Commission approves materials and minor design changes for Keshet property at 791–799 Central Avenue

The Highland Park Plan and Design Commission approved an amendment on June 16 that authorizes several design changes to the previously approved redevelopment of 791–799 Central Avenue. Planner Anthony Mistrea told the commission the applicant seeks to change the gym addition’s exterior from a copper patina to a blue fiber-cement board, add thermoplastic color surfacing at the storefront area, replace an approved knee wall with bollards, and alter several storefront openings and the entry canopy dimensions.

“It's a relatively straightforward update,” said Alec Thornton, the project architect. “The goal was to bring a little bit more of Keshet’s identity to the building and to address some budget challenges.”

Mistrea told the commission the changes do not alter approved parking or the previously approved landscape plan and that there will be no additional building height. Commissioners asked about security and vehicle protection after staff said the knee wall would be replaced by circular bollards; Thornton said the bollard spacing meets standard vehicle-restraint spacing and will prevent vehicle access.

The commission also corrected a clerical date in the Certificate of Approval to reflect June 16, 2026. Vice Chair Josh Nannis moved to approve the certificate of design review approval, Commissioner Ken Henry seconded, and the commission voted 6–0 to adopt the amended certificate (roll call recorded by Director Fontaine with Commissioner Inchek voting remotely). The motion included an administrative amendment updating the COA date.

The commission’s approval authorizes the applicant to proceed with the revised materials and details; building permits and any subsequent construction-stage reviews will still be subject to standard city permitting and inspections.