Village Growth Project

Discussion Session #2 (2/15/06) – Summary

Focus Areas: Village Core & Commerce Park

Discussion Questions

1) Do you think future development should occur within the existing village core FIRST, before other areas like Ballard’s Corner or Mechanicsville Road?

2) With the exception of the historic “Main Street” section of Route 116, are you amenable to seeing 3 or 4 story buildings in the village area – either new buildings or redesigns to existing buildings?

3) Do you think the village growth center should include some truly affordable housing? Affordable means the price is capped so that annual cost does not exceed 30% of gross income for those earning less than the state median income. Frequently this involves partnering with non-profit groups like Housing Vermont, Burlington Community Land Trust, etc. If yes, where should it be located, and should it be focused in certain areas, mixed in all neighborhoods, a little of both?

4) Would you support more residential housing mixed into the commercial area in/around Commerce Park?

5) Do you think the Town should review the architectural design of new and redesigned village area buildings? If yes, what kinds of design features do you like and dislike?

Major Themes (see meeting minutes for details from each discussion group)

· Focus new development first within the existing village core and adjacent areas with existing municipal infrastructure (e.g., water, sewer). Consider in-fill on vacant land within the existing village core and Commerce Park area, and re-use or adapt historic buildings instead of tearing them down. For expansion, consider the Mechanicsville Road corridor where Town water and sewer already exist. Not sure that expansion at Ballard’s Corner is a good idea.

· Taller buildings are reasonable in the village; however, visualization is very important in order to judge appropriateness and to ensure taller additions or new buildings don’t overwhelm existing stock. 3 story buildings are allowed now and are OK. 4 story buildings might be possible if properly designed and sited – need to visualize in order to know. 5 story buildings would be out of character.

· Affordable housing is needed and should be included in future residential development in the village. This housing component should be integrated throughout the village to encourage a blend of housing types and diverse neighborhoods. Making affordable housing happen is difficult, and the Town should be aware of all possible tools and partners on this front.

· Additional residential development within Commerce Park and the surrounding area is a good idea.

· Architectural design standards could be useful, but would be very difficult to establish and ultimately are quite subjective. Furthermore, it may be more important to ensure energy efficient and quality construction rather than focusing on the exterior aesthetics of buildings. More visualization exercises would be needed prior to developing any architectural design standards. It may also be easier to get more attractive new construction by offering incentives to developers. It also may be easier to define what the community does not like as opposed to being specific about what we do like.