UDC approves Hull Street Library exterior overhaul after debate over artificial turf

The Urban Design Committee on July 10 approved final location/character review for the Green and Richmond Public Library’s Hull Street Branch project at 1400 Hull Street, endorsing stormwater bioretention basins, pervious paving in the parking/walk zones and an artificial-turfed outdoor reading/play area after committee debate about whether plastic turf fits the project’s sustainability goals.

The project, located in the Blackwell neighborhood at Hall Street and East 14th Street, would replace some impervious surfaces with engineered pervious pavers and install bioretention basins to infiltrate stormwater runoff from the roof, sidewalks and parking lot, increase shade, add seating and create a small public park and outdoor reading space, according to the applicant’s presentation.

Committee members pressed the design team on the…