Ares Industries seeks smaller expansion at 576 Elizabeth; staff recommends screening and solid fencing

The Plan Commission heard a consultation from staff and Ares Industries (represented by Berg Management) for a proposed roughly 7,500-square-foot addition at 576 Elizabeth Street that would accommodate a one-way assembly line and restore a portion of a previously demolished building.

Staff noted the Board of Zoning Appeals earlier granted a variance to rebuild at the property line and recommended either combining the property with the adjacent parcel (550 Elizabeth) or recording a cross-access easement. The proposed work includes repaving a deteriorated parking lot, adding about seven new parking stalls on the west side, creating a secure parking area in the southwest corner and improving perimeter landscaping. Staff preferred a solid fence rather than chain-link with privacy slats, citing long-term durability concerns.

Applicant representative Mark Rellinger (Berg Management) said clearestory windows are not possible on the railroad-facing wall because of a two-hour fire barrier, that color-matching and landscaping options are under consideration, and that he is open to alternative screening and materials. The fire department also advised that a sprinkler system will likely be required for the addition and the applicant acknowledged that requirement.

Because this was a consultation, no action was taken. Staff requested feedback on facade treatment, parking re-striping and fence types; commissioners generally supported repaving and screening improvements and encouraged the applicant to return with formal plans that address staff comments and the cross-access/parcel-combination question.