Design Review Board approves slotted-aluminum screening for transformer and fuel tank at 25 Filus Street

Saratoga Springs’ Design Review Board on Sept. 10 approved exterior modifications at 25 Filus Street that accommodate an electrical service upgrade, including placement of a pad-mounted transformer and an above‑ground fuel tank, with conditions for screening and finish.

Engineers for the project told the board National Grid requires a pad-mounted transformer for the larger service; the transformer location and an above‑ground fuel tank are placed close to the sidewalk because of existing utilities. The applicant had proposed a black chain-link fence with privacy slats to match existing site conditions; during review the applicant also offered a slatted aluminum privacy fence option.

Board members expressed concern about pedestrian experience and recommended a slatted (not solid) screen along the pedestrian walkway. After discussion the board approved the project with three conditions: the fence screening shall be slotted aluminum per the application options; the fence height shall be 8 feet around the fuel tank to screen access stairs and tank filling points and 4 feet around the transformer that sits nearer the walkway; and fuel piping shall be painted to match the building.

The motion to approve with those conditions was made by Jeff Wood, seconded by Rob DeBauf, and carried in voice vote. The board and applicant also discussed painting of conduits and routing so the new conduits would blend with the façade.