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Plan Board work session explores redevelopment options for Warren & Adams block; billboard design is central concern
Summary
At a May 12 work session, staff and applicants discussed development constraints for the Warren/Adams block, including utility relocations, parcel consolidation and moving a Lamar Outdoor Advertising billboard; the board favored rooftop integration and set no formal action.
The City Plan Board held a work session on May 12 to review conceptual plans for the block bounded by Warren Street, Adams Street, Nathan Place and Oak Street. Staff and the applicant outlined utility, right‑of‑way and billboard constraints and sought guidance on design and redevelopment strategy.
Tony Kroeger presented site maps and explained constraints including existing underground and overhead utilities, right‑of‑way issues and billboard ownership. He reviewed a site plan prepared by the applicant and possible standards that could be included in a future Planned Development.
Representatives from the applicant team — including Matt Sauer (Matthew Sauer Architect LLC) and Dan Stack of Dent Logistics — described the properties they own, a history of development obstacles on the block, and their aim to attract a restaurant tenant. The applicant outlined a sequence of steps to make the site buildable: establish a planned development, vacate Brown Street as needed, acquire property, negotiate a lease with Lamar Outdoor Advertising to relocate the billboard, consolidate parcels, relocate power and storm sewer lines, clean up easements, record a plat, and then market the site to tenants.
Board members discussed billboard alternatives. Ms. Ann Schenking said she did not want billboard size or height increased and preferred that the static face remain static; Mr. Greg Scott said he preferred retaining the billboard as a non‑conforming use. Emily Crow, Deputy Director of the Department of Planning and Community Development, observed that rooftop‑mounted signage could be integrated into a building and would likely have less impact on the overall site plan than a pole‑mounted sign.
During public comment, Tracy Kraft (627 and 621 Warren Street) raised concerns about individuals with mental illness in the area, use of RTA benches and indecent behavior, the potential for alcohol service at a prospective restaurant, and parking and traffic impacts. The board provided guidance to the applicant but took no formal action at the work session.
The discussion will inform potential future applications for planned‑development review and final site design at the Plan Board.
