Developer previews proposed OneNorth mixed‑use building with grocer, gym and apartments in Bayside

Cobalt Partners and Rinka presented an early concept for a mixed‑use building at OneNorth that would combine a full‑service grocery, a fitness club and residential apartments on Parcel 022‑9990‑022, project representatives told the Village of Bayside Joint Plan Commission and Architectural Review Committee on March 3.

Scott Yauck, president of Cobalt Partners, and Buck Knitt, an architect with Rinka, outlined the proposed site plan, circulation, parking assumptions and potential building materials and said sidewalks and internal pedestrian connections are planned to improve walkability across the OneNorth campus. Yauck said the developer is working with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation to acquire an unincorporated triangle south of the site that could allow a larger southeast intersection and improve traffic flow.

The project team described two rooftop elements: one green roof intended as an inaccessible vegetated roof and a second roof area designed more like a courtyard that would be accessible to apartment residents. On housing demand, Yauck pointed to local leasing patterns, saying "the Symphony Apartments are already 95% leased out," and estimated construction would take about 21 months after tenants are locked.

Village staff and commissioners flagged operational and infrastructure issues they want addressed before any formal application. Police Chief Gina Kleeba raised concerns about the southeast parking spaces along Grace Street; Village Planner Jackie Mich requested more analysis of parking along Grace, traffic circulation, the southeast intersection, the south‑side drop‑off area and additional green space and connectivity between buildings and parking lots. Village Engineer Emily Basalla specifically called out the south‑side drop‑off configuration as a concern.

Commissioners and staff asked for an updated traffic study. Commissioner Tom Houck questioned whether the single traffic signal at Grace Street and Port Washington Road would handle additional traffic; the developer said an updated traffic study is planned. Chairperson Eido Walny asked how frequently delivery trucks would arrive to inform loading and circulation design. Village Manager Andy Pederson said staff reviewed patterns in other North Shore communities, including Mequon, to understand how grocery stores and fitness centers affect call volume and traffic, and recommended the developer include timing information and an updated analysis in any formal submittal.

A Bayside resident, Betsy Smith, raised concerns during public comment about the amount of impermeable surface the project would add and the potential impacts on stormwater management and traffic exiting onto Port Washington Road.

The prepetition conference was held to solicit initial feedback from commissioners and the Architectural Review Committee; Pederson outlined the future meeting steps the applicant would follow for formal review. The meeting adjourned at 5:56 p.m.