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ARB says Barnum Avenue site shows little visible change after recommendations; pre‑engineered pods limit design options
Summary
The Architecture Review Board reviewed 725731 & 771 Barnum Avenue and reported minimal visible implementation of prior ARB recommendations — members noted pre‑engineered storage pods on site and limited opportunities to require design changes, though color variation and screening remain feasible.
At its Oct. 10, 2024 meeting the Town of Stratford Architecture Review Board revisited the 725731 & 771 Barnum Avenue site that had been referred by the zoning board of appeals. Staff said ARB had recommended upgrading a chain‑link fence to a metal fence, muting building colors, cleaning up the front parcels, adding greenery and screening dumpsters; it was unclear whether the ZBA required those conditions as part of its approval.
"I couldn't tell that ARB made an impact on the site when I saw this," Speaker 3 said after reviewing the photos. Board members who drove by the site and checked Google Earth reported the parcel remains overgrown and that pods or pre‑engineered units were present in the rear of the property. Speakers noted that because some units are pre‑engineered there are limits on what ARB can require, although color variation, additional screening and hiding dumpsters are suggested means to reduce visual impact.
Speaker 4 said the site may not be worth prolonged discussion at this point because nothing has been constructed where the board expected changes, and Speaker 3 agreed to track the file and locate decision letters for clarity. Members said the experience reinforces the need to tighten guidance and consider enforcement or clearer follow‑up so recommendations are more likely to be implemented when projects proceed.
Next steps: staff will search for decision letters and clarify whether ZBA approvals included conditions requiring ARB recommendations to be implemented; the board agreed to revisit the item if evidence shows a change in site conditions.
