Summerville DRB denies final approval for 725 Central Avenue flex-space project, asks for redesign details

The Town of Summerville Commercial Design Review Board on Jan. 15 declined to grant final approval for a proposed flex-space commercial development at 725 Central Avenue and asked the applicant to return with a revised preliminary design that addresses outstanding site, landscape and architectural details.

Board members said the project — five buildings of roughly 5,000 square feet each with 53 parking spaces and underground utilities — requires clearer detail on tree protection, parking layout, stormwater detention, HVAC screening, electrical equipment placement, foundation planting and exterior materials before final approval. The board made and approved a motion to deny final approval and require a resubmission focused on the items discussed.

Becca (planning staff) summarized outstanding staff-level items and early approvals, noting changes since the last review: “they have revised their proposal to remove any encroachment from the 49 inches oak tree beside Building 1, with the exception of a canopy support that has been reviewed by the town arborist.” Abby Ransom, project engineer with Bowman Engineering, confirmed…