Concept review: former substation at East Arcadia proposed as multi-vendor food court; board urges screening and durable surfacing

At a conceptual review, the University District Design Review Board discussed a proposal to renovate and expand two brick buildings at 21 East Arcadia Avenue into a multi-vendor food court with a central courtyard and vendor kitchens.

Staff noted the concept is broadly consistent with the University District Plan’s reuse goals but questioned why a driveway area and paved front apron were shown if no on-site parking is proposed; staff recommended enhanced screening and green stormwater design such as permeable pavers, plus consultation with the city forester on street trees. The submission included renderings, a site plan showing a courtyard, and interior renderings for vendor spaces.

The applicant described plans for ADA access, bike racks, a second-floor bar with outdoor terrace and the possibility of food-truck use in the courtyard. Board members advised the applicant to provide more bike parking, consider reinforced turf or permeable pavers if food trucks will use the west yard, address maintenance concerns with crushed aggregate, and add permanent shade structures or trees to improve summer usability. Several members praised the adaptive-reuse approach and recommended staff engagement on window types and building signage as the design progresses.

Because this was a conceptual review, staff made no recommendation for approval; the applicant will refine materials, paving and screening and return for later review.