Planners raise ADA, sidewalk concerns over Wakefield multifamily revisions; developer explains retaining‑wall constraints

At the March 23 work session staff (Mr. Morin) presented SPM2014-2026, a site-plan modification for the Wakefield multifamily development that would revise sidewalks, relocate a playground, add a grill pad and dog park and add an extra ADA parking space.

"Staff does not believe this is correct because pedestrian circulation is vital," Mr. Morin said, voicing concern about proposed sidewalk removal and limited accessibility to amenities. He cited the importance of accessible sidewalks for people with disabilities, the elderly and families with strollers.

Adam Kronk (Kronk Engineering) told commissioners the changes were driven by retaining-wall construction and grading. He said the retaining wall as constructed had a batter (an angled block wall) that reduced available width for a safe sidewalk in two locations and that one walkway reached an 8% slope and was not ADA‑compliant as built. "So, anyway, that's a little bit of the justification," Kronk said, adding that where practical the design team could make a ramp or provide an accessible route from the north side.

Commissioners asked whether the retaining walls had received the necessary permits; engineering staff (speaker 12/13) said most had been approved and that retaining walls now require third‑party engineering review and permits. One commissioner said it would be helpful to know whether the city had approved a particular wall because approval could indicate shared responsibility for the resulting constrained space.

The commission asked the applicant for follow-up information and left the item off consent to allow staff to verify whether the retaining walls had required separate approval and to confirm accessible routes and ramp alternatives. No vote occurred at the work session.