Neighbors press concerns about parking and trash as planning board continues review of 6-unit Main Street project

The planning board continued the public hearing on a proposed three-story addition and lot merger at 193/195 Main Street, a project that would add six residential units to an existing mixed-use property. Attorney Taylor Palmer (Speaker 12) presented updates including an enlarged trash enclosure, a recorded private easement with 8 Cliff Street to enable turning movements, permeable pavers and updated lighting and refuse calculations.

Neighbors and business owners raised operational objections focused on refuse and parking. Corinne Bryson (Speaker 13), owner of Florida Times at 197 Main, said the proposed construction appeared to create an enclosed corridor that could obstruct a required rear means of egress for her shop and complicate deliveries. "Losing that access would make normal operations more difficult and more importantly, less safe," she told the board. Several residents and tenants also testified in support of the applicant and described the owner as a long-term landlord.

Traffic and parking consultants acknowledged overnight parking availability within a typical 500-foot radius but said weekend daytime demand is heavier. The applicant—s traffic consultant (Speaker 15) said his counts showed off-street spaces are available overnight and that the project code range (0—6 spaces) allows the board discretion; the project proposes one on-site ADA-accessible space plus reliance on nearby public and municipal spaces. Board members asked the applicant to provide: clear documented access/easement mapping, refuse-haul procedures and calculations for weekly service, photographic and elevation views showing the narrow access corridor and its width, and a clearer demonstration that neighbors—s egress will not be impeded. The board kept the public hearing open for those follow-ups.