Commission approves Volkswagen dealership façade and second-floor office additions with standard conditions

The Stratford Zoning Commission approved modifications to the Current Volkswagen dealership at 2785 Main Street, including a refreshed sales floor, a squared-off second-floor addition for offices, new metal siding and enhanced landscaping, subject to standard conditions.

Architect Joe Mingalalal described the proposed work as a corporate refresh that would remove the existing mansard roof, add metal panel siding and provide a new second-floor office/ storage area. The architectural-review board (ARB) reviewed the design and offered minor recommendations; the applicant agreed to comply. Planning staff recommended standard conditions: written ARB confirmation of final plan compliance, a licensed engineer's MS4 stormwater compliance letter, conservation superintendent sign-off on the enhanced landscaping, and town-engineer sign-off on mechanical/utility items before building permits are issued.

Commissioners also urged the applicant to coordinate sidewalk/greenway improvements near the property's Main Street corner to help accommodate pedestrian and bicycle connections, and the motion to approve with the listed planning-and-engineering conditions passed 5-0.