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Planning board approves 5,400‑sq‑ft multiuse commercial building on Godfrey Drive
Summary
The Orono Planning Board approved a minor site plan for Rail Properties LLC to build a 5,400‑square‑foot multi‑unit commercial building on Godfrey Drive. The applicant said utilities are available, the plan shows 16 parking spaces, and wetlands impacts fall within a previously permitted footprint; the applicant will provide wetland disturbance figures on request.
The Orono Planning Board on July 15 approved a minor site plan for a 5,400‑square‑foot multiuse commercial building proposed on Godfrey Drive.
Justine Drake, a civil engineer with Hinkley Hill Designs representing Rail Properties LLC, said the project would build a 5,400 sq ft footprint with limited second‑story space, divided into three commercial units that would be available for lease. Drake told the board public sewer and water stubs are available to serve the site and the plan shows 16 parking spaces, including one accessible stall.
Drake said the site lies within footprints that were pre‑permitted when the commercial subdivision was permitted and that, based on expected tenancy, the development should not generate more than 100 peak‑hour trips that would require a traffic study. Planning staff confirmed the plan was reviewed against the town’s ordinance and noted parcel exchanges left the developer with adjacent land that could provide additional parking if future needs arise.
Board members pressed for clarity about side setbacks and a concrete pad shown for dumpster maneuvering that appeared within the setback. Drake explained the hatched area is shown to allow truck maneuvering and the 10‑by‑10 concrete square is the dumpster pad; she said she did not have the wetland‑disturbance acreage in front of her but that all proposed work is within the previously permitted footprint (appendix 5) and she would provide exact disturbance figures to the planning office.
A public hearing produced no comments from the online participant and no in‑room objections. A board member moved approval of the site plan per findings of fact dated 07/15/2026 and subject to conditions in the packet; the motion was seconded and approved.
What’s next: The applicant will respond to any follow‑up requests from the planning office, including a precise wetland‑disturbance number requested by the board.
