Potential redevelopment proposed for former Citizens Bank building; application pending

During committee reports the Shade Tree Commission said Tim Rubin indicated an intent to submit a subdivision/land-development application for the former Citizens Bank site. Staff told the commission that no formal application had been filed yet but that, when received, the project will follow standard review procedures and the applicant will be scheduled to appear before the Shade Tree Commission as part of land-development review.

According to staff’s description of preliminary plans, the developer proposed keeping the historic corner building with ground-floor retail and converting its second floor to apartments, and demolishing a non-historic one-story portion to construct a new three-story building that would provide additional apartments. The plan would include a modest rear bump-out for commercial space, reconfigured parking and loading zones, and landscaping changes. Staff and the commission said those elements could require minor parking-lot adjustments and loading provisions.

The Shade Tree Commission said it will be asked to provide comments once the formal application is submitted. Staff estimated Rubin might submit in March with scheduling at the commission in April or May, but clarified no application had arrived by the meeting.

The committee did not act on the project; members requested staff notify the commission and committee when an application is filed so the commission can prepare species and planting recommendations as part of the review process.