HomeMy Public PortalAboutCombined RMUD Files (4Rpts) Town of Watertown
Town Council Committee on Economic Development and Planning
Meeting: December 15, 2015
Report: February 8, 2016
The Committee met Tuesday December 15, 2015 at 6:30 pm in the Watertown Savings Bank Room at the
Watertown Free Public Library to make recommendations to the full Town Council on the proposed
Regional Mixed-Use (RMUD) zoning ordinance text amendment that was presented at the December 1,
2015 Public Hearing. (see httD://www.watertown-ma.Liov/DocumentCenter_/View/18151 and
httD://www.watertown-ma.Liov/DocumentCenter/View/18149)
Attending were: Committee members Steven Corbett, Chair,Vincent Piccirilli,Vice Chair,and Susan Falkoff,
Secretary; Planning Director Stephen Magoon; Senior Planner Gideon Schreiber; Town Council President
Mark Sideris, Councilors Aaron Dushku,Angeline Kounelis,Anthony Palomba, Kenneth Woodland;
Councilors-Elect Michael Dattoli and Lisa Feltner; and approximately 60 members of the public.
Mr. Magoon distributed a document(attached) with some proposed changes to the December 1, 2015
proposal,that were based on comments submitted by members of the Town Council and the public.
For each item,committee members were given an opportunity to ask questions, followed by comments
from the public,discussion by committee members and a vote.The votes were as follows (underlining
indicates the changes from the previous document):
1. Attachment page 1:Added to 5.05 (p):
"At a minimum.the allowance for reduced setbacks shall include consideration of improvinv adiacent
public parkland with public access and amenities for community uses in Dron_ osed Drivate oDen sn_ ace
within a Droiect."
Accepted 3-0 as written by staff.
2. Attachment page 2: Section 5.18.c (7) Paragraph 2 amended to read:
"There shall be a 100-foot wide open space area parallel to Greenough Boulevard.Throueh a Master Plan
Special Permit. existing structures may be expanded within this 100-foot area but in no instance may an
addition encroach closer to Greenough Boulevard than the existing structure,and.as Dart of a Master Plan.
a reauest may be made for existing or new buildings to encroach uD to twentv-five (251 feet into this area.
The square footaee used within the open sDace area shall be replaced by twice as much Dervious oDen
sDace elsewhere within the Master Plan site.and contie-uous to Dublically accessible oD_ en sD_ ace. This
increased open sDace is in addition to the 20% reauired oDen sDace."
Accepted 2-1 as written by staff,with Councilor Corbett voting No because he felt the 100-foot limitation is
arbitrary,given that the buffer is 50 feet at athenahealth.
3. Attachment page 2: Suggested language to 5.18(g)(2)k regarding Authority and Procedure,Application.
5.18(a)(2)k. ODen Space Dlan.including location.size. characteristics (Dervious vs
imDerviousl.uses and Dublic accessibility of all oDen sDace areas.
Accepted 3-0 as written by staff.
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Committee on Economic Development and Planning, RMUD Report for Meeting December 15,2015
4. Attachment page 2: Section 5.18 (a) Intent and Purpose 7) amended to read:
"Use'green'building practices that encourage energy efficiency,manage storm water.Drotect the riparian
habitat and are planned,designed,constructed,and managed to minimize adverse environmental impacts."
Accepted 3-0 as amended by the committee.
S. Attachment page 2:Add new Section 5.18.c.8 d) for setbacks suggested by staff:
5.18.c.8-Setbacks: dl Anv structure within fiftv 1501 feet of Open Space Conservancv f0SCI zoned land
shall be required to incorporate aDDroDriate setbacks.step backs.and/or other techniques.in keeDina with
adopted Design Guidelines.to mitigate Dotential impacts on environmentally sensitive areas.At a
minimum.any Droposed structures areater than fiftv five (551 feet in height within this area shall have
additional height step backed a minimum of fifteen (151 feet from the structure/buildina_'s main facade
facing an OSC boundary.
Accepted 3-0 as amended by the committee to add"facing an OSC boundary'.
6. Attachment page 2 &3:Additions to Section 5.18.c.5.b.regarding building height,suggested by staff:
5.18.c.5.b.Maximum height of building: For new construction, 55 feet by Special Permit or 79 feet by
Master Plan Special Permit,or,by Master Plan Special Permit within a defined mixed-use project using
adopted Design Guidelines and the allowed FAR of 2.0 to determine height uD to a maximum of 130 feet.
Drovided the Droiect includes a diversitv of building heights.
Accepted 3-0 with changes by staff.
The Committee voted 3-0 to continue the discussion of the remaining proposed amendments at a later date.
The meeting adjourned at 8:45 pm
This report prepared by Susan Falkoff and submitted by Vincent Piccirilli
Page 2 of 2
DCDP Combined Comments and Suggested Language
12/15/2015
The document includes comments from individual Councilors, staff
commentary, and actual ordinance language. Staff suggestions are
included in red, and ordinance lanquage is also underlined.
1. Open Space Buffers, Plans and Step backs:
S. Falkoff Comments: Keep the 100' buffer for Greenough Blvd but if the
applicant can demonstrate that encroaching on this open space would lead to a
significantly better project, the square footage that is used must be replaced by
twice as much permeable open space elsewhere. This increased open space is
in addition to the 20% open space required.
Add a buffer around Arsenal Park. Include language to encourage improving the
park and integrate it better into the surroundings, perhaps in section 2.61
DCDP Discussion —An important component of safe and welcoming parks
includes "eyes on the park" which can be provided by residential uses
adjacent to park lands. An option to address the concerns noted above
while preserving the ability to activate park lands would be to modify Note
P, to limit develop within a buffer and encourage new open space. It is also
crucial that private sites that are being redeveloped plan for successful
public and private accessible open space and look to the context of the
surrounding areas and public opens space to ensure improved open space
networks throughout the RMUD zone.
The language originally proposed by J. Bockian suggests a buffer be
created near Arsenal Park. The language would require a 100' buffer for all
new buildings. This could have ramifications for redevelopment of the
Arsenal Mall buildings as well as other sites. The Master Plan process
addresses some of the concerns and other buffer language should be
considered under Note P.
DCDP Suggested Language considering Falkoff and Bockian suggestions -
Section 5.05(p) No residential or mixed commercial residential structure shall be
allowed within twenty-five (25) feet of any OSC district boundary and no industrial or
commercial structure within fifty (50)feet of an OSC district boundary if it is located on a
parcel greater than twenty-five thousand (25,000) square feet; if less than twenty-five
thousand (25,000) square feet the required district setback shall apply, except in the
RMUD.
Specifically, in the RMUD, by Special Permit, a project may incorporate publically
accessible open space to offset required setbacks, with reduced setbacks to be no less
than existing adjacent buildings on the same lot or adjacent lots. At a minimum, the
allowance for reduced setbacks shall include consideration of improvinq adiacent
public parkland with public access and amenities for community uses in proposed
private open space within a project.
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DCDP Combined Comments and Suggested Language
12/15/2015
Section 5.18.c (7) Minimum Open Space: All new developments shall have at least 20
percent (20%) of the total site area devoted to Open Space; required setbacks shall be
considered as part of the total area for Open Space. The required Open Space shall not
be used for parking, loading, or roadway purposes. Fifty percent (50%) of the required
Open Space shall be publicly accessible.
There shall be a 100-foot wide open space area parallel to Greenough Boulevard.
Throuqh a Master Plan Special Permit, existing structures may be expanded within
this 100-foot area, but in no instance may an addition encroach closer to Greenough
Boulevard than the existing structure, and as part of a Master Plan, a reauest may be
made for existinq or new buildings to encroach up to twentv-five (25) feet into this
area. The square footaqe used within the open space area shall be replaced by
twice as much pervious open space elsewhere within the Master Plan site, and
contiquous to publically accessible open space. This increased open space is in
addition to the 20% required open space.
2. OPEN SPACE PLANS: (g) Authority and Procedure:2) Application: [add]
5.18(q)(2)k. Open Space plan, includinq location, size, characteristics (pervious vs
impervious), uses and public accessibilitv of all open space areas.
3. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: SECTION 5.18
(a) Intent and Purpose
7) Encourage Smart Growth and Low Impact Development using "green"
building practices that encourage energy efficiency, manacle storm
water, protect the riparian habitat and are planned, designed,
constructed, and managed to minimize adverse environmental impacts.
4. STEP BACKS:
S. Falkoff Comment: Add stepback requirements for tall buildings that are either
on the street or directly abutting the river. Perhaps make the language parallel to
the provisions in PSCD 5.16 (6) D and E.
DCDP suqqestion —Add a new Section within Section 5.18.c.8-Setbacks:
d) Any structure within fiftv (50) feet of Open Space Conservancv (OSC) zoned
land shall be required to incorporate appropriate setbacks, step backs, and/or
other techniques, in keeping with adopted Desiqn Guidelines, to mitiqate potential
impacts on environmentally sensitive areas. At a minimum, anv proposed
structures greater than fiftv five (55) feet in heiqht within this area shall have
additional heiqht step backed a minimum of fifteen (15) feet from the structure/
buildinq's main facade.
5. HEIGHT:
Several comments have been received regarding concerns related to
building height. Staff supports the concept of considering greater building
height as part of a Master Plan submittal, but understand the concern of no
limitations, and support a discussion of a maximum.
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DCDP Combined Comments and Suggested Language
12/15/2015
5.18.c.5.b. Maximum height of building: For new construction, 55 feet by Special Permit
or 79 feet by Master Plan Special Permit, or; by Master Plan Special Permit within a
defined mixed-use project using adopted Design Guidelines and the allowed FAR of 2.0
to determine height up to a maximum of 130 feet, provided the proiect includes a
diversity of buildinq heiqhts.
6. MASTER PLAN PROCESS and PERMIT:
Various comments amending the language are included below
Section 5.18(a) Intent and Purpose (modify the following sections)
2) Allow development at a density, scale and character appropriate to define a corridor
that is a major gateway for the Town; Additional height may be appropriate in such
Gateway Locations where consistent with Watertown's economic development goals,
and the adopted Design Guidelines, as they may appropriately apply to development in
the RMUD: Additional densitv and/or reduced parkina space requirements may be
appropriate in the District where consistent with the goal of reducinq traffic
conqestion and improvinq multi-user transit services and in compliance with a
Transportation Demand Manaqement policv adopted by the Town.
3) Enhance quality of life, including promoting the development of a high quality public
realm:
• which is aesthetically pleasinq and consistent with Watertown's Design
Guidelines
• that provides a well-articulated pedestrian environment which implements
Complete Street concepts and adopted Complete Streets Policies
• that promotes porous frontaqes which create connections to surrounding
neighborhoods and the Charles River
• which includes public art.
7)Encourage Smart Growth and Low Impact Development using "green" building
practices that encourage energy efficiency, manage stormwater, protect the riparian
habitat, and are planned, designed, constructed, and managed to minimize adverse
environmental impacts.
8) Encourage development that accommodate and promote multi-modal access.
Section 5.18.g.2 -Application: A Petitioner proposing to construct or substantially alter
two or more buildinqs, includinq structured parkincL may seek approval of the
overall project through a Master Plan Special Permit. An application for a Master Plan
Special Permit shall include, at a minimum, for each proposed new building, structural
alteration of an existing building, or principal use outside of a building:
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DCDP Combined Comments and Suggested Language
12/15/2015
(modify Section b. as follows)
Section 5.18.q.2.b. Building elevations showing principal building entrances, overall
building massing, rooflines, and general fenestration patterns and will require multiple
three-dimensional elevations; Applications for one or more buildinqs qreater than
79' in height shall include desiqn details for such buildinq(s) sufficient to enable a
decision whether height above 79' is appropriate given the massing of the
proposed buildinq(s) and the location in relation to other buildings, streets and
open spaces, includinq public open spaces adiacent to the site.
7. MINOR AMENDMENTS
Why was the language about defining substantial changes dropped from this
draft? Question addressed, no amendment requested. DCDP Staff
response -This criteria was too broad at 10% and it is standard practice to
request a review of changes by Planning Staff as to whether a project will
require further Board review to determine if a change is substantial.
8. TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENTS:
Comments from Councilor Falkoff and Dushku.
Amend the following section:
ARTICLE II DEFINITIONS
[add] SECTION 2.82 TRANSPORTATION DEMAND MANAGEMENT PLAN (or TDM
Plan
A set of procedures, policies and practices which, when taken as a whole, are
intended to reduce the number of sinqle occupant vehicle trips travelinq to or
from a site, and which includes quantifiable qoals and a plan for the collection of
data to measure achievement of goals.
SECTION 5.18 REGIONAL MIXED USE DISTRICT [RMUD]
(second paragraph) As the Town's primary commercial corridor, the eastern portion of
Arsenal Street has some of the largest retailers in the region. With sufficient private
and public infrastructure thisT#i s area warrants greater density in light of the size of
the geography and its catalytic and transformative potential for the region. The scale of
development in this area merits greater height, massing and signage requirements for
new construction commensurate with its role as a regional attraction and destination.
New section 5.18 (h) Circulation: Special consideration shall be qiven to
infrastructure and desiqn that will create direct public bicvcle and pedestrian path
connections with adiacent public bicvcle or pedestrian paths, and that minimizes
continuous linear frontaqe separatinq such paths.
Traffic Safetv and Infrastructure Maintenance Fund:
Include Bockian language re: Traffic safety and Maintenance fund (why had it
been dropped?). DCDP Comment: This addresses only intersections and is
outdated in its entirety. The current review processes includes a broader
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DCDP Combined Comments and Suggested Language
12/15/2015
approach to traffic improvements and includes more mitigation than
required by this Section.
Councilor Dushku comments-
a. Require TMA membership for developments over a certain size.
Staff recommends that any Master Plan Special Permit will
have to address TMA as part of their application.
b. As a requirement for developments along MBTA routes wishing to
build to heights over 5 stories/55 feet or to an FAR over 1.5, the
development must provide substantial transit infrastructure
improvements that will speed bus passage through the corridor
(e.g. an off-bus fare collection station, dedicated transit/HOV lanes,
traffic signal prioritization technology, etc). While rider amenities
like shelters and furniture are also encouraged, these are not
deemed as applicable under this requirement.
Staff would not assume that the solutions mentioned are
always preferred, or at the control of an applicant, so while we
agree that projects should and will contribute to
improvements, we would not suggest the language as drafted.
c. Require dedicated and reserved parking spaces for vanpool and
bike commuter parking for new developments over a certain size.
Aspects of this also may be a good idea in certain situations,
but staff wouldn't make this a blanket requirement, and
instead would support this where appropriate on a case by
case basis.
9. Bicvcle access-
d. Require accompanying off-street bike lanes along all new streets
and driveways over a certain length. Not always appropriate, so
would amend the suggestion to "where appropriate."
e. Require the creation of separated and well-demarcated bicycle
lanes on Arsenal Street, Arlington Street and Coolidge Road for
any new developments along those major streets. While a good
goal, creation of dedicated bike lanes need to be done on a
broader scale than individual projects. Language could be
added to do so where part of a broader network planned by the
Town.
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DCDP Combined Comments and Suggested Language
12/15/2015
10.Parkinq-
f. Require unbundling of parking costs for rental or purchased
housing units in new residential areas, Add language for large
mixed use projects.
g. Require parking lot ingress/egress counter technology in new
parking areas (structured & surface) Need to be cognizant of
limitations, i.e. surface lots with multiple entrances, but can
work well for structured parking.
h. Require paid parking in commercial areas. Is not practical in all
situations, shouldn't be blanket ordinance language.
11.UTILITY LINES-
Require underground utility lines on all new developments as per previous
council referral to PW committee. If not possible to do on a parcel-by-
parcel basis, create a fund that developers should pay into for a future
corridor-wide project. Developers usually are unable to bury lines for
their frontage alone, so this is appropriate to consider on a larger
scale, and therefore can also be funded through one of the
mechanisms that the Council is already considering, however
projects will do this internal to their site, consistent with eventual
burying of lines. The funding options the Town is considering
include funding the improvements with property owner participation,
but until the Town decides how to proceed it is premature to require
this as a matter of zoning.
12.SIGNAGE-
Require way-finding signage for multi-use paths, parklands and transit
stops within and around new developments over a certain size. Staff
supports this, and envision it being addressed through the signage
master plan.
13.AFFORDABLE HOUSING
Watertown Housinq Partnership suggested language
Inset at Section 5.18, subsection (q) and re-letter existing section (a) to become
section (h):
(g) "Affordable Housing: An application for a Master Plan Special Permit shall provide at
least fifteen percent (15%) of the total dwelling units as affordable housing and otherwise
be consistent with the requirements of Section 5.07." While staff agrees with the
sentiment to increase affordable housing, we believe that this is a policy
that is appropriately applied Town wide, and applying it to only one zoning
district could create an unfair advantage in the marketplace.
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Town of Watertown
Town Council Committee on Economic Development and Planning
Meeting: January 23, 2016
Report: February 8, 2016
The Committee met Saturday January 23, 2016 at 2:00 pm in the Watertown Savings Bank Room at the
Watertown Free Public Library to make recommendations to the full Town Council on the proposed
Regional Mixed-Use (RMUD) zoning ordinance text amendment. This was a continuation of the December
15, 2015 meeting.
Attending were: Committee members Susan Falkoff, Chair, Kenneth Woodland,Vice Chair,and Vincent
Piccirilli, Secretary; Senior Planner Gideon Schreiber; Town Council President Mark Sideris, Councilors
Michael Dattoli,Aaron Dushku,Angeline Kounelis,Anthony Palomba; and approximately 30 members of
the public.
The Committee continued where it left off reviewing the document from December 15, 2015 (which is
attached to the report of that meeting). For each item, committee members were given an opportunity to
ask questions,followed by comments from the public,discussion by committee members and a vote.The
votes were as follows (underlining indicates the changes from the previous document):
1. Review the boundaries of the proposed RMUD:
Based on comments received from the public since the last meeting,the Committee was asked to look at
scaling back the boundaries to include only the parcels south of Arsenal St. The staff recommended that the
boundaries remain as shown in the Comprehensive Plan.
Voted 3-0 to keep the boundaries as shown in the December 1, 2015 proposal.
2. Attachment page 3: Section 5.18 (a)(2) Intent and Purpose amended by staff to add:
";Additional density and/or reduced parking space requirements may be appropriate in the District where
consistent with the goal of reducing traffic conLyestion and improving multi-user transit services and in
compliance with anv Transportation Demand Management policv adopted by the Town"
Accepted 3-0 as amended by the committee to change"a"to "any".
3. Attachment page 3: Section 5.18 (a)(3) Intent and Purpose amended by staff:
3) Enhance quality of life,including promoting the development of a high quality public realm:
• which is aesthetically pleasing and consistent with Watertown's Design Guidelines
•that provides a well-articulated pedestrian environment which implements Complete Street
concepts and adopted Complete Streets Policies
• that promotes porous frontages which create connections to surrounding neighborhoods and the
Charles River
• which includes public art.
Accepted 3-0 as written by staff.
4. Attachment page 3: Section 5.18 (a)(7): This was covered in the December 15 meeting,so the Committee
felt no further action is required.
Page 1 of 3
Committee on Economic Development and Planning, RMUD Report for Meeting January 23,2016
S. At the request of the public the next item was taken up out of order:
Attachment page 6: Section 5.18 insert new section (g)Affordable Housing:
This is a proposal from the Watertown Housing Partnership to add 15%Affordable Housing in the RMUD,
where the rest of Watertown it is 12.5%.
The Committee felt that this issue is too broad to be considered by just the three members,and needs a
fuller discussion by the entire Council and broader input from the public.
Motion by the Committee Voted 3-0: To refer to the full Town Council the discussion of increasing the
Affordable Housing in the Watertown Zoning Ordinance to 15%.
6. Attachment page 3: Section 5.18 (a)(8) Intent and Purpose amended by staff:
"8) Encourage development that accommodate and promote multi-modal access."
Accepted 3-0 as written by staff.
7.Attachment page 3: Section 5.18.g.2 Application: proposed change to "two or more buildings"
Voted 3-0 to not accept the change and keep original language.
8.Attachment page 4: Section 5.18.g.2.b.Application: amended by staff to add:
"Applications for one or more buildings greater than 79'in height shall include desiLyn details for such
buildinafs) sufficient to enable a decision whether heiaht above 79'is appropriate given the massing of the
proposed buildingfs) and the location in relation to other buildings.streets and open spaces. including
public open spaces adiacent to the site."
Accepted 3-0 as written by staff.
9.Attachment page 4: Minor Amendments: The Committee felt no action is required for this.
10.Attachment page 4: Section 2.82 Definition proposed by staff:
"SECTION 2.82 TRANSPORTATION DEMAND MANAGEMENT PLAN for TDM Plan)
A set of procedures.policies and practices which.when taken as a whole. are intended to reduce the
number of single occupant vehicle trips traveling to or from a site.and which includes.but not be limited
to.auantifiable L-oals and a Dlan for the collection of data to measure achievement of L-oals."
Accepted 3-0 as amended by the committee to change "includes"to "includes,but not be limited to,".
11.Attachment page 4: Section 5.18 second paragraph: Clarification on infrastructure:
SECTION 5.18 REGIONAL MIXED USE DISTRICT [RMUD]
(second paragraph)As the Town's primary commercial corridor,the eastern portion of Arsenal Street has
some of the largest retailers in the region.With sufficient Drivate and Dublic infrastructure.this area
warrants greater density in light of the size of the geography and its catalytic and transformative potential
for the region.The scale of development in this area merits greater height,massing and signage
requirements for new construction commensurate with its role as a regional attraction and destination.
Accepted 3-0 as written by staff.
Page 2 of 3
Committee on Economic Development and Planning, RMUD Report for Meeting January 23,2016
12.Attachment page 4: Section 5.18 new section (h) Circulation proposed by staff:
"5.18 (hl Circulation: Special consideration shall be given to infrastructure and desien that will create
direct public bicvcle and pedestrian Dath connections with adiacent Dublic bicycle or Dedestrian Daths.and
that minimizes continuous linear frontage senaratina such Daths."
Accepted 3-0 as written by staff.
13.Attachment page 4&5: Traffic safety and Maintenance fund
Staff explained this is an obsolete part of the zoning ordinance. The Committee felt no action is needed.
14.Attachment page 5: Dushku Comment a) TMA: The Committee felt no action is needed as TMA is
proceeding,and is subject to an upcoming Ad-hoc Transportation Committee Meeting.
15.Attachment page 5: Dushku Comment b) Transit Improvements: The Committee felt a discussion of
town-wide Traffic Demand Management issues should be taken up at the Council level.
Motion by the Committee Voted 3-0: To refer to the Ad-hoc Transportation Committee the discussion of
town-wide Traffic Demand Management issues.
16.Attachment page 5: Dushku Comment c) Reserved parking: Withdrawn. No action.
15.Attachment page 5: Dushku Comments d) &e) Bicycle access:Withdrawn. Part of Complete Streets. No
action.
16.Attachment page 6: Dushku Comments f) &g) Parking: Councilor Falkoff would like staff to provide
feedback on these items for discussion on January 28.
17.Attachment page 6: Dushku Comment h) Paid Commercial Parking: The Committee felt this was
unfeasible. No action taken.
18.Attachment page 6: Dushku Comment Utility Lines: This is subject to ongoing Committee meetings. No
action needed.
19.Attachment page 6: Dushku Comment Signage: Councilor Falkoff would like staff to provide feedback on
this item for discussion on January 28.
Next steps: Councilor Falkoff stated that a new draft document for discussion will be prepared by the DCDP
for the next meeting to be held January 28. Councilors and members of the public are welcome to submit
comments to the DCDP,no later than 8:00 am Tuesday January 26,to be included in the next draft for
discussion.
The meeting adjourned at 4:30 pm
This report prepared by Vincent Piccirilli
Page 3 of 3
Town of Watertown
Town Council Committee on Economic Development and Planning
Meeting: January 28, 2016
Report: February 8, 2016
The Committee met Thursday January 28, 2016 at 6:30 pm in the Watertown Savings Bank Room at the
Watertown Free Public Library to make recommendations to the full Town Council on the proposed
Regional Mixed-Use (RMUD) zoning ordinance text amendment. This was a continuation of the January 23,
2016 meeting.
Attending were: Committee members Susan Falkoff, Chair, Kenneth Woodland,Vice Chair,and Vincent
Piccirilli, Secretary; Planning Director Stephen Magoon; Senior Planner Gideon Schreiber; Councilors
Michael Dattoli,Aaron Dushku, Lisa Feltner,Angeline Kounelis,Anthony Palomba; and approximately 25
members of the public.
The Committee was distributed a Version 4 document for review incorporating all comments received to
date (attached). For each item,committee members were given an opportunity to ask questions,followed
by comments from the public, discussion by committee members and a vote.The votes were as follows
(underlining indicates the changes from the previous document):
1. Attachment page 1 &2: Section 4.11 (e) Exceptions to Setbacks: This was not part of the advertized
notice and includes districts beyond RMUD. It can be addressed in the MPSP process.
Voted 3-0 to not accept the change.
2. Attachment page 2: Section 5.03 (8) Maximum percentage of 70%: This was seen as too restrictive,and
is best left to the MPSP process.
Voted 3-0 to not accept the change.
3. Attachment page 4: Section 5.18 (1) Intent and Purpose: Size of retail, definition of regional.
"1) Facilitate transformative development consistent with Watertown's goal to promote mixed use
development that includes larger and smaller scale retail, office,hospitality,multi-family residential and
research and development uses,and that serves regional demand."
Accepted 3-0 as amended by the committee with "larger and"added to the proposed language.
4. Attachment page 5: Section 5.18 (4) Intent and Purpose: Open space.
"4) Enhance publically available open space networks by connecting to and integrating with adjacent state,
municipal and privately-owned parcels,where appropriate, encouraLyinL-private land owners to
permanently preserve oven space.being sensitive to the Charles River reservation.and furtherinE_ private
remediation and public access to Sawin's and Williams Ponds."
Accepted 3-0 as amended by the committee with"private" added to the proposed language.
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Committee on Economic Development and Planning, RMUD Report for Meeting January 28,2016
5. Attachment page 5: Section 5.18 (5), (8) &(9) Intent and Purpose. Additional language added:
"5) Respect historic assets and architectural features that help define the character of the
community and encourage Dreservation and restoration of historic buildings."
"81 Encourage develoDment that accommodates and Dromotes multi-modal access.transit between
the Arsenal Corridor and mass transit stoDs.management of transDortation demand to reduce
automobile use.and mitiLyates deterioration of the level of affected intersection service for all
transDortation modes.
91 Facilitate the develoDment of a continuum of housing oDtions that:
• suDDorts residences within walking or cycling distance to emDlovment and leisure uses.
• Dromotes and maintains a diverse housing_ stock and oDDortunities for lower-and middle-
income households.and
• enhances a transition between Arsenal Street and the abutting residential neighborhoods.while
discouraging residential develoDment as a first floor use with direct frontage on Arsenal Street."
Accepted 3-0 as amended by the committee with"prevents"replaced by"mitigates"added to the proposed
language.
6. Attachment page 5: 5.18 (a): Boundaries of the proposed RMUD. Previously discussed. No action.
7. Attachment page 6: 5.18 (b)(2): add Intent and Purpose to FAR:
"2) No use in the RMUD shall exceed an FAR of 1.0 without receiving a Special Permit or Master Plan
Special Permit pursuant to§9.03-9.05 and 9.09-9.13 and in keeping with the intent and Durpose of the
RMUD Ordinance Dursuant to 45.18.a,and in no instance shall the increased intensity of use allowed by
Special Permit exceed an FAR of 2.0."
Accepted 3-0 as shown.
8. Attachment page 7: 5.18 (b)(5)(b): Maximum height was re-examined based on questions from the
audience.
"b) Maximum height of building: For new construction, 55 feet by Special Permit or 79 feet by Master Plan
Special Permit,or,by Master Plan Special Permit within a defined mixed-use project,using adopted Design
Guidelines and the allowed FAR of 2.0 to determine height up to a maximum of 130 feet,provided the
project includes a diversity of building heights and furthering the intent and Durpose of the RMUD."
Voted 3-0 to add"and furthering the intent and purpose of the RMUD"
9. Attachment page 7: 5.18 (b)(5)(b):Heights at Arsenal Park and Greenough Blvd:
Review of this section deferred until review of item#12 below.
10. Attachment page 7: 5.18 (b)(5)(d): Historic structure roofline,new section.
"dl In granting a Master Plan Snecial Permit.and in granting a Special Permit.for a Droiect which includes a
building listed on the National or Massachusetts State Register of Historic Places.the SPGA shall determine
that the height and roof ridge line of such historic structure shall not be increased."
Accepted 3-0 as shown.
Page 2 of 3
Committee on Economic Development and Planning, RMUD Report for Meeting January 28,2016
11. Attachment page 7: 5.18 (b)(7) second half of second paragraph: 100 ft buffer zone on Greenough Blvd.
11
ande--\7 Dar`9f a-Mas ce P�--n,-a reauest inay be made fOF existing O .,build;,-,to a ach,
twe,,tv_fiye f251 feet into th noa. Tl�oatxire f^^t"1fe used. ,;-hi^ the U1 onace ar-oa ohaL be—r-eDlaced
hv-v cvo=-e &UG\II D simee elsewhe.e within the >\4asW,--1L11r-\N nit. and v.ti=gu,,,v tA v I]Wieall ,
a-Geessible e ea. Tl o it s-Feasea eDen sBac-e is in -,dd-k-Jeen to the 2046r e.l ei3en spaee."
Voted 2-1 to delete this language,which was added on December 15,entirely,with Councilor Woodland
voting No.
12. Attachment page 7: 5.18 (b)(7) first half of second paragraph: 100 ft buffer zone on Greenough Blvd.
Voted 3-0 to not accept proposed changes to 5.18 (b)(7) first half of second paragraph; nor the addition of
5.18 (b)(5)(b) from item#9 above.
13. Attachment page 8: 5.18 (b)(8)(d) first half paragraph: Special setbacks and stepbacks:
"d) Special setbacks and stepbacks:Any structure within fifty(50) feet of Open Space/Conservancy (OSC)
zoned land,and the facade of anv structure which fronts on a public wav, shall be required to incorporate
appropriate setbacks,stepbacks,and/or other techniques,in keeping with adopted Design Guidelines,to
mitigate potential adverse impacts on environmentally sensitive areas and public ways."
Accepted 3-0 changed language as shown,which was added on December 15.
14. Attachment page 8: 5.18 (b)(8)(d) second half paragraph: Special setbacks and stepbacks:
"At a minimum,---ny prop000`l structures g "tCi tha,-,fifty five (55) feet in height. ith;-1 the area
have additionalheight step backed a rn\;nimurn of fifteen ( 5) feet fi-.,,Y, the structure/building's main
Voted 3-0 to not accept proposed changes,and also delete language as shown,which was added on
December 15.
The review of this document will continue on February 2, 2016.
The meeting adjourned at 8:45 pm
This report prepared by Vincent Piccirilli
Page 3 of 3
Version 4 - Town Council Subcommittee - with Comments
REGIONAL MIXED USE DISTRICT[RMUD]
ZONING AMENDMENTS Suggestions
DRAFT DATE:January 27.2016
• Previously Deleted Adopted Zoning Ordinance Text is ask through
• Previously Inserted language is in black and bolded
• Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee(EDP)recommended changes are red
bolded and underlined
• Suaaested amendments in blue received as of 3 PM on 1/27/2016
• Department of Community Development and Planning (DCDP recommendation and comments
are"(within balloons)"
ARTICLE II DEFINITIONS
SECTION 2.61 Open Space
Areas open,pewiGys—and unobstructed to the sky that can be used for active or passive recreation
purposes. Amenities such as a plaza, square, courtvard, paths, or outdoor dininq areas, and items
such as benches, walkways, planters, landscaping. swimmina pools, kiosks, gazebos, and similar
structures shall not be considered as obstructions. Opportunities should be souqht that bring
together the open space requirements of adioinina properties in order to foster a more coherent and
continuous landscape network. Parking and loading areas of any type shall not be allowed in any
required open space.
Further, i1n all residential districts, the minimum required open space shall be contiguous and pervious,
and shall not include any side yard driveway buffer where required by this Ordinance.
SECTION 2.82 TRANSPORTATION DEMAND MANAGEMENT PLAN(TDM Plan)
To include,but not be limited to,a set of procedures,policies and practices which,when taken as
a whole.are intended to reduce the number of sinale occupant vehicle trips traveling to or from a
site,and which includes auantifiable aoals and a plan for the collection and analvsis of data to
measure achievement of qoals.
ARTICLE III ESTABLISHMENT OF ZONING DISTRICTS
SECTION 3.01 CLASSIFICATION OF DISTRICTS
(d) Special Zoning Districts—
RMUD—Regional Mixed Use District
ARTICLE IV GENERAL USE AND DIMENSIONAL REGULATIONS
SECTION 4.11 EXCEPTIONS TO SETBACK REQUIREMENTS
(e) Developments in the NB, LB,CB, 1-1, 1-2,1-3, RMUD,and PSCD Districts may be
contiguous on a block:zero(0)lot line and/or shared party wall,subiect to compliance
RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
with Section 5.05 note(f)reaardina the maximum lenath of a contiauous buildina
facade.)Corner lots may be developed with two front yards with yards determined by the Comment[DCDPi]:Staff
Zoning Enforcement Officer. recommends not including this language.
It would reach beyond the scope of the
RMUD and would impact many Zones.
ARTICLE V TABLE OF DISTRICT REGULATIONS[SECTION 5.01 TABLE OF USE Further,this language would add a
REGULATIONS and SECTION 5.02 TABLE OF ACCESSORY USE REGULATIONS to be included requirement that can be addressed on a
case by case basis in reviewing
as suggested by Planning Board] redevelopment on a block. If
development is creating an unsafe or
undesirable length the Board has the
discretion to not allow a reduction in side
SECTION 5.03 NOTES TO TABLE OF USE REGULATIONS yards.
(8) See §9.07 for Mixed-Use in the 1-3 Zonina District. Within the RMUD
Zoninq District. Mixed-Use is only allowed for Droiects of two acres or
Iaraer that have filed and received an approved Master Plan Special
Permit under &5.18 and in which neither residential uses nor retail or
service uses constitute more than seventv (70) percent of the aross
floor area of the Droiect.. Comment[DCDP2]:staff
recommends keeping the existing
(15) As part of a Iaraer multi-tenant development,a retailer may disDlav light dutv language. This proportion is overly
restrictive and takes away flexibility on
passenger vehicles as an advertisement for sale or lease. Franchise the floors above the first floor. The
automobile dealerships and uses as defined by&2.56 and 6 2.57 of the RMUD is currently the same as the
Zonina Ordinance are Drohlbited. Central Business District which requires
only 15%of the first floor be used to
access residential which must be on the
SECTION 5.04 TABLE OF DIMENSIONAL REGULATIONS[add to table as noted] floors above. In the PSCD,the adopted
language required 15%of the Gross Area
�to be Commercial.
Max.etbacks(ft)� Min.Lot Min.
Min. Min. Max. Max. Area
Distric Lot Frontag Building Impervio Height Per Max Ope
It Size a Front Side Rea Coverag us (ft/storie Dwellin n
(s.f.) (ft) r e Coverage s) g Unit FAR Spa c
M (s.f.) a(/o)
NB 50(f) �0 15 50 90 5/2. 0.5 10
LB 40(f) (5 20 80 90 40/4 1.0 10
CB (f) - - - 100 55/5 4.0 (n)
(k)(n) (o)
1-1 10
50(f) Max. �d� 30 50 90 55(5)(k) �i) 10
30(s)
1-2 10
50(f) Max. �d) 30 50 90 55(5)(k) �i)0 10
30(s)
1-3 10
50(f) Max. �d) 30 50 90 55(5)(k) 1.0 10
30(s)
1-3
(Resid 10
ential/ 50(f) Max. 25 30 50 80 (k)(n) 800 �i) 20
Mixed 30(s)
Use)
10 0/Sh Min.24 1.0
PSCD 10,000 - Max. ared 18 50(t) 80 Max. 800 (v) 20
30(s) party 55/5(u) Mix
Page 2 of 27
RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
wall ed
or 18 Use
ft 2.0
10;
RMUD 10,000 50(f) Max.3 15 20 75 85 55/5u N/A 1=0 20
I(-) 0(s) (d) IP1 (i)
fm
SECTION 5.05 NOTES TO TABLE OF DIMENSIONAL REGULATIONS
(f) The minimum frontage of the lot shall be one hundred(100)feet for new construction of
multi-family dwelling structures,townhouses,and rowhouses.
For all new construction in the RMUD.NB,LB,CB, 1-1, 1-2, 1-3,and 1-3 Districts the
maximum length of a contiguous building fagade shall be no more than one hundred and
fifty(150)feet long or up to two hundred and fifty(250)feet long by Special Permit in
keeping with adopted Design Guidelines. Offsets of a minimum of twenty five(25)feet in
depth and fifty(50)feet in length,shall be incorporated for facades to not be considered
contiguous.The maximum linear dimension of a building shall be less than three hundred
(300)feet long,unless a project of greater length,by Special Permit,is determined to be
in keeping with adopted Design Guidelines.Buildings with a substantial publically-
accessible pass through at the ground floor that is a minimum of fifty(50)feet across and
twenty(20)feet in height,or an equivalent area,may be considered as separate
buildings,as determined by the Zoning Enforcement Officer.
Exceptions—In the RMUD,both the maximum contiauous wall and the overall
length of a building may be increased through the use of a Master Plan Special
Permit,but anv increase must be in-keepina with adopted Desian Guidelines and
the local context.
(i) No use in the RMUD.1-11 1-2 or 1-3 Districts shall exceed an FAR of 1.0 without receiving
a special permit consistent with§9.03-9.15 and in no instance shall the increased
intensity of use allowed by special permit exceed an FAR of 2.0. In addition, no
residential use in the 1-3 District shall be allowed without receiving a special permit
consistent with the above noted sections and§5.07.
(n) For Mixed-Use development of any type(Residential and Commercial)the minimum
open space requirement shall be twenty percent(20%).
For office buildings or mixed-use developments in the NB,LB,CB, RMUD 1-1, 1-2,and I-
3 Districts greater than or equal to ten thousand(10,000)gross square feet or containing
ten(10)or more residential units,the minimum building height is twenty four(24)feet.
For the RMUD see Section 5.18(05.for minimum and maximum heiqhts.
(p) No residential or mixed commercial residential structure shall be allowed within twenty-
five(25)feet of any OSC district boundary and no industrial or commercial structure
within fifty(50)feet of an OSC district boundary if it is located on a parcel greater than
twenty-five thousand(25,000)square feet;if less than twenty-five thousand(25,000)
square feet the required district setback shall apply,except in the RMUD.
Page 3 of 27
RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
Specifically,in the RMUD.by Special Permit,a Droiect may incorporate Dublically
accessible open space to offset reauired setbacks.with reduced setbacks to be no
less than existina adiacent buildinas on the same lot or adiacent lots. At a
minimum,the allowance for reduced setbacks shall include consideration of
improvina adiacent public parkland,with public access and amenities for
communitv uses in proposed private open space within a proiect.
(w) Existina lots in the RMUD District that are less than 10,000 sf and were established
prior to January 1.2015.shall be deemed to be conformina as to minimum lot size.
SECTION 5.18 REGIONAL MIXED USE DISTRICT rRMUDI
Watertown's Design Guidelines were created"to enhance the economic vitality of selected
commercial areas through attractive,consistent design."The commercial corridors and sauares
of Main Street,Pleasant Street.Galen Street,North Beacon Street,Mt.Auburn Street and Arsenal
Street are beina positivelv impacted by the Desian Guidelines and Standards as thev are clarifvina
expectations about what development should look like and raising the aualitv of construction.
As the Town's primary commercial corridor,the eastern portion of Arsenal Street has some of the
laraest retailers in the region.With sufficient private and public infrastructure this area warrants
qreater densitv in liqht of the size of the geoaraphv and its catalvtic and transformative potential
for the reaion. The scale of development in this area merits areater heiaht,massing and sionane
reauirements for new construction commensurate with its role as a reaional attraction and
destination.
Intent and Purpose
The Reqional Mixed Use District rRMUDI has been enacted to assist,promote,and quide
the orderly conversion and redevelopment of the Arsenal Street Corridor.The
establishment of the RMUD is intended to accomplish the followinq obiectives:
1) Facilitate transformative development consistent with Watelpwn's aoal to
promote mixed use development that includes(smaller scale retail,office. Comment[DCDP3]:The regional
hospitality.multi-familv residential and research and development uses,and that nature of this district should include large
serves tierdemand in the municipalities neighboring Watertown. retail and smaller scale retail
2) Allow development at a densitv.scale and character appropriate to define a Independent business?
corridor that is a maior oatewav for the Town:Additional heiaht may be Comment[DCDP4]:The proposed
appropriate in such Gatewav Locations where consistent with Watertown's language is describing`regional'so there
is no difference.This area serves
economic development aoals.and the adopted Desian Guidelines.as thev may Watertown and other communities so
appropriately apply to development in the RMUD:Additional densitv and/or should remain as Regional.
reduced parkina space requirements may be appropriate in the District where
consistent with the aoal of reducina traffic conaestion and improvina multi-user
transit services and in compliance with anv Transportation Demand Manaaement
policv adopted by the Town.
3) Enhance the aualitv of life,includina Dromotina the development of a hiah quality
public realm.
Page 4 of 27
RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
o which is aesthetically pleasing and consistent with Watertown's Design
Guidelines
o that provides a well-articulated pedestrian environment which implements
Complete Street concepts and adopted Complete Streets Policies
o that promotes porous frontaaes which create connections to surrounding
neiahborhoods and the Charles River
o which Includes public art.
4) Enhance Dublicaliv available open space networks by connecting to and
intearatina with adiacent state,municipal and privately-owned parcels,where
aDDropriatel.encouraaina private land owners to permanently preserve open
space,beina sensitive to the Charles River reservgtion,and furtherina remediation
and public access to Sawin's and Williams PondsJ Comment[DCDPS]:In some
5) Respect historic assets and architectural features that help define the character of instances private open space preserved
through Permits is a more desirable
the communitv and encouraae preservation and restoration of historic buildinas. outcome as the Property is maintained by
6) Incentivize real estate investment that will enhance the diversitv and maximize the the property owner and continues to be
value of the Town's tax base. included in the tax base.
7) Use"areen"buildina practices that encouraae enerav efficiencv,manaae
stormwater, protect the riparian habitat,and are planned,desianed,constructed.
and managed to minimize adverse environmental impacts.
8) Encouraae development that accommodates and promotes multi-modal access..
transit between the Arsenal Corridor and mass transit stops,management of
transportation demand to reduce automobile use,and prevents deterioration of the
level of affected intersection service for all transportation modes.
9) Facilitate the development of a continuum of housina options that:
o supports residences within walking or cvclina distance to emplovment and
leisure uses.
o promotes and maintains a diverse housina stock and opportunities for
lower-and middle-income households,and
o enhances a transition between Arsenal Street and the abuttina residential
neiahborhoods,while discouraaina residential development as a first floor
use with direct frontaae on Arsenal Street.
(a) District Delineation
the boundaries of the Regional Mixed Use District rRMUDI are as defined on the Zonina
Map of Watertown.Massachusetts,as amended on <month.date>.2015(insert map
amendment adoption date).The provisions of this section shall apply only to the Reaional
Mixed Use District. (The following Zoning Map Amendment would update the official Zoning
Map and is not intended to be included in§5.18) Comment[DCDP6]:Several
residents have continued to request
consideration of a smaller RMUD/phased
adoption.
Page 5 of 27
RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
I()\ING Map-Regional Mixer[1Isc Amendment
I'Lwnitig Bom-d I0/1412015
-y1fON
.. Ur is v ., •'-- � 'NHEELER
T.
iA>uE5 D
r --
.r
]tIY LkX:k:.�'u ff 1"llti[:ULti'i'lilf"1Y 04'l1tld7'Ill"�iIN1L'1"i
..:.. �a•.,..as.crE kkkkkk [].ea.
A. s,...>e mow... e.,r:recoa��.o,. :•_:. renra � x
(b) Dimensional Criteria
1) Alterations.additions and extensions of nonconformina structures shall be subiect
to S 4.06.
2) No use in the RMUD shall exceed an FAR of 1.0 without receiving a Special Permit
or Master Plan Special Permit pursuant to 6 9.03-9.05 and 9.09-9.13 or-and in
keeping with the intent and purpose of the RMUD Ordinance pursuant to 65.18.a.
and in no instance shall the increased intensitv of use allowed by Special Permit
exceed an FAR of 2.0.
3) Minimum Lot Area Der Dwellina Unit: N/A
4) Minimum Lot Frontage: 50 feet,subiect to 6 5.05(f)
5) Heiaht of Buildina:
a. Minimum heiaht of buildina: For office build!nas and mixed-use
developments in the RMUD areater than or eaual to ten thousand(10.000)
aross square feet or containina ten(101 or more residential units,the
minimum buildina heiaht is twentv four(241 feet.
Page 6 of 27
RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
b. Maximum heiaht of building: For new construction,55 feet by Special
Permit or 79 feet by Master Plan Special Permit, or,by Master Plan Special
Permit within a defined mixed-use project,using adopted Design
Guidelines and the allowed FAR of 2.0 to determine heiaht up to a
maximum of 130 feet, provided the project includes a diversitv of building
heights.
c. Maximum heiaht of buildinas abuttina Arsenal Park or the Greenouah Blvd
100'buffer: For new construction or additions to existina buildinas,the
maximum heiaht shall not exceed 55'within 20'of the required setback.
Further,buildina heiaht bevond 20'of each applicable setback shall be
allowed to increase to the maximum allowable heiaht so Iona as each
aspect of the buildina remains below a 45 de ree anale oriainatina 20'from
the setback and 55'above qrade at that point Comment[DCDP7]:Staff is not in
support of this amendment. This is also
b-.d.ln grantinq a Master Plan Special Permit,and in qrantinq a Special Permit, discussed through another suggested
for a oroiect which includes a buildina listed on the National or amendment inalater section about
stepbacks.
Massachusetts State Register of Historic Places,the SPGA shall determine
that the heiaht and roof ridge line of such historic structure shall not be with this type of requirement,a design
Increased. would ended up having to have many
steps or be set far into large lots. This
would not allow the flexibility envisioned
6) Maximum Total Buildina Coveraqe: seventv-five percent(75%). for architecturally appropriate design in-
keeping with the Design Guidelines.
7) Minimum Open Space:All new developments shall have at least 20 percent(20%) Comment[DCDP8]:This further
identifies the historic buildings and
of the total site area devoted to Open Space: reauired setbacks shall be preservation of them.
considered as part of the total area for Open Space.The required Open Space shall
Stanot be used for parkins,loading,or roadwav purposes.Fiftv percent(50%)of the the i creasesuggests that theintenttat addi to tion
the increase of height but that additions of
reauired Open Space shall be publicly accessible. skylights or small dormers to allow
natural light should be allowed and
suggests adding the word`ridge'to
There shall be a 100-foot wide open space area parallel to Greenouqh Boulevard. clarify.(in yellow)
Except as set forth in this&5.18.c.7,no structure shall be built within this 100-foot
area.Through a Master Plan Special Permit,exmstmna structures buildinas which
existed within this 100-foot area as of September 25,2015,may be expanded within
this 100-foot area but in no instance may an addition encroach closer to
Greenouah Boulevard than the existing structure for be made taller within this 100-
foot areal,(and as part of a Master Plan,a request may be made for existing or new Comment[DCDP9]:The yellow is an
buildings to encroach up to twenty-five(25)feet into this area. The square footage area that is suggested to be deleted. Staff
is not in support of this amendment. This
used within the open space area shall be replaced by twice as much pervious open would remove the ability to design
space elsewhere within the Master Plan site,and contiguous to Publically project that fits within the context of the
existing building and removes flexibility
accessible open space Suaaested to Delete this allowance). This increased open that was envisioned in the Design
space is in addition to the 20%required open space. Guidelines.
Comment[DCDP10]:The EDP
8) Setbacks: Committee discussed this and voted to
createa. Front: Build-to-line of ten(10)to thirtv(30)feet as specified in 6 5.04 and suggest edd language which is now being
ugge to be deleted.
5.05(s): per&5.05(D),the front build-to-line may be reduced to be
consistent with surroundina existina buildinas by Special Permit.
b. Side: 15 feet: per&5.05(d),side vards may be omitted by Special Permit
provided that the side vard does not adioin a Residential District or a
Residential Use in existence on September 25.2015,and that access to the
rear is appropriate.
Page 7 of 27
RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
c. Rear: 20 feet: per&5.05(p), rear vards may be reduced to be consistent
with surroundina existina buildinas by Special Permit.
d. Special setbacks and stepbacks:Anv structure within fifty(501 feet of Open
Space/Conservancv(OSC)zoned land,and the facade of anv structure
which fronts on a public way.shall be reauired to incorporate appropriate
setbacks•stepbacks,and/or other techniques•in keepina with adopted
Desian Guidelines.to mitigate potential adverse impacts on
environmentally sensitive areas and public ways.I At a minimum,anv Comment[DCDP11ith]:staff supports
proposed structures areater than fiftv five(55)feet in heiaht within this this and it is in-keepingwthe,Design
..i f'#....n Guidelines. The permit review process
these areas shall have additional height ^•stepped back a Munirn • will ensure that proper stepbacks are
t�5.--.o.-�from the structure/buildina's facades facina an-the OSC Boundary approved.
or the public way.as the case may be.at a ratio of 1/1 in terms of heiaht of
the story to dimension of stepback.The foreaoina special frontage
stepback on a public wav shall apply to anv proposed structure areater
than thirtv five(35)feet on anv street of the width of Elm Street or narrower.1 Comment[DCDP12]:Staff does not
support this change.Although this
language is similar to that employed in
the AODD and the PSCD,in this district,
9) Minimum Lot Size: 10,000 square feet: Existing lots per§5.05(w). the context is different.This would
require a continual 45 degree angle to be
(C) Parklnq RepUlrementS: employed for all development no matter
what the site context or master plan
process provided for.
Off-street parkina shall comply with the reauirements of Article VI of the Watertown The intent of the Master Plan process is
Zoning Ordinance. to allow a review of the site context to
determine if and when increase height is
(d) Signs and Illumination: appropriate on a site.
Staff suggested including minimum
required stepbacks,but overly restricting
Siqnaqe shall comply with the requirements of Article VII of the Watertown Zoning the options could result in a more
Ordinance. formulaic outcome.
Comment[DCDP13]:A suggestion
(e) Design Guidelines: was made to provide for unbundling of
the residential component of larger
mixed-use projects.
Per&9.03(d),developments in the RMUD with four or more residential units or 10,000
Staff supports using the parking
square feet of new development or greater are subiect to review accordinq to the Town of mechanism such as shared parking and
Watertown's adopted Design Guidelines. reduced parking to look at options for
unbundling the cost of parking for
residential rental and condo development.
(f) Authority and Procedure:
Staff suggested a new sentence:"For
Master Plan Special Permit projects,
Anv proiect requiring relief per§5.01 of the Ordinance shall be subiect to§9.03 and 9.05 the residential component of a project
of the Watertown Zonina Ordinance,or a Petitioner/Project may seek,as an alternative shall consider options for unbundling
approval grOCeSS,a Master Plan Special Permit under&5.18(a),if a proiect encompasses a the price of its portion of the requiredparking within a project"
minimum of two(2)acres.(suaaested lanauaae: For anv common development plan
involving one or more buildinas on one or more parcels greater than or less than 2 acres.
the Petitioner/Project shall first seek a Master Plan Special Permit under 5.18(q)
encompassing all proiects envisioned to be developed within a then vear Deriodh Comment[DCDP14]:Staff does not
support this. It appears that the request is
to require a Master Plan for all projects
Master Plan Special Permit with Site Plan Review: with one or more buildings on any size
The revitalization and redevelopment of property in the RMUD may involve new uses and Property. Staff believes that there should
be options for existing and new uses to
buildings,additional structured parkina,enhanced landscaping,and other significant remain and expand using the existing
changes.The Proiects may occur over time,and in phases. process and not require all projects to do
a Master Plan.
Page 8 of 27
RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
.A.l2ptotonner mav wish to seek GOnGeptual level approval of a larae SGale n4xed-use,
K)roiect.with iniptamipin!Final Site Plan Review Approvals of induA-rod-al huildincis under 6 9
to occur prior to Bumiclonci Permits for individual bumicloncis.In order to ensure that nearbv
and Town-wide traffic,infrastructure,densitv.connectivitv and visual impacts etc.,from
such proiects are identified and coherently planned to include appropriate mitigation,the
Petitioner shall seek conceptual,Master Plan level approval of a larae scale mixed use
proiect.This approval shall be followed by detailed Final Site Plan Review Approvals of
individual proiects or buildinas under 9.03 that are to occur later,before issuance of anv
Buildina Permits.
A oromect-level review provides an ouvortunitv to consider;and;iddrpqq the rum-dathirp
- * nt.The Master Plan SveGial Perrnit%Fith Site Plan Review 13FOGess provides the
opportunity and a rneGhanisrn for revieiA of lar..e_SGale r..xed use p ants that r.. .he
built On oh-asns A Master Plan-level review provides the Petitioner with the benefit of
advance conceptual approval for multiple proiects to be implemented over time.It also
provides both the Petitioner and the Town with the opportunity and mechanism to
consider and address the cumulative impacts of all individual phases and for the holistic
consideration and mitigation plannina for the entire larqer-scale,proiects)that may be
built in phases.this ordinance acknowledaes that chanaed circumstances over the 10
vear period may reauire adiustments to the original development vision.Such adiustments
can be accommodated by the filina and approval of an amendment for a minor or maior
revision to the Master Plan in advance of submittina for Site Plan Review on the adiusted
proiect component(s)J Comment[DCDP15"Staff finds that
this is relevant but does not belong in this
section. There is another section which
speaks to the timeframe before a Special
1) Procedure: Notwithstanding anvthina to the contrary within the Watertown Permit lapses.
Zonina Ordinance or more specifically within Article IX, in the RMUD,the
Planning Board shall be the Special Permit Granting Authoritv(SPGA)for all
Master Plan Special Permits and Amendments in accordance with 6 9.03.
2) Application:A Petitioner proposing to construct one or more new buildings
(which may include structured Darkina and may include alterations to one or
more existina buildings)mav-shall seek approval of the overall proiect throuah
a Master Plan Special Permit.An application for a Master Plan Special Permit
shall include,at a minimum,for each proposed new buildina,structural
alteration of an existing buildina,or principal use outside of a building:
a. The proposed location,approximate footprint,height,and qross floor
area;
b. Building elevations showing principal building entrances,overall
buildina massina,rooflines,and general fenestration patterns and will
require multiple three-dimensional elevations: Applications for one or
more buildings areater than 79'in heiaht shall include design details for
such buildina(s)sufficient to enable a decision whether heiaht above 79'
is appropriate aiven the massina of the proposed buildinci(s)and the
location in relation to other buildings,streets and open spaces,
includinq public open spaces adiacent to the site.
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RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
c. Cross section drawinas indicating the relationship of the building or
buildinas to nearbv buildinas,buildinas on adioinina properties,streets
ancLopen spaces,and parklands.Both aerial and pedestrian level 3D
views shall be included to fully depict the visual impact of the desian
from both public ways and from several kev view points within the
proiect development area:
d. Identification of all principal and accessory uses,other than parkinq and
anv alterations or demolition of existina structures,with care aiven
toward Protectinq historic resources that help define and contribute to
the character of the Arsenal Street Corridor:
e. Vehicle and bicvcle parkina areas or facilities to be provided:
f. Proposed design criteria establishina a palette of building materials,
architectural elements,and landscaping elements to be finalized for
each individual buildina during later,detailed Site Plan Reviews:
g. Shadow Analvsis depicting internal and external impacts of morninq,
mid-dav and evenina shadows at both solstices and equinoxes;
h. Traffic Impact Assessment(TIAS)of traffic aeneration and onsite/offsite
impacts includina a Transportation Demand Manaaement Plan with a
reporting mechanism to the Town;
i. Verification that adeauate e€sewer capacity is available or that the
proiect will suitably increase capacity as required;and
j. Complete,conceptual level sStormwater Mmanaaement plan
demonstratina the development's approach to on-site Storm-water
Manaaement and adeauacv of connections to regional mains.
k. Open Space Plan,includinq location,size,characteristics(pervious vs
impervious),uses and public accessibility of all open space areas.
Conceptual wavfindina sianaae for paths,access to parks,and transit.
at a minimum,with detailed plans to be submitted within a siqnaae
packet as part of a Buildina Permit.
k-.I.List of required Federal,Massachusetts,or Watertown environmental
licenses,permits,filings,or restrictions,currently in effect or
anticipated.
3) Review of Application:The SPGA shall hold a public hearing in accordance with
procedures outlined in 6 9.04.The SPGA shall not approve a Master Plan
Special Permit unless it finds that the four conditions for Special Permit
approval set forth in&9.05(b)of this Zoning Ordinance have been met and that
the proposed development will satisfv or meet the intent and purpose of the Comment[DCDP16]:Staff has
RMUD Ordinance as set forth in§5.18.a.The Petitioner's submission of and the concerns with this language as it implies
that each of the RMUD objectives would
review of the conceptual level plan component of a Master Plan Special Permit need to be met in their entirety for every
shall follow the procedures set forth in 1$9.03.The SPGA shall not approve such project.
a Master Plan Special Permit unless it finds that the Petitioner has satisfactorihi Instead Staff suggests the same language
addressed,at a conceptual level,the ten criteria listed in§9.03(c). as used in other parts of the RMUD.
That language is:"in-keeping"which
allows the Board the same latitude as the
4) Parkina Reduction: In arantina a Master Plan Special Permit,the SPGA may Site Plan Review Criteria.
reduce the number of reauired Parkina spaces,based on the availabilitv of
public transportation alternatives at or near the RMUD master-planned proiect,
the transportation demand management proqrams implemented or to be
implemented as part of the RMUD Master Plan,compatibility with anv
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RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
transportation policv adopted by the Town„the abilitv of uses with peak user
demands at different times to share parkina spaces or other factors for which
the Petitioner provides(i)a parkina studv or analvsis prepared under the
direction of a Professional Enaineer or Architect with the reauisite experience
in conducting such analvsis,using standards and methodoloaies promulgated
by the Institute of Transportation Engineers,the Urban Land Institute,or other
appropriate source,and(or including)(ii)a transportation demand manaqement
plan prepared to best practices standards for such plans in Massachusetts.
In arantina a Master Plan Special Permit,and in arantina a Special Permit for
proiects with more than 20*residential units or twentv thousand(20.0001*aross
square feet,the SPGA shall require participation in a Watertown Transportation
Management Association(if and when a Watertown TMA exists)at a
quantifiable level of participation as determined by SPGA. Comment[DCDP17]:staff is not in
support of this amendment. As has been
discussed,projects that would require a
In addition,the SPGA may allow the Petitioner to temporarilv further reduce the TMA are discretionary and so as part of
amount of parkina provided as part of a master-planned proiect during a the process for review,staff,Town
Consulphase(s)of an approved larae-scale mixed-use proiect if existing parkina review he projes,andct
to Boards would
p review the project and determine if
spaces will be eliminated durina a phase of implementation,to be replaced in participation in the TMA is appropriate
that or a later phase of implementation,for example if a structured parkinq and desirable.
facility is to be built on the location of an existing surface parkina lot.In using zoning to require all development
determinina whether to grant such a temporary further reduction of the amount over a certain size to participate is not
preferred option at this time. Once a
of parkina.the SPGA shall take into consideration the security the Petitioner TMA is formed,there is a possibility that
provides the Town that funding for constructing or otherwise Drovidina the a mechanism could be created for
eliminated parkinq spaces will be available to the Town in the event the requiring participation.
Petitioner fails to replace such spaces in a timely manner,the factors set forth Also,many businesses and larger
above in this subsection and the applicant's proposals, if anv.to provide participating cts
are interested in
participating for the benefits without any
substitute off-site parkinq or other interim measures to reduce the demand for requirement.
parkina within the master-planned proiect. Comment[DCDP18]:This appears
to be suggesting a requirement for a
construction bond to ensure that parking
5) Final Site Plan Review: Prior to the issuance of a Building Permit for anv is restored.
building approved under a Master Plan Special Permit,the Petitioner shall
obtain Final Site Plan Review of the final desian details of the proposed This is a concern for construction and
building permits and no use would be
buildina(s)and anv related landscaping or other improvements following the viable with out either restoring the
procedures set forth in§9.03 of this Zoninq Ordinance. parking or completing the stalled project.
Therefore,staff is not concerned and does
6) not recommend adding this language.
Amendments to an approved Master Plan Special Permit:Chanqes to an
approved Master Plan Special Permit site plan that are Minor,as determined by
the SPGA or Director of the Department of Communitv Development and
Planninq(Director),may be approved as part of the Final Site Plan Review for
the associated buildina(s).
7) Lapse of a Master Plan Special Permit:A Master Plan Special Permit will be
required to include a Dhasinq plan for implementinq the Master Plan Special
Permit.
a. The Permit shall be deemed to have been exercised for purposes of
9.13 of the Zoninq Ordinance and Section 9 of the Massachusetts
Zoninq Act,M.G.L.c.40A,if,within one vear from the date of the qrant
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RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
of the SPGA's Master Plan Special Permit,the Petitioner has applied for
Final Site Plan Approval of a buildinq or outdoor use,and if within two
vears of such date construction of an approved building or
commencement of an approved principal use outside of a buildina has
begun,in either case except for good cause. A petitioner may request
extensions of the phasinq plan and/or implementation throuqh a request
to the SPGA prior to permit expiration. The time periods referenced
above shall not include such time required to pursue or await the
determination of anv appeal under M.G.L.c.40A.Section 17.
b. INotwithstandinq the provisions of section 5.18.a.5,ten(10)vears from
the issuance of a Master Plan Special Permit,a buildinq for which a
Final Site Plan Approval has not been applied.or(if a Final Site Plan
Approval has been issued for such buildina),construction or principal
use outside of a building has not begun,shall not be constructed,nor
shall such principal use be allowed,until the SPGA shall either approve
an amendment to the Master Plan,approve a new Master Plan,or
approve a Special Permit,to allow subsequent submittal of such Final
Site Plan Approval request,or construction of the buildina or
comme cement of the principal use outside of a building,as the case
may be. Comment[DCDP19]:This language
is more complicated then needed but staff
supports the concept of a expiration date
when the permit would need to be
(g) Circulation: revisited by the SPGA. 10yearsmaybe
Special consideration shall be qiven to infrastructure and design that will create direct appropriate but staff suggests considering
7 years.
public bicvcle and pedestrian path connections with adiacent public bicvcle or pedestrian
paths,and that minimizes barriers separating such paths.
ARTICLE VI AUTOMOTIVE AND BICYCLE PARKING REQUIREMENTS
SECTION 6.02 LOCATION AND DESIGN OF OFF-STREET PARKING SPACES
(n) In the Business Zones,Industrial Zones.PSCD and RMUD,the off-street parking requirements of
§6.01 may be satisfied with the use of a stacked parking configuration.For the purposes of this§
6.02(n)stacked parking shall mean a parking space,including enclosed garage parking spaces,
where within a parking space vehicles may be parked with one(1)vehicle behind another,with a
maximum two(2)vehicles in each stack.Notwithstanding the provisions of§6.02(b)above,each
parking space shall be marked and shall not be less than eight(8)feet in width and seventeen
(17)feet in length for angle parking or twenty-two(22)feet in length for parallel parking,exclusive
of drives,walks and maneuvering space.One(1)of the two vehicles in each stack shall have
direct access to an aisle or drive-way having a minimum width of twenty-four(24)feet in the case
of two-way traffic or in the case of one-way traffic the minimum aisle width provided in§6.02(c).
The surfaced area of off-street parking areas shall be set back a minimum of five(5)feet from all
buildings and lot lines.Such setback areas,except for entrance and exit drives,shall be properly
landscaped with grass,trees,shrubs,flowers and other landscaping materials.
ARTICLE VII SIGNS AND ILLUMINATION
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RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
SECTION 7.03 SIGNS IN ALL DISTRICTS
(a) Placement of Sians
(1) Any buildinq or tenant occupancy with more than one occupancy frontage may have
attached signage on each occupancy frontage facing a street, parking lot, or in each
yard facing a street, and/or free-standing signage for each street frontage of the
lot. A building may also have separate identifying signage. In no instance shall anv
sianaae directly front on or face Greenouah Boulevard.
(b) Proiection of Sians
(2) A sign, except for a proiectinq sian such as a svmbol, accessory, marquee, or
banner,shall not project more than six(6)inches from the building wall.
(3) A proiectinq sign and support thereof, must be set back at least two (2) feet from
the curb line and be at least nine(9)feet above around level.
(4) A proiectinq banner sign must be set back at least two (2)feet from the curb line and
be at least nine(9)feet above ground level. The total area of a banner may not exceed
fifty (50) square feet. In no instance shall the vertical length of a Banner Sian
exceed fiftv(50)percent of the total heiqht of the structure to which it is attached
and the width of a Banner Sian shall not exceed fifteen(15)percent of its heiaht.
(c) Conditions of temporary sians
One temporary sign is permitted,as follows:
(1) A temporary identifying sign, not exceeding the permitted size for a permanent sign,
may be erected for not more than sixty(60)days.
(2) A temporary accessory sign shall not exceed six(6)square feet and shall be removed
from public view by those responsible for its erection within seven (7) days after the
activity advertised has ceased or after substantial damage to the sign,whichever comes
first.
(3) A temporary non-accessory sign is limited to a period of forty-five(45)days preceding
and not over seven (7) days after the relevant event and may not exceed fiftv (50)
sauare feet.
SECTION 7.05 SIGNS IN R.75 AND R1.2 DISTRICTS,AND FOR RESIDENTIAL USES IN THE 1-3 AND
RMUD DISTRICT
In the R.75 or R1.2 Districts,or with respect to any residential use in the 1-3 District and RMUD, no sign or
other advertising device shall be permitted except as follows:
(b) For multiple unit developments, including the residential component within a
mixed-use Droiect, uD to two attached sians or two free-standing sians,or a combination of
one attached sign and one free-standing sign may be allowed. The size of such sianaae
shall be limited to one(1)square foot per unit up to a maximum of 100 square feet,and in no
instance shall a buildina mounted sign exceed 30 feet in heiaht.
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RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
SECTION 7.06 SIGNS IN THE NB,LB,CB,I,RMUD,AND PSCD DISTRICTS
In any NB,LB,CB, I, RMUD,and PSCD district,no on premise sign or advertising device shall be permitted
except as follows:
(a) As permitted in S-10,S-6,SC,CR,T,OSC,R.75 and R1.2 districts.
(b) One identifying sign for each buildina or tenant occupancy frontage facing a street, parking lot,or
public way. In addition, one free standina sian may be allowed on a lot for each street
frontaae of the lot, provided it is set back to at least one half the depth of the reauired
setback in that district. In the case of a free standing pole or pylon sign,said identifying sign may
be up to sixteen(16)square feet or thirtv-two(32)_square feet in the case of a monument sign. If a
wall or marquee sign, said identifying sign may be up to five(5) percent of the area of the wall or
building facade. The dimensions used in calculating this percentage shall be the horizontal
measure of the occupancy frontage of the business and the vertical measurement of the building
not exceeding the top of the second story of the building facade (also see (d)). The accessory
signage calculation shall be based upon the five (5) percent of the wall area or building facade
allowed for an identifying sign.
RMUD Exceptions:
1.In the RMUD, the number and size of all building mounted (wall or marquee) sianaae
shall be limited to no more than one and one-quarter(1.25) square feet of siqnaqe for
each linear foot of buildina for the first story and no more than three-auarters(0.751 of a
sauare foot for each linear foot of buildina for a second storv, but anv use above a
second story may be allocated a portion of the first story or second story sianaae
allocation. Buildina mounted sianaae may be located adiacent to entrances.alona first
and second floor occupancv frontaaes,or in other locations,includina at heiiahts areater
than 20 feet,so Iona as the location is in keepina with adopted Desian Guidelines. In no
instance may a sinale occupant be allowed more than 100 sauare feet of buildina
mounted identifvina sianaae,subiect to the size limitations set forth in Section 7.06e.
2.In addition to the wall-mounted sianaae allowed above,lots in the RMUD may have up to
one(1)free-standina sian for each two hundred(2001 linear feet of street frontaae alona
a public or private way.provided that the total number of free-standina sians allowed on
anv lot shall not exceed a total maximum of four(4)free-standinq sians and shall be a
maximum of twentv(20')feet in heiaht and thirtv-two(32)sauare feet in sian area. Two
of the allowed free standina Dole or ovlon sians may be consolidated and those
consolidated sians shall have no more than 150 square feet of sianaae area each,
subiect to size limitations set forth in & 4.12, 6.02.h and 7.06.b, and in keeping with
adopted Desian Guidelines.
(c) One buildinq mounted accessory Droiectinq sian such as a marquee, awning, fin, blade, or
symbol sign or banner sian for each 50 linear feet of tenant occupancv facina a private or
public way.or parkina lot.
(e) In no instance may the gross area of all signs including accessory signs on one building exceed
200 square feet in area on a single lot,except in the case of multiple buildings where each building
may have up to a maximum of 200 square feet including accessory signs on each building.
Notwithstandina the above, anv non-residential or mixed use site with cumulative building
footprints in excess of 100,000 square feet may not exceed 350 square feet of sianaae per
buildina.except in the RMUD.where the maximum identifvina sianaae shall be limited to one-
hundred (100) square feet of buildina mounted sianaae Der tenant. Further, an increase in
the total buildina sianaae may be permitted by Special Permit and adherina to the adopted
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RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
Design Guidelines.
Exceptions: Freestanding and directional signs shall not reduce sianaae otherwise
allowable under Section 7.06(e)above,but shall be subiect to limitation identified in Section
7.03(a)and 7.05(b).
(g) Projecting signs may be considered as accessory signs and be permitted if they are not more than
sixteen (16)square feet in total area. Further, projecting signs shall be placed at a right angle to
the building wall. Illumination from the interior of all projecting signs shall be prohibited and other
forms of illumination shall be consistent with this Ordinance.
(h) One free standing or wall-mounted sign may be permitted for the purpose of a business directory
Der shared entrance provided that no more than three(3)square feet shall be permitted thereon
for each use except by special permit. The aggregate sign area shall not exceed thirty-two (32)
square feet.
SECTION 7.07 SIGN SPECIAL PERMIT[add section and adjust subsequent section numbering as
required]
In the RMUD district,no on-premise sian or advertising device shall be permitted except as
follows:
(a) As permitted in&7.05 or as allowed by this section for Master Plan Special Permit Droiects
under&5.18.
(b) Timina:A Droiect may choose to reauest the approval of a sian master Dian as Dart of a
requested Master Plan Special Permit,or a siqn master Dian may be submitted as a
separate reauest once a Master Plan Special Permit has been aranted.
(c) In order to approve a sian master plan,the SPGA review would include a comprehensive
review of the requested sianaae in context of the Special Permit,considerina the uses
proposed and the site and surroundina context.
1) Desian Reauirements:Sian Master Plan
a. Sianaae shall be sized and placed to reinforce,rather than compete with,the
architectural elements and proportions of a buildinq.
b. A wall sian shall not Droiect bevond the ends of the walls to which it is
mounted.
c. Wall sians and Droiectina sians shall not extend above the roof line or parapet
of the buildina to which it is mounted.
d. No Dart of a Droiectina sign shall extend into vehicular traffic areas or in anv
wav interfere with vehicular site lines.
e. All free-standing signs must be protected from vehicular damaqe by a curb or
planter.
f. Signs may be erected in required setback areas but in no instance shall signs
directly front on or face Greenouah Boulevard.
Section 9.03 Site Plan Review of Certain Residential and Non-Residential Developments
[last sentence]-9.03(a)"Development in the NB, LB,CB, 1-1, I-2, 1-3,RMUD,and PSCD Districts greater
than or equal to ten thousand(10,000)gross square feet or containing ten(10)or more residential units
shall have an energy assessment completed to determine the viability of a rooftop photovoltaic system.
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RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
The Petitioner shall indicate,in writing,what actions/outcomes will be taken with a copy of the
assessment,to DCDP."
[second sentence]-9.03(c)(7)-"All Mixed Use Developments in the NB, LB,CB,1-1, 1-2,1-3,RMUD,and
PSCD Districts must meet LEED Certifiable requirements as outlined by the United States Green Building
Council's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design(current edition as applicable)as a minimum.
Section 9.03(c)7.-Environmental Sustainability:
CnyOrnmmPn+nl R,�stainability: Drnnnsed developments shall snnL to diminish+he hp
a4 island nffnn+;
ernploy passive sGlar teGhniques and deSigR to maximize sputhern exposures,b6lildiRg materials,and
requiFerneRt6 as outlined by the United States Gree BuffildiRg C;GLIRG'1'6 Leadership in Energy and
Environmental
-Design(current edition as appliGable)as a minimum. Design clOGUmentation shall hp
provided by the Petitioner to the Town to verify that the PFGjeGt GOUld arhieve the minimurn n,imber n
narFat've deGGFib'Rg hew the pFejeGt design intends to achieve selected LEED credits,and a LEED
Comment[DCDP20]:Deleting this
in its entirety and amending it are both
Proposed proiects(within the RMUD Districll shall seek to diminish the heat island effect;employ passive larger than the scope of the RMUD.
solar techniques and desian to maximize southern exposures and shadina:maximize the use of Staff suggests that this could not be
sustainable materials:utilize enerav-efficient technologies and renewable enerav resources:and RMUDA accomplished nthescopeofthe
RMUD Amendments.
minimize water use.All mixed use developments in NB.LB.CB. 1-1. 1-2.1-3.and in the AODD.PSCD and Comment[DCDP21]:This would
RMUD Districts must meet either of the following reauirements as outlined by the United States Green remove this criteria from applying to
Buildina Council's Leadership in Enerav and Environmental Desian(LEED).current addition applicable at other project required to do Site Plan
time of Site Plan ADDroval submission,as a minimum standard: Review.
Option A:The design of new buildings and the renovation of existing buildings shall achieve full LEED
certification at LEED Silver.This shall apply to the'Core&Shell'component of the project only.The
proiect's developer shall commit to strongly encouraging tenants to develop their interior spaces to a
similar or enhanced level of sustainability.The petitioner/developer shall also commit to implementing
sustainable operational practices in the completed project.
Option B:The design of all new buildings and major alterations of existing buildings shall be designed to
be certifiable at LEED Gold.This need only apply to the`Core&Shell'component of the project. In such
`Core&Shell'proiects,the developer shall commit to strongly encouraging tenants to develop their
interior spaces to a similar or enhanced level of sustainability.The petitioner/developer shall also commit
to implementing sustainable operational practices in the completed project. Comment[DCDP22]:This ideas was
raised during the Design Guideline
With either option above,the petitioner shall submit documentation to the Town that demonstrates that project and has been raised several times
since.
Droiect will achieve the LEED points required within each of the options.Such documentation shall
include but not be limited to a Proiect Sustainabilitv Narrative describing how the Droiect desian intends to Staffisbe L not EE certofmandatimforng a
project be LEED certified. To aim for
achieve the selected LEED credits,and a completed LEED Checklist with criteria and points that show LEED gold is a good aspiration and Staff
how the reauired total credits will be achieved.The Petitioner shall also commit to uDdatina this hopes of sust re projects aspire to higher
levels of ustainability.
documentation and submittina it alona with the construction permit application materials.When a
Petitioner has elected Option A above,evidence of final LEED certification shall be submitted to the Town LEED is only one way to become more
sustainable so staff supports using LEED
within one vear of Drolect occupancv. silver as guidance and one of many tools
for a more sustainable future.
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RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
ARTICLE V TABLE OF DISTRICT REGULATIONS[add to table as noted]
SECTION 5.01 TABLE OF USE REGULATIONS
OS RMU
As a Principal Use NB LB CB 1-1 1-2 1-3 PSCD C D
1. Residence
a
Dwelling,Single Family N N N N N N N N N
Dwelling,existing one-
b family converted for
two-families N N N N N N N N N
c
Dwelling,two family N N N N N N N N N
Existing dwelling
d converted for three
families SP SP N N N N N N N
New construction of
e three family dwelling
structures. SP SP SP N N N N N N
SP/S SP/S SP/S SP/S
f. Multi-family 4+ R R Y(2) N N R R N N
Row houses and
townhouses
---------------
1. Three units SP SP N N N SP Y N N
9
SP/S SP/S SP/S SP/S
. 2.Four to eight units R R N N N R R N N
h
Licensed lodging house N N N N N N N N N
SP/S SP/S SP/S SP/SR SP/ SP/S SP/S SP/S
i. Hotel and Motel Use R R R (12) SR R R N R
Trailer park or mobile
j. home park N N N N N N N N N
Mixed-use
Development
1.Up to three SR R(8)
residential units (7) SR(7) SR(7) N N (13) Y(8) N N
-------------- SP/S SP/S SP/S
k 2.Greater than three SP/S R SP/S R(8) SP/S R
. residential units R(7) (7) R(7) N N (13) R(8) N (7)(8)
2. Institutional,Transportation,Utility,and Agricultural Uses
Any religious,
educational,or licensed
day care use as defined
by CH.40A,§3.
a ---------------
1.All non-conversions; Y I Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
---------------
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OS RMU
As a Principal Use NB LB CB 1-1 1-2 1 1-3 PSCD C D
and,new construction
and conversions up to
4,000 s.f.of building
area
2.New construction or
conversion greater than
4,000s.f.of building
area SR SR SR SR SR SR SR SR SR
Country club,tennis
b club,swimming club, SP/ SP/S SP/S SP/ SP/S
nonprofit club. N N N SP/SR SR R R SR R
Commercial
agricultural,nursery
garden,greenhouse,
garden supply.
SP/S SP/ SP/S SP/S SP/S
1.On up to 5 acres N N R SP/SR SR R R N R
c 2.On more than 5
acres Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
Existing dwellings
converted for nonprofit
_club,school,clinic(11)
1 All non-conversions;
and,new construction
and conversions up to
4,000 s.f.of building
area SP SP SP N N N SP N N
2.New construction or
conversion greater than
d 4,000s.f.of building SP/S SP/S SP/S SP/S
. area R R R N N N R N N
e SP/ SP/S SP/S SP/
Cemeteries N N N SP/SR SR R R SR N
Recreational facility
owned or operated by a
Town agency or other
governmental agencies
f. or public open space. Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y
Nursing home,rest
home,or convalescent
home provided the lot
g fronts on a street at SP/S SP/S
. least 65 feet wide. R R N N N N N N N
h SP/S SP/S SP/S SP/S
Assisted Living R(7) R(7) R(7) N N N N N R(7)
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RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
OS RMU
As a Principal Use NB LB CB 1-1 I-2 1-3 PSCD C D
3. Business,Office,and Consumer Service Uses
Business offices,bank,
medical and dental
buildings,schools
operated for gain.
1.All non-conversions;
and,new construction
and conversions up to
4,000 s.f of building
area Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y
2.New construction or
conversion greater than
a 4,000s.f.of building SP/S SP/S SP/S SP/ SP/S SP/S SP/S
area R R R SP/SR SR R R N R
Commercial,recreation,
including bowling alley
or skating rink
completely enclosed.
1 All non-conversions;
and,new construction
and conversions up to
4,000 s.f.of building
area N N Y Y Y Y Y N Y
2.New construction or
conversion greater than
b 4,000s.f.of building SP/S SP/ SP/S SP/S SP/S
. area N N R SP/SR SR R R N R
c Commercial parking, Y Y
parking lot for gain. (10) Y(10) Y(10) Y(10) (10) Y(10) Y(10) N Y(10)
New and used vehicles
for sale or lease and
d display and storage of SP/ SP/S
operable vehicles only. N N N SP/SR SR R N N N(15)
Printer,publisher
1 All non-conversions;
and,new construction
and conversions up to
4,000s.f.of building
area Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y
2.New construction or
conversion greater than
e 4,000s.f.of building SP/S SP/S SP/S SP/ SP/S SP/S SP/S
area R R R SP/SR SR R R N R
Retail stores including
f. liquor stores.
Page 19 of 27
RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
OS RMU
As a Principal Use NB LB CB 1-1 1-2 1-3 PSCD C D
1.All non-conversions;
and, new construction
and conversions up to
4,000s.f.of building Y
area Y Y Y Y (1) Y(1) Y N Y(1)
2. New construction or
conversion greater than
4,000s.f.of building SP/S SP/S SP/S SP/ SP/S SP/S SP/S
area R R R SP/SR SR R R N R
Personal services,such
as barber shop, beauty
parlor,etc.
1 All non-conversions;
and, new construction
and conversions up to
4,000s.f.of building
area Y Y Y Y Y(1) Y(1) Y N Y(1)
2.New construction or
conversion greater than
g 4,000s.f.of building SP/S SP/S SP/S SP/ SP/S SP/S SP/S
area R R R SP/SR SR R R N R
Repair and alteration of
clothes and domestic
furnishings.
1 All non-conversions;
and, new construction
and conversions up to
4,000s.f.of building
area Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y
2.New construction or
conversion greater than
h 4,OOOs.f.of building SP/S SP/S SP/S SP/ SP/S SP/S SP/S
area R R R SP/SR SR R R N R
Eating place with or
without liquor.
1 All non-conversions;
and, new construction
and conversions up to
4,000s.f.of building
area Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y
2. New construction or
conversion greater than
4,000s.f.of building SP/S SP/S SP/S SP/ SP/S SP/S SP/S
i. area R R R SP/SR SR R R N R
Page 20 of 27
RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
OS RMU
As a Principal Use NB LB CB 1-1 1-2 1-3 PSCD C D
Bar or other
establishment where
the primary purpose is
the sale and
consumption of SP/S SP/S SP/S SP/ SP/S SP/S SP/S
j. alcoholic beverages. R R R SP/SR SR R R N R
Laundry and cleaning,
k automatic,but not
steam laundry. SP SP SP SP SP SP SP N SP
Gasoline Service SP/S SP/S
I. Station R R N N N N N N N
m Undertaker,funeral SP/S SP/S SP/ SP/S
parlor. R R N SP/SR SR R N N N
n SP
Adult Stores N N N SP(5) (5) N N N SP(5)
o SP
Adult Theaters N N N SP(5) (5) N N N SP(5)
4. Open-Air Drive-in Retail and Service
Drive-in Bank
1 All non-conversions;
and, new construction
and conversions up to
4,000s.f.of building
area Y Y Y Y Y Y N N Y
2. New construction or
conversion greater than
a 4,000s.f.of building SP/S SP/S SP/S SP/ SP/S SP/S
area R R R SP/SR SR R N N R
Outdoor amusement
park,outdoor sports
b facility conducted for
profit. N N N N N N N N N
Open-air drive-in
theater or other open-
c air place of
entertainment. N N N N N N N N N
Car washing
establishment using
mechanical equipment
for cleaning
d automobiles and other
equipment. N N N SP/SR N N N N N
Page 21 of 27
RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
OS RMU
As a Principal Use NB LB CB 1-1 1-2 1-3 PSCD C D
Drive-in restaurant.
Drive-in refreshment
e stand,drive-through
eating establishment. N N N N N N N N N
SP/S SP/S SP/ SP/S SP/S SP/S
f. Fast food establishment R R N SP/SR SR R R N R
g Outdoor Storage of
. Merchandise. N N N N N N N N N
5. Light Industry,Wholesale,Laboratory
Light Industry
1 All non-conversions;
and, new construction
and conversions up to
4,OOOs.f.of building
area N N N Y Y Y SP N SIP
2. New construction or
conversion greater than
a 4,OOOs.f.of building SP/ SP/S SP/S SP/S
area N N N SP/SR SR R R N R
Non-nuisance
manufacturing
1 All non-conversions;
and, new construction
and conversions up to
4,OOOs.f.of building
area N N N Y Y Y SP N Y
2 New construction or
conversion greater than
b 4,OOOs.f.of building SP/ SP/S SP/S SP/S
area N N N SP/SR SR R R N R
Office,including but not
limited to
administrative,
executive,professional,
and similar offices.
T All non-
conversions;
and,new construction
and conversions up to
4,000s.f.of building
area N N Y Y Y Y Y N Y
---------------
2.New construction or
conversion greater than
c 4,000s.f.ofbuilding SP/S SP/ SP/S SP/S SP/S
area N N R SP/SR SR R R N R
Page 22 of 27
RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
OS RMU
As a Principal Use NB LB CB 1-1 1-2 1-3 PSCD C D
Public or bonded
d warehouse,parcel or
goods distribution. N N N N N N N N N
Laboratories engaged
in research,
experimental and
testing activities,
including but not limited
to the fields of biology,
chemistry,electronics,
engineering,geology,
medicine,and physics.
1 All non-conversions;
and, new construction
and conversions up to
4,000s.f.of building
area N N N Y Y Y Y N Y
2. New construction or
conversion greater than
e 4,000s.f.of building SP/ SP/S SP/S SP/S
. area N N N SP/SR SR R R N R
f. Motor Vehicle Repair N N N SP SP SP N N N
g Motor Vehicle Body SP(
. Work N N N SP(4) 4) SP(4) N N N
h Wholesale business, SP/ SP/S SP/S SP/S
warehouse. N N N SP/SR SR R R N R
Self-Service Storage SP
i. Facility. N N N SP(9) (9) N N N N
Renewable or
alternative energy
research,development
or manufacturing facility
1 All non-conversions;
and, new construction
and conversions up to
4,OOOs.f.of building
area N N N Y Y Y Y N Y
---------------
2. New construction or
conversion greater than
4,OOOs.f.of building
j. area N N N SR SR SR SR N SR
k Medical Marijuana
. Treatment Center N N N SP SP SP N N SP
6. Heavy Industry
Page 23 of 27
RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
OS RMU
As a Principal Use NB LB CB 1-1 1-2 1 1-3 PSCD C D
Open-lot storage of
junk,scrap,paper,
rags,containers or
a other salvage waste
articles. N N N N N N N N N
Truck or bus terminals,
yard or building for
storage or servicing of
b trucks,trailers or buses,
parking lot for trucks. N N N N N N N N N
Place for exhibition,
lettering or sale of
gravestones or
monuments.
1.All non-conversions;
and,new construction
and conversions up to
4,000s.f.of building
area N N N Y N N N N N
2.New construction or
conversion greater than
c 4,000 s.f.of building
area N N N SP/SR N N N N N
Heavy Industry
1 All non-conversions;
and,new construction
and conversions up to
4,000 s.f of building
area N N N Y N N N N N
2.New construction or
conversion greater than
d 4,000 s.f.of building
area N N N SP/SR N N N N N
Storage of flammable
gas,liquids,or
e explosives(non-
accessory) N N N N N N N N N
Page 24 of 27
RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
OS RMU
As a Principal Use NB LB CB 1-1 1-2 1 1-3 PSCD C D
Any trade, Industry,or
other use that is
noxious,offensive or
hazardous by reason of
vibration or noise or the
emission of odors,dust,
gas,fumes,smoke,
cinders,flashing or
excessively bright light,
refuse matter or any
f. other cause. N N N N N N N N N
SECTION 5.02 TABLE OF ACCESSORY USE REGULATIONS [add to table as noted]
Accessory Use Only NB I LB CB 1-1 1 1-2 1-3 PSCD OSC RMUD
Within a dwelling unit that is
owner occupied,renting of not
more than two rooms as a
lodging without separate
cooking facilities and for not
a. more than two lodgers SP SP SP N SP SP N N N
Private greenhouse,tool
shed,
Swimming pool and kennel
not used as a part of a
business,and not offensive to
the neighborhood by reason
b. of noise,odor or other cause. Y Y Y Y Y Y SP N SP
Accessory parking and
garage as permitted in Article
c. IV Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y
d. Home Occupation SP SP SP SP SP SP SP N SP
e. Home Office Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y
Parking for Occupant's
business truck,exceeding%
f. ton capacity. SP Y Y Y Y Y SP N SP
Administrative offices,
clubrooms,and common
laundry room reserved for
occupant's use. Accessory to
g. multi-family dwellings. N N N N N N N N Y
Page 25 of 27
RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
Business accessory uses,
usual,not to include outside
service window or outdoor
h. storage of merchandise. Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y
Outside Service Window as a
Business accessory use,
usual,except for outdoor
i. storage of merchandise. SP SP SP SP SP SP SP N SP
Outdoor display and storage
of new merchandise subject
j. to screening provisions. SP SP SP SP SP SP SP N SP
Residence for caretaker or
k. janitor. N N Y Y Y Y Y N Y
New and used vehicles for
sale or lease and display and
storage of operable vehicles
I. only N SP SP SP SP SP N N N(15)
Business and professional
offices,schools operated for
gain,commercial recreation(if
completely enclosed),private
clubs,personal services(such
as barber,etc.),retail stores,
eating places(with or without
liquor)and banks,insofar as
they do not exceed 5%of the
gross floor area of the
apartment development on
m. the lot. N SP SP N N SP SP N SP
n. Licensed Day Care Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y
o. Family Day Care Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y
To allow residents to garage
in a permanent enclosed
structure on their property
Antique Motor Cars as
recognized by the
Commonwealth of
Massachusetts Registry of
p. Motor Vehicles Y Y Y Y Y Y Y N Y
Activities accessory to a
principal use permitted as a
right that are necessary in
connection with scientific
research of scientific
development or related
q. production. SP SP SP SP SP SP SP N SP
Page 26 of 27
RMUD Amendment update for 1/28/2016 Economic Development and Planning Subcommittee Meeting
Games of chance or similar
entertainment or amusement,
operated either live or through
audio or video broadcast or
close circuit transmission,
except at an establishment
that possesses an All
Alcoholic or Wine and Malt
r. License. N N N N N N N N N
Page 27 of 27
Town of Watertown
Town Council Committee on Economic Development and Planning
Meeting: February 2, 2016
Report: February 8, 2016
The Committee met Tuesday February 2, 2016 at 7:00 pm in the Richard E. Mastrangelo Chamber to make
recommendations to the full Town Council on the proposed Regional Mixed-Use (RMUD) zoning ordinance
text amendment. This was a continuation of the January 28, 2016 meeting.
Attending were: Committee members Susan Falkoff, Chair, Kenneth Woodland,Vice Chair,and Vincent
Piccirilli, Secretary; Planning Director Stephen Magoon; Senior Planner Gideon Schreiber; Town Council
President Mark Sideris, Councilors Michael Dattoli,Aaron Dushku, Lisa Feltner,Angeline Kounelis,Anthony
Palomba; and approximately 30 members of the public.
The Committee continued where it left off reviewing the Version 4 document from January 28 (which is
attached to the report of that meeting) as well as additional amendments from Councilor Dushku (see
attached). For each item,committee members were given an opportunity to ask questions,followed by
comments from the public,discussion by committee members and a vote.The votes were as follows
(underlining indicates the changes from the previous document):
1. Dushku Attachment: Section 5.18 (d)(2) Separation of parking: new section proposed:
"21 Separation of DarkinL-costs:Anv DarkinL-spaces offered to residents of the residential component of a
new development must be offered as a fee-based option distinct from charges established for rentinL-.
leasing, or Durchasin2 Drimarv-use space within the development.These fees shall reflect market realities
(i.e.the actual value of Darkinal."
Accepted 3-0 as proposed.
2. Dushku Attachment: Section 5.18 (d)(3) Smart parking technology: new section proposed:
"31 Smart ParkinL-TechnoloL-v: For Droiects with structured DarkinLi of over 100 spaces.it is reauired that
said structured DarkinL-install and emDlov smart Darking technologv(e.L. eauiDment to count the number
of vehicles enterinLi and exitine the Darkina area.availabilitv of spaces.etc.)."
Accepted 3-0 as proposed.
3. Attachment page 8: Section 5.18 (b)(8)(0 Paragraph 1,Authority and Procedure:
Voted 3-0 to not accept proposed changes
4. Attachment page 12: Section 5.18 (b)(8)(f)(7)(b) Extension of MPSP,new section,and also
Attachment page 9: Section 5.18 (b)(8)(f) second half of Paragraph 4,Authority and Procedure
Voted 3-0 to accept proposed new Section 5.18 (b)(8)(f)(7)(b) amended with an extension after 10 years
as shown (or similar language proposed by staff):
bl NotwithstandinLy the Drovisions of section 5.18.L-3.ten (101 vears from the issuance of a Master Plan
Special Permit.a building for which a Final Site Plan ADDroval has not been aDDlied. or (if a Final Site Plan
ADDroval has been issued for such buildinal. construction or DrinciDal use outside of a buildine has not
beL-un.shall not be constructed.nor shall such DrinciDal use be allowed.until the SPGA shall approve an
extension to the Master Plan Special Permit." and to not accept the proposed addition to the second half
Page 1 of 4
Committee on Economic Development and Planning, RMUD Report for Meeting February 2,2016
of Paragraph 4 Section 5.18 (b)(8)(f).
S. Attachment page 9: Section 5.18 (b)(8)(f) Paragraph 3 and first half of Paragraph 4,Authority and
Procedure with deletions and additions:
"A Petitioner-may wish to seek eoneeptual level approval of a large seale Mixed use PF0j ect,with detai
Final-Sita Plan Review Approvals f indi. i&a! Lxuildings under-§9.03 to r ro F/-JidiN Permits for-
individual buildings. In order to ensure that nearbv and Town-wide traffic.infrastructure.densitv.
connectivitv and visual impacts etc..from such Droiects are identified and coherently Dlanned to include
appropriate mitie-ation.the Petitioner vhall mav_ seek conceptual.Master Plan level aDDroval of a larLye
scale mixed use Droiect.This aDDroval shall be followed by detailed Final Site Plan Review ADDrovals of
individual Droiects or buildings under 9.03 that are to occur later.before issuance of anv Building Permits.
individual phsaaas and for the holistie eonsider-ation of a large seale mixed use pr-ojeet.The Master-Plan
Special D..,-,ti.it with Site Platy R ;,,.,,,, ,.. s provides the opper-tun"and ecK.-�n�rt Hof
large-seal^mixeduse^F*c^,�that r ay-be43*4t-n phroes.A Master Plan-level review Drovides the
Petitioner with the benefit of advance conceptual aDDroval for multiple Droiects to be implemented over
time. It also D_ rovides both the Petitioner and the Town with the oDDortunity and mechanism to consider
and address the cumulative impacts of all individual phases and for the holistic consideration and
mitie-ation Dlanning for the entire larger-scale.Droiect(sl that mav be built in phases."
Accepted 3-0 as proposed,with"shall"replaced with"may"and"mixed use"deleted.
6. Attachment page 9: Section 5.18 (b)(8)(f)(2) minor changes: No action.
7. Attachment page 10: Section 5.18 (b)(8)(f)(2)(c), (g), (i), (j), (k), (1): change as shown.
This also includes Dushku Attachment,last comment on Wayfinding.
"c) Cross section drawings indicating the relationship of the building or buildings to nearby buildings,
buildings on adioinina properties,streets,open spaces,and Darklands. Both aerial and pedestrian level 3D
views shall be included to fully depict the visual impact of the design from both Dublic ways and from
several kev view Doints within the Droiect develoDment area:"
"g) Shadow Analysis depicting internal and external impacts of morning_.mid-day and evening_ shadows at
both solstices and eauinoxes;"
"i)Verification that adea_uate sewer capacity is available or that the Droiect will suitably increase can_ acity
as required.
j) Complete.conceptual level stormwater management plan demonstrating the develoDment's aD_ Droach to
on-site Storm-water Management and adeauacv of connections to regional mains.
k) Open Space Plan,including location,size,characteristics (pervious vs impervious),uses and public
accessibility of all open space areas. Conceptual wavfinding sigynage for Daths.access to Darks.and transits
at a minimum.with detailed Dlans to be submitted within a sianaae Dackaee as part of a Building Permit.
1) List of reauired Federal.Massachusetts.or Watertown environmental licenses.D_ ermits.filines.or
restrictions.currently in effect or anticipated.
Accepted 3-0 as proposed,with"packet"changed to "package"
Page 2 of 4
Committee on Economic Development and Planning, RMUD Report for Meeting February 2,2016
8. Attachment page 10: Section 5.18 (b)(8)(f)(3): Review of Application change as follows:
"Review of Application: The SPGA shall hold a public hearing in accordance with procedures outlined in
§9.04.The SPGA shall not approve a Master Plan Special Permit unless it finds that the four conditions for
Special Permit approval set forth in§9.05(b) of this Zoning Ordinance have been met and that the Dronosed
develoDment is in keening with the intent and Durpose of the RMUD Ordinance as set forth in&5.18.a.The
Petitioner's submission of and the review of the conceptual level plan component of a Master Plan Special
Permit shall follow the procedures set forth in§9.03.The SPGA shall not approve such a Master Plan
Special Permit unless it finds that the Petitioner has satisfactorily addressed,at a conceptual level,the ten
criteria listed in§9.03(c)."
Accepted 3-0 as amended by the committee replacing"will satisfy or meet"with"is in keeping with".
9. Attachment page 10&11: Section 5.18 (b)(8)(f)(4) first paragraph: Parking reduction change as follows:
"Parking Reduction: In granting a Master Plan Special Permit,the SPGA may reduce the number of required
parking spaces,based on the availability of public transportation alternatives at or near the RMUD master-
planned project,the transportation demand management programs implemented or to be implemented as
part of the RMUD Master Plan,comDatibility with anv transportation Dolicv adoDted by the Town,the
ability of uses with peak user demands at different times to share parking spaces or other factors for which
the Petitioner provides f1.a parking study or analysis prepared under the direction of a Professional
Engineer or Architect with the requisite experience in conducting such analysis,using standards and
methodologies promulgated by the Institute of Transportation Engineers,the Urban Land Institute,or
other appropriate source,and for includinal fiil a transportation demand management Dlan prepared to
best Dractices standards for such Dlans in Massachusetts."
Accepted 3-0 as proposed.
10. Attachment page 11: Section 5.18 (b)(8)(f)(4) second paragraph: Requiring participation in a TMA.
Voted 3-0 to not accept the change.
11. Attachment page 11: Section 5.18 (b)(8)(f)(4)third paragraph: Requiring a security bond for parking.
Voted 3-0 to not accept the change.
12. Attachment page 16: Section 9.03(c)(7): Environmental sustainability: Significant changes proposed.
This was not part of the advertized notice and includes districts beyond RMUD.
Voted 3-0 to not accept the change.
13.DCDP staff provided an additional sheet of comments received 2/2/16 (see attached).
#1 Local Business set-aside-already discussed. No action
#2a Affordable Housing-already discussed. No action
#2b Local Business set-aside-already discussed. No action
#2c Co-working space-not appropriate for a zoning ordinance.No action
#3 Frontage Limitations-in Design Guidelines. No action
#4 Transparency-in Design Guidelines. No action
The Committee agreed that the Town Council should look at ways to encourage small businesses in town.
Motion by the Committee Voted 3-0: To refer to EDP Committee a discussion how to encourage and
support small businesses.
Page 3 of 4
Committee on Economic Development and Planning, RMUD Report for Meeting February 2,2016
14.Councilor Falkoff brought up an email from Jocelyn Tager requesting that"Community Solar"be made
part of the RMUD. The Committee determined that this was a town-wide issue,better addressed by the
Town's Energy Committee,and did not take any action on this proposal.
15.Gideon Schreiber raised the issue,after discussion with a resident,that Attachment page 7:
5.18(b)(5)(b) on Height,which this Committee amended on January 28,had some confusing language that
conflicted with language elsewhere. He proposed that we change it as follows:
"b) Maximum height of building: For-new eonstFUetien, 55 feet by Special Permit-or 79 feet by Master Plan
Special Permit,or 130 feet by Master Plan Special Permit within a defined mixed-use project,using adopted
Design Guidelines and the allowed FAR of 2.0 to detmmkna height up to c manim. = ^��eet,provided
the project includes a diversity of building heights and furthering the intent and purpose of the RMUD."
Accepted 3-0 as proposed.
There being no more comments from the Committee or the public, Councilor Falkoff closed the meeting.
The Committee has completed its review and will present four Committee reports for acceptance by the
Town Council at the Public Hearing on February 8, 2016.
The DCDP will compile all changes from the last four EDP meetings and show them with tracked changes
from the proposal that was presented to the Town Council at the December 1, 2015 Public Hearing.
The final RMUD Zoning Text Amendment will be reviewed by the Town Attorney prior to the February 8
meeting.
The meeting adjourned at 9:10 pm
This report prepared by Vincent Piccirilli
Page 4 of 4
Aaron Dushku Requested Amendments Submitted 10:40 PM on 1/27/2016 with suggested updates by DCDP
Staff
Section 5.18 (d) Parking Requirements:
1) Off-street parking shall comply with the requirements of Article VI of the Watertown Zoning Ordinance.
2)Separation of parking costs:
Anv parking spaces offered to residents of the residential component of a new development must be offered
as a fee-based option distinct from charges established for renting, leasing,or purchasing primarv-use space
within the development.These fees shall reflect market realities(i.e.the actual value of parking).
buildings to Fesid-ential use of 5 dwelling units aF meFel
,;hall be leased-eF sold sepaFately fFem the Fental oF purc-h-ase fees,feF dwelling unius far the life of the
space. Demers 9F buyeFs.,f en-site lust ,naFy affeFdable units pFavided p117cuer,#_ir.Cec-tio n 5.07 shall have
FenteFs
3)Smart Parking Technology:
For projects with structured parking of over twenty*heusand (10,000) ^FOSS scluaFe 100 spaces,it is
required that said structured parking install and employ smart parking technology(e.g. equipment to count
the number of vehicles entering and exiting the parking area, availability of spaces, etc.).
Section 5.18 (h) Circulation:
1) Special consideration shall be given to infrastructure and design that will create direct public bicycle and
pedestrian path connections with adjacent public bicycle or pedestrian paths, and that minimizes barriers
separating such paths.
2)When appropriate.Applicant shall submit a conceptual wayfinding signage proposal for paths,access to
parks, and transit,at a minimum,with detailed plans shall tube submitted within a signage packet as part of
a Building Permit.
Addendum of additional Comments Received—EDP Committee 2/2/2016
1. Accommodating Local and Independent to bolster the local economy: 'Locally based and
Independent Retail - No more than fifty percent (50%) of new retail space in the RMUD shall be
occupied by retailers who own and operate retail establishments at more than five (5) locations
in Massachusetts at the time the retailer's lease is initially executed.
2. Affordability in housing, office and retail space:
a) 15%of residential space shall be affordable to lower and middle-class residents: Our
town needs this for all new development to meet requirements. It would be good for
families and good for our affordable housing goals if we could raise the percentage of
affordable housing above the present 12 1/2 %.
b) %of retail space shall be affordable to small local start-ups in office and retail
locations.
c) A co-working space (like Work Bar, Oficio, or Idea-Space) shall be recruited to the
RMUD, or perhaps the developer shall choose to create its own shared-office space)
where local free-lance business folk can share the resources of that office to provide
affordable locations for them to do business outside their homes as needed.
3. Adopt "frontage limitations" for retail including banks and department stores with frontages
between 25'-40' along the street enhances the shopping experience and visual impact.
4. Transparency is another zoning consideration that makes for a livelier streetscape