that permit
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Town of North Andover
PLANNING BOARD
Tuesday, M irch 1 d, 202.E_0 7p.tn.,_120 Mrtin Sheet Town Hall, Not•tlr Andover, MA 01845
221 requiring the applicant return to the Board for further approvals. Any eminent domain takings are not done by the
222 town; property owners would have to be fairly compensated for that.
223 Mark Johnson,Atty.: Introduced team and noted rninor edits to the draft decisions.
224 J. Simons: Have these easement documents been fully vetted? What happens if the bank tenant is speculative?
225 J.J. Er_I1_ight: A condition is included in the decision that the applicant would need to seek Town Counsel and DPW
226 review prior to the recording of the easement documents. A draft document needs to be submitted, reviewed and
227 then recorded. Chase Bank has submitted updated elevations. A different tenant other than a bank would likely
228 trigger return to the Board; based on a new tenant, parking and circulation may be dramatically different.
229 Kerry McCormack, Crosspoint Assoc.: Tenants identified on the plans have leases ready to be signed and are
230 ready for construction; Chase Bank(freestanding), Starbucks and a ConvenientMD.
231 K. Cormier: Inquired about draft decision condition#43, "Special Conditions"-drive-that lane monitoring; one-
232 time,for two hours seems insufficient. A lot of changes will happen at these intersections. More robust monitoring
233 is prudent, so that adjustments can be made.
234 J. Enright: Condition#43 is written how I constructed it; substitute highlighted language is what they suggest.
235 Shaun Kell_y,Vanasse Associates: We tailor the monitoring program to review drive-thru impacts during the
236 busiest hours,7-9 a.m. MassDOT monitoring programs,as part of their mitigation through MEPA, require one day
237 of analysis;we follow that framework; results won't vary that much by monitoring a couple of days. Queue lanes
238 get shorter after the breakfast peak period.
239 E. Goldberg: I like what is written; my biggest concern for this parcel is queueing and traffic.
240 M. Johnson,Attu.: Addressed minor edits to decision.
241 Board: Reviewed draft decisions.
242 MOTION: J. Simons made a motion to close the public hearing for 419,435 Andover Street, Crosspoint
243 Associates,North Andover, MA. K. Bargnesi seconded the motion. The vote was 5-0, unanimous in favor. Roll
244 Call vote: A. Preston voted yes. P. Boynton yes. K. Bargnesi voted yes. J. Simons voted yes. E. Goldberg voted
245 yes.
246 MOTION: J. Simons made a motion to approve the Common Driveway Special Permit for 419, 435 Andover St.,
247 Crosspoint Associates,North Andover, MA. A. Preston seconded the motion. The vote was 5-0, unanimous in
248 favor. Roll Call vote: A. Preston voted yes. R Boynton yes. K. Bargnesi voted yes. J. Simons voted yes. E.
249 Goldberg voted yes.
250 MOTION: J. Simons made a motion to approve the Site Plan Review& Parking Special Permit, as amended, for
251 419, 435 Andover St., Crosspoint Associates,North Andover, MA, A. Preston seconded the motion. The vote was
252 5-0, unanimous in favor. Roll Call vote: A. Preston voted yes. P. Boynton yes. K. Bargnesi voted yes. J. Simons
253 voted yes. E. Goldberg voted yes.
254
255 Royal Crest Estates (1 &28 Royal Crest Drive),Trinity Financial,Jim Keefe: Proposed Master
256 Redevelopment Plan for the property.
257 • Response to traffic related questions/comments
258 E. Goldberg: Traffic related abutter comments and MassDOT responses will be reviewed this evening. Traffic
259 engineers, Jeffrey Dirk,Vanasse&Associates&M. Kealey,VHB, applicant-J. Keefe&M. Lozano, and Board
260 may weigh in. MassDOT appeared before the Select Board last week, received feedback and comment which they
261 and are working on addressing before corning to this Board. [Clhair read abutter cojrartaerits and MassDOT
262 responses into the record]Collar and Hodor.
263 Matt Kealey,VHB: Traffic volume increases are available in our appendix diagrams that show peak hour traffic.
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Town of Nortlr Andover
PLANNING BOARD
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Tuesrla Ma1•ch 16 2021 OD 7 .m. 120 Maier Street Toswi M11 North Andover MA 01845
264 J. Enright: In your presentation summary on our website, it shows 3 eight in/3 right outs. Clarified there are only 2
265 right in/2 right outs. Summary online needs to be updated showing 2.
266 M. Lozano: This will be updated; confirmed current plan has two.
267 E. Goldberg What is the impact traffic anticipated at these 2 intersections at peak times?
268 M. Kealey: During the a.m. rr site access Driveway 2-29 entering/32 exiting, a site access Driveway 3- 42
269 exiting/39 entering, during weekday evening peak hour a site access Driveway 2-44 exiting/50 entering, and @
270 site access Driveway 3-43 exiting/59 entering. Saturday @ site access Driveway 2- 55 exiting/58 entering and at
271 site access Driveway 3- 63 exiting/74 entering.
272 Jeffrey Dirk, Vanasse&Assocs.: Confirmed that is the net"new"vehicle trips.
273 LK Goldberg.-Read abutter/residential comments raid MassDOT responses into the record]Tibaudo and Fortune.
274 M.Keatey: On large scale projects, we target a success rate of 10-15% reduction in traffic as the result of a robust
275 TDM program. We do not deduct those trips from the traffic increases we analyze. As part of the MEPA process,
276 MassDOT requires a traffic monitoring program including an evaluation of participation in the TDM program.
277 That is quantified post construction during that MassDur traffic monitoring program.
278 J. Dirk: That percentage is a typical modes/shift number you would expect. It really comes down to what the town
279 desires. We need to remove obstacles for people to use them and incentivize the111; out of pocket cost needs to be
280 reduced. The town can structure a benchmarking process that sets minimum thresholds and a way to get there.
281 J. Simons: Skeptical that North Andover can achieve that percentage; perhaps it works closer to the city. For years
282 I have been taking the train into Boston. I see an MVRTA bus every a.m. with rarely a single person on it;
283 skeptical of the model and believes people will not want to do that.
284 M. Lozano: Initiated conversations with MVRTA;excited about the opportunities to extend public transit directly
285 into our site as part of this plan. There is discussion of extending public bus lines into the site. There has been
286 discussion about creating a direct connection to the Regional Transit Authority's commuter coach service directly
287 to Boston from our site and providing a one-seat ride directly from the redevelopment into downtown Boston for
288 $5 each way. There would still be connection to the commuter rail; we are talking about initiating direct service
289 via dedicated commuter coach direct to downtown Boston. They discussed improving that service by utilizing
290 highway shoulders reducing trip time to under an hour. We are seeking transit alternatives for people.
291 E. Goldberg: Conservatively speaking, any percentages"taken-off'are not being considered in the traffic study,
292 reducing those numbers. I am also not sure how many people would use the transit authority; bicycles can be
293 successftil would have a large draw particularly if incentivized. The conversations you are having need to become
294 commitments.
295 P.Boynton: Skeptical about bike solution. What financial commitments would the applicant be willing to commit
296 to,to make a bike program work? What are examples in a comparable,suburban community to North Andover
297 where the bike solution has made a significant difference?Prefers a dedicated bus arrangement to the site. We are
298 a long way fi•o►n a commitment. Everything we are talking about seems to speak to the density of this proposal. 1
299 hear repeated concerns about the very high density of the project and the applicant has yet to address what is
300 driving it. We are addressing density by our conversations with public transportation without addressing the actual
301 density concerns.
302 M. Lozano: We are trying to create a more walkable, pedestrian-friendly environment. Discussed positive aspects
303 of bicycle use on site. We will look to implement"BlueBikes"or SharedBikes aspects; expects a lot of people to
304 own bikes. We are creating dedicated bicycle ways within the site that connect directly to the new shared use path
305 MassDOT is building as part of the corridor improvements; all new buildings include interior bike storage. We
306 want people to walk,ride bikes and consider various transit options.
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Town of North Andover
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PLANNING BOARD
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Tiresd{r_y, Match 16, 202164), 7 P.m., 120 Mani Street Tolvri Hall,Noi-th Andover, MA 0184_5
307 J. Simons: The single biggest thing you can do to increase walking and bike riding is to put a bridge across the
308 road to the college.At Villanova University,they bridged the highway to stimulate walking and bike riding.
309 J. Keefe: Minimum height of a bridge would be a minimum of 16 ft. 6"or higher. The ramp would need to be 250
310 to 300 ft. long. A ramp that long, at grade,would preclude people from using it and is not particularly attractive. It
311 is not a matter of cost,or whether it would fit on the site, it simply would not be used.
312 P. Boynton: I am hearing the flat grade on this site is not suitable to support this pedestrian bridge.
313 E. Goldberg: The grade warrants such a long ramp that pedestrians would rather walk across the road.
314 J. Enright: The bridge at the high school, spans four lanes, it is also a state highway. Its use is somewhat forced
315 because a fence was installed along the High School parcel tine. Jean to reach out to MassDOT about their
316 responses to the option of a bridge. It is repeatedly being asked throughout public comments. Award winning
317 bridge at Villanova University will be shared as an example for the record.
318 P.-Boynton: These extraordinary measures are being driven by the very high density of people proposed for this
319 site. If these measures to accommodate the high density are not possible, it calls into question whether the site can
320 support the proposed density.
321 J. Enright: I am receiving comments related to how many times will the crosswalk be in effect and the concern that
322 the frequency could impact the"flow"of cars on Rte. 114.
323 M. Kealey: Our analysis of that crossing takes into account the existing pedestrian calls for the Hawk signal. That
324 is part of our data collection. It is exclusive and called every signal cycle.
325 LE. Goldberg:Read abutter/resident comment into the record. AIassDOT cannot respond to this comment.]
326 Schaalman.
327 M. Kealey:.We obtained traffic studies for all form of those projects from the town.None of the study areas
328 for those projects overlaps with our study area. For any impact study,you focus on the intersections where you
329 think the project is going to have an appreciable impact; the traffic dissipates beyond that area. There are areas that
330 may not have a significant impact in traffic and that is where our background growth assumption comes into play;
331 we assume 1%growth per year for 7 years to assess that future condition to account for general increases in traffic
332 in the area.
333 J. Dirk: The increase in traffic within the study area that was evaluated as part of this project from those other
334 developments, would be equal to or less than the 1%growth rate. Those projects are"included" in the traffic study
335 by my means of the background traffic growth rate.
336 M. Kealey: We heard comments about"cut-thm"traffic on side streets off Rte. 114. We brought the issue up with
337 MassDOT who have acknowledged that discussion.
338 J. Dirk: It involves peak period turn restrictions to certain streets, there's ways to make the traffic slow down, curb
339 line reductions, making it not conducive to through traffic. Measures cart be taken to make vehicles remain on Rte.
340 114.
341 E. Goldberr~: [Read abutter/resident comments into the record and MassDOT responses into the record.]
342 Schaalman, Rudnicki,Arleque, Ceraso, Dennis, Dugan, Cook, McSweeney, Gangi (& others)and Salvatore.
343 [J. Enright read recently received abutter/residennt comments into the record..]O'Donnell and McGarry.
344 Responses addressed the following topics: Sufficiency of roadway network, MassDOT enhancements along Rte.
345 114 corridor,slowing traffic on cut-thru streets, net increase in traffic, lifespan of MassDOT improvements,
346 dedicated left turn lanes, footbridge, widening of sidewalks to accommodate volume, crosswalk analysis, Hawk
347 signal operations, mitigation measures,electric vehicle charging station infrastructure, emissions control, potential
348 for tunnel "under" Rte. 114, Merrimack college fixture growth plans, general future growth capacity, adaptive
349 traffic signal control technologies, reduction of queueing with right lanes, safety& impact to services will be
350 reviewed as part of the fiscal impact study.
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351 E. Goldberg: It will be helpful to invite someone from Merrimack College to an upcoming meeting regarding their
352 plans for growth.
353 J. Enright: Noted that building heights, view angles, a potential project scale model are all topics of interest that
354 are being requested. Information presented at these mectings is posted to the town website on the Community&
355 Economic Development webpage. The link is on the left side of the page; all documents are linked to that site for
356 public review.
357 [Con inued to the April 6, 2021 Planning Born d meelingl
358
359 MEETING MINUTES: Approval of the March 2, 2021 Planning Board meeting minutes.
360 MOTION: J. Simons made a motion to approve the March 2,2021 Planning Board meeting minutes. P. Boynton
361 seconded the motion. The vote was 3-0, unanimous in favor. Roll Call vote: P. Boynton voted yes. E. Goldberg
362 voted yes. J. Simons voted yes.
363
364 ADJOURNMENT
365 MOTION: J. Simons made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Motion was seconded by P. Boynton. The vote was
366 4-0, unanimous in favor. Meeting adjourned a 10:40 p.m. Roll Call vote: P. Boynton yes. A. Preston voted yes.
367 J. Simons voted yes. E. Goldberg voted yes.
368
369 MEETING MATERIALS: Planning Board Meeting Agenda March 16,2021,DRAFT Planning Board Meeting Minutes
370 March 2,2021,Staff Report:210316 Staff Report;ANR flan 65 Nutrner4-575 Salern St.:ANR App—575 Salem -65
371 Nutmeg,ANR App—Schwartz 575 Salem ST,ANR App—Cavanaugh 65 Nutmeg;3 Great Pond Road Elaine Finbur :
372 Abutter Comment:201114 Abutter Comment—Grainly,201114 Abutter Comment—Granily 2,201 124 Abutter Comment--
373 Donovan,2 10 108 Abutter Comment—Olsen NP Church,Application: 201026 3 GPR Application,200909 Site Plan---Floor
374 Plan,Continuance: 210223 Con't to March 16,210119 Con't to Feb.23,201215 Con't to Jan. 19,201124 Con't to Dec. 15,
375 Department Review: 201025 Conservation Comment,201026 DPW Operations Comment,201026 NAFD,201027 NAPD
376 Comment,201027 School Dept.Comment,201 103 Health Continents,201203 DPW Engineering Continent,210311 DPW
377 Operations—Final Comment,210311 Health-Comment,210311 NAFD—Final Comment,Pies—Trees: IMG—2646, IMG
378 2647,Revised Plan:210225 Spec Permit& Variance of Land,210310 Rev 3 GreatPond Site Plan; Annual Town Meeting
379 Zoning Bylaw Amendment„Articles/Planning Board Report: B4 Warrant Article:2103I6 Draft B4 Warrant Article;CDD2
380 Dimensional Table Warrant Article:210316 Draft CDD2 Table 2 Warrant Article;Historic Mill Area--Subdistrict A: 210316
381 Draft Historic Mill Area Warrant Article; Sign Bylaw:210316 Draft Sign Bylaw Warrant Article;Watershed Bylaw Warrant
382 Article: 210316 Draft WPD Bylaw Warrant Article;210316 Planning Board Report;0 Beechwood Drive,The Stubblebine
383 Co.: Stormwater Review:210225_I"Peer Review Beechwood Dr,Elevations: 201215 Elevations,210216 REV Elevations,
384 Department Review: 210305 Health Comment,210305 DPW Operations Comment,210222 NAFD Comment,210216
385 Conservation Comment,210212 NAPD Comment,210212 Building Comment,Application: SPR Special Permit Application,
386 Special Permit Application Parking Reduction, Letter of Authorization,Application 31968.00 Site Plans_REV2,2I0210
387 Waiver Request,210210 Application 31968.00_Storrnwater Report_REV00 clean,210202 Narrative,201214 Traffic and
388 Parking Memo;419,435 Andover Street,Crosspoint Associates:25%Design Drawings—MassDOT Andover St: 608095
389 Andover Street_25%,210316 MassDOT correspondence,Abutter Comment:210129 Abutter Comment—Bedard&Others,
390 210119 Abutter Continent-Bedard,210315 MassDOT resp to Bedard FINAL,Applications: Site Plan Review Application,
391 Parking Special Permit Application,Common Driveway Special Permit Application,2021-03-
392 05_CivilPlans LotClarification Stamped,2021-01-21_Andover St_Lot-Clarification Site Layout,Civil-Traffic Peer Review:
393 2020-12-0$ Exhibits Response-to-TEC Comments-1,201209 Resp to TEC civil-traffic 91,201215 T0758.12_Peer Review
394 #2,210128 Resp,to TEC civil-traffic#2,T0758.12^Peer Review#l,Cross Easement—Restrictions: Exhibit A-3-Easement
395 Plan,Thompsons Crosspoint 2021 Reciprocal Access Easement,210316 REV Thompsons Crosspoint 2021 Reciprocal
396 Access Easement_FINAL—town_RED, Department Review: 210224 Conservation Comment,210224 Health Comment,
397 210224 NAPD Comment,210225 Building Commissioner Comment,Draft Decisions:XX Common Drive Decision 419&
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398 435 Andover Street—draft,XX Decision 419&435 Andover Street-draft,Elevations: 201022 Building B Elevations-final,
399 201120 North Andover_Proposed Elevations_Building A,201208 Letter& Elevations,211 117 Chase Bank Elevations Pg 9-
400 12,2010025 Building A Elevations-final,Past Department Review.201025 Conservation Comment-andover st,201026
401 NAFD Comment,201027 DPW Operations Comment,201103 Health Comment,201105 Building Comment,201106 NAPD
402 Comment,201123 NAFD Comment Final Comment,201203 DPW Engineering Comment,210106 Building Comment,DPW
403 Operations Final Comment, Presentations:201124 Presentation 419-435 Andover St.,201215 Presentation 419-435 Andover
404 St.,Res .to Department Review: 2020-11-19 419-435-Andover-St DPW Fire-Cominent-Response, Storrnwater:20.9.22.-
405 MA Drainage Report,2020-12-08_14W_Response-to-Comments-1,201109 419-435 And. St. Stormwater Peer Review
406 Comment 1,201217 419-435 And. St. Stormwater Peer Review#2,201221 Boliler Response-to-Comments-2,20122 Final
407 HW 3rd Peer Review 419&435 Andover Street,Traffic_le Study: Oct.2020 8731 N Andover TIA,201221 Final Plan Set;
408 Royal Crest Estates 1 &28 Royal Crest Drive Trinity Financial Jim Keefe: Abutter Comment: 210304 Abutter
409 Comment-Cook,210305 Abutter Comment-Cook,210308 Abutter Comment-McGarry,210310 Abutter Comment-McGarry,
410 210316 Abutter Comment-McGarry,210316 Abutter Comment-O'Donnell,210316 Abutter Cormnent-O'Donnell,210316
411 Abutter Comment-Watters, MassDOT Rt 114 Improvement_Plan Comment:210308 Abutter Comment-McGarry,210310
412 Abutter Cornment-McGarry,210310 Resident Comment-Cullen,210312 Resident Comment-Consoli, Summary of Traffic
413 Related Comments:210316 Summary of Traffic Comments rev,210316 MassDOT Resp to Traffic Summary Comments.
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