Planning board continues 311 Broadway hearing after accessibility, unit and paving revisions

Suzanne Levine, project architect with CGA Studio, reviewed revisions to the 311 Broadway site plan and asked the board for feedback on remaining items. Levine said the team eliminated a rear stair run and introduced a ramp to create a fully accessible entrance and easier access to bike storage. She also said the first-floor unit has been designated the required affordable unit, a two-bedroom with private outdoor space.

Levine told the board they preserved seven units and seven parking spaces by converting a prior third-floor three-bedroom and roof deck into two units with private roof decks. On paving, she said the team proposed permeable asphalt (because gravel is not allowed in the district) and that civil engineer Ralph Mastromonico provided a calculation showing comparable infiltration with proper underlayment; she said a letter with the calculation was supplied to staff.

Board members asked about maintenance and enforcement for permeable paving. Levine said the team anticipated a yearly maintenance agreement and described an annual vacuum system to keep the pavement functioning. Planning staff said the requirement and inspection could be incorporated into a resolution and operating permit.

The board also discussed timing for affordable-unit covenant review with county staff; one board member asked for the county’s template for covenants so the applicant’s attorney could prepare recordable restrictions to avoid a delayed certificate of occupancy.

After hearing no further open items, the board voted to continue the public hearing to the April 2 meeting so staff and consultants can review the amended plans and the applicant can submit the required covenant documentation and final paving details.