2012-06-27 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Cheryl Adelstein with Washington University introduced the project to the Plan Commission and stated they intend to return to the Plan Commission in August. She stated that the drawings to be presented are preliminary. Ms. Adelstein summarized the reasons for the project and explained the project site and redevelopment plans. She stated that the project includes $ 80 million of new development and the project will help to bring together the west and east sides of The Loop. She stated the plan supports the Parks and Open Space Plan and meets the recommendations of the Delmar Loop Retail Plan and Development Strategy, a joint effort from Washington University and the LSBD. Ms. Adelstein stated their commitment to building LEED Silver and integrating the project with a variety of City initiatives. She summarized the timeline to date. Randy Wilmot with William Rawn Associates, project architect, stated their other partner was Tao and Lee Associates. Mr. Wilmot provided a description of the architectural character of the project, which includes four distinct building areas. He stated there would be a mixed-use portion and residential portions. He explained that the area is on the southern edge of the Parkview Gardens neighborhood and summarized the historical context within Parkview Gardens by building type. Mr. Wilmot explained the proposed buildings; that they propose to include a series of courtyards, pedestrian connection from Enright to Delmar, residential unit access to the pedestrian mews, and gathering space. He showed and explained the proposed building elevation drawings. Art Ackerman with Washington University summarized some of the further details pertaining to the retail and residential elements of the development. He stated that 22,000 square feet of new retail space is proposed, explained that the traffic impact will be minimal, and discussed potential for parking in the City parking garage. Mr. Ackerman explained the proposed design of the apartments, designed for students looking for more independent living, and that the University will provided supervision. He stated that the proposed parking ratio is 0.5, 1 space per 2 tenants, which is the current ratio for the neighborhood; a ratio that works well for their off campus housing. He stated their strategy is to discourage parking and encourage students to not bring cars due to the convenient location and proximity to Ackert Walkway and Skinker Boulevard. He added that it is close to the Metro stop and the University provides Metro passes for students. Mr. Ackerman summarized the sustainability features within the development including efforts to address rainwater, sun shade control along the south facing side of the development, and an energy conservation device in each apartment that turns off lights and the air conditioning when residents leave the apartment. Mr. Halpert asked for questions and/or comments. Mr. Senturia asked about the A/C shutting off when students leave on a hot day and that would be a concern. Mr. Ackerman stated it was a very sophisticated system and they would have control over the entire system, including the ability to override it. Mr. Senturia stated he used to have an office in that area and there were issues between commercial buildings on Delmar and residential buildings on Enright, specifically related to parking. He asked if there would be parking on the alley. tm; E