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Torrington revises site plan for 125 Union Street; board continues review to April 8
Summary
Torrington Properties presented a revised redevelopment for 125 Union Street that reduces peak vehicle trips compared with the prior plan and keeps large intersection and pedestrian improvements; the Planning Board continued the review to April 8 to finalize peer‑review comments and draft conditions.
Torrington Properties presented a major modification to the previously approved redevelopment at 125 Union Street, revising the tenant mix and building footprints for two one‑story pads that will replace a former motel and restaurant. The developer said the revised program reduces traffic compared with the earlier Chick‑fil‑A layout, adds landscaping and improves site conformity (lot coverage and open space) and requested the board continue the public hearing so staff and peer reviewers can finalize comments and conditions.
Frank Marinelli introduced Torrington’s team and described the project’s history: Torrington purchased the site in 2022, removed blighted buildings and invested roughly $9.8 million in demolition and site work. The new proposal calls for an easterly 4,251‑square‑foot restaurant/fast‑food building and a westerly 10,180‑square‑foot retail/bank/restaurant pad. Jeff Dirk (VAI) summarized the transportation analysis and said the modification shows a substantial reduction in daily trips and in critical peak periods (weekday evening and Saturday midday) though morning peak trips are higher because Chick‑fil‑A is not part of the plan. Dirk described planned off‑site intersection reconstruction (Union/Grossman/Ivory) and pedestrian upgrades, including new sidewalks on Ivory Street and improved crosswalks.
Independent peer reviewers (Ty Lin/Bolling for traffic and Strongpoint for stormwater) reported they were satisfied with responses to prior comments; Strongpoint said most stormwater systems are already installed on the site from earlier works and that the small increase in impervious area was offset by other changes. The board and staff discussed specific draft conditions, monitoring and the possibility of limiting or adding requirements for transit/shuttle service. Torrington said it has letters of interest from potential tenants including Brookline Bank and reiterated the developer intends to implement the intersection improvements previously approved and reviewed by state agencies.
After discussion the board voted to continue the hearing to April 8 so the applicant and staff can circulate a redline of changes to previously adopted conditions, allow peer reviewers to close comments, and give the public time to review revised materials.
Why it matters: The 2.07‑acre site at a major traffic node on Union Street is being redeveloped to replace long‑standing blight; off‑site intersection and pedestrian improvements were a core part of the earlier approval and remain required with the modified plan.
