The planning board heard an amendment (PDSP2024‑002 amendment) for an expansion of the previously approved Pearl Street parking garage, changing the approved 312‑space design to a taller structure with 455 spaces. TF Moran’s representative, Bob Duval, told the board the footprint and floor plan remain identical to the approved 312‑space layout; the amendment adds roughly one to two levels to accommodate the increased capacity.

Duval said the changes respond to recent direction from the Board of Mayor and Aldermen and follow previously required modifications: the proposal now specifies aluminum perforated screening (rather than fabric) and continuous opaque screening at the lower level to reduce headlight spill onto adjacent properties. The design keeps red brick accents and adds a more durable metal screening product similar to other city garages.

Board members asked about ownership and operational control (gates, pricing and management) because the structure is intended to be city‑owned and operated; TF Moran said final operational controls will rest with the city and that the owner/operational arrangements are not fully resolved. Alderman Joe Kelly Levasseur asked whether the board could approve the project the same night to meet aggressive construction scheduling to break ground before winter; the applicant said a two‑week delay would not affect the timeline but the board may vote the same night if staff felt comfortable with the final conditions and findings.

Members of the public raised questions at the hearing about whether the city and taxpayers are getting best value and whether surface parking could suffice for NeighborWorks' needs. One speaker noted NeighborWorks typically generates lower parking demand and asked whether a large city garage is cost‑effective. The applicant said the earlier design left surplus public parking and the expanded structure would replicate existing surface capacity plus accommodate housing demand. Staff said final materials and minor plan adjustments remain to be addressed in the condition sheet; the board closed the public hearing and will take up a vote in two weeks.