2014-04-29
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
MAIN STREET STREETSCAPE PUBLIC INFORMATION MEETING
MINUTES OF TUESDAY, APRIL 29, 2014
234 KENSINGTON ROAD, BERLIN
PECK LIBRARY COMMUNITY ROOM, 7:00 P.M.
APPROVED
MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE:
David Cyr, Chairman Steven McLarty
Michael Baczewski Sean Taylor
Peter Campanelli
ABSENT:
Ed Egazarian, Vice Chairman
Bob Sisti, Treasurer
STAFF:
James Mahoney, Economic Development Director
Sheel Patel, Recording Secretary
GUESTS:
Jane Didona, DALA
Ron Dagon, Luchs Consulting Engineers, LLC
Director Mahoney called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm.
1. PUBLIC INFORMATION SESSION
Jane Didona, of DALA, went over the existing layout for Main Street. She then
presented the proposed concept plan for the area. A major goal for the new
layout is to make Main Street more pedestrian friendly. This will be done by
adding a median to the road and potentially ornamental street lights, planters,
and trees.
Director Mahoney provided an update regarding the Façade Grant Program. So
far, four projects have been approved. Pastry Shoppe used the façade program
process to help with updating their building.
The Train Station Boulevard grant was awarded to the Town of Berlin in early
April. Bidding will begin in mid- May, awarded in August, and construction will
begin in the fall.
2. QUESTION AND ANSWER DISCUSSION
One business owner asked if the planters that will potentially be installed be
moveable. Jane Didona stated that they could be made moveable or they could
be attached to the wall, depending on their location.
Another business owner asked if underground wiring for the utility poles was
an option. Director Mahoney stated that it has been looked into but the cost for
doing so would be too high.
Mr. Dennis Kern asked what would stop weeds from growing in the medians if
the materials are permeable. Jane Didona stated that it depends on the
materials that are used. Brick is more likely to have weeds grow through it.
3. DISCUSSION OF ZONING AMENDMENTS RELATED TO THE POCD
Director Mahoney presented the zoning amendments to the commission. These
covered the Village District, Kensington Overlay, and TEDS 10- Berlin
Turnpike, south of Meadow Lane.
4. ADJOURNMENT
Commissioner Campanelli motioned to adjourn the meeting at 8:47 pm.
Commissioner McLarty seconded and the motion was unanimously passed.
Respectfully submitted,
Sheel Patel, Secretary