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Commission notes deck at 77 Walden Street is visible in winter; asks owners to consider screening
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Summary
The commission determined a deck shown in earlier submittals for 77 Walden Street is visible from the public way in winter; while the HDC will not require changes retroactively it asked staff to contact owners with a request that they consider plant screening or other mitigation.
The Historic Districts Commission reviewed a neighbor’s concern and confirmed that a deck at 77 Walden Street—previously thought not to be visible from the public way—becomes visible in winter when vegetation is leafless. Commissioners said the deck could have been considered part of the submittal package and noted the oversight.
Staff explained that the set of drawings submitted last summer included the deck but the commission had focused on a window shown as visible from the street. At this meeting commissioners viewed winter photos showing the deck from the street. Commissioners discussed options: require a retroactive application (an after‑the‑fact certificate) or treat the matter as an omission and offer a more measured approach.
The commission chose a conciliatory path. Members said they would not order removal or require immediate corrective action but asked planning staff to notify the property owners, explain that the deck is visible in winter and that the commission would prefer screening or plantings to reduce visibility. The commission noted that future additions (pergolas, tall structures) would remain subject to HDC review.
How this matters: The item reflects the commission’s responsibility to monitor public‑way visibility year‑round and to address omissions in prior reviews with a priority toward mitigation and voluntary compliance when feasible.
