Associate Planner Holub described the history of parklets and the adoption of the parklet ordinance, parklet barriers, and the applicability of the Village Design Guidelines. He presented the design of the parklet furniture provided by the applicant. He also answered questions about the removal of the existing parklets, the proposed shade structure, and the configuration of the barriers.
Casey O'Connor, project applicant, explained the safety aspects that were considered when describing the layout of the parklet furniture. He also described his plans for running conduit under the sidewalk to provide power for heaters that would be mounted to the pergola, and future plans for renovations of the restaurant facade.
Chair Martin opened public comment. No public comment was received.
The Committee was supportive of the shade structures and furniture and suggested using planters to divide this parklet area from the adjoining parklet at 110 E Branch Street. The width of the pedestrian path of travel between the between and the posts of the shade structure was discussed and the Committee was supportive of making it wider than what is required by code. The Committee also suggested the installation of a planter box, or similar element along the safety barriers to prevent or discourage customers from sitting on them. In the event that the existing parklet furniture is replaced, the Committee stressed that it be consistent with the Design Guidelines.