Claremont Planning Board Meeting - May 11, 2026

The Claremont Planning Board held a public hearing on May 11, 2026, to review a site plan application for a planned residential development at 492 Washington Street. The proposed project includes 68 multi-family dwelling units, 10 townhouse units, and one existing single-family residence, for a total of 79 units on an 18.18-acre lot. The board discussed traffic impacts, environmental considerations, and public comments, ultimately approving the application with conditions.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Victoria West, a neighboring property owner, expressed frustration that she was denied a curb cut for her property due to traffic concerns, while the proposed development would add traffic. She questioned what had changed and requested an explanation.
• Wayne McCutcheon, one of the property owners, provided historical context about the site and traffic on Washington Street, emphasizing the need for a left-turn lane into the development.

Discussion Items

• Application Overview: Austin (city staff) presented the project details, noting the need for a density variance and special exception, which were granted by the ZBA in March 2026. The site has a single-family home and outbuildings, with wetlands bisecting the property. The proposed density is one unit per 10,000 square feet.
• Traffic Study: Christine Triarchus (VHB traffic engineer) presented the study, projecting 41 new trips in the morning peak, 45 in the evening, and 38 on Saturday midday. The study found that a left-turn lane would be warranted by 2037 but a right-turn lane was not. Board members expressed concern about speeding and safety, and ultimately required a left-turn lane as a condition.
• Site Design: Rich Whitehouse (VHB project manager) described the layout, including a single wetland crossing, stormwater management, parking under the multi-family building, and landscaping. The board discussed snow storage, fire hydrant locations, and trash maintenance.
• Pedestrian Access: Staff noted that connecting the development to the nearby rail trail was desirable but complex; the board acknowledged the need for broader pedestrian infrastructure on Washington Street but considered it outside the scope of this project.

Key Outcomes

• Motion to Approve: The board voted unanimously (all ayes) to approve application PL 2026-0005 with conditions, including the requirement for a left-turn lane from the westbound direction on Washington Street, and the standard conditions regarding permits, recording, and expiration.
• Next Steps: The applicant must obtain permits, install the left-turn lane, and record the site plan within six months. The approval is valid for two years.