Milton's landscape was poised for change as the Design Review Board (DRB), tasked with evaluating the aesthetics and design compatibility of proposed structures in the city, weighed in on several new development plans, including Chadwick Village, a commercial complex that could bring new business opportunities and convenience to the area off Arnold Mill Road. The DRB meeting, open to public attendance, was held yesterday at City Hall and was also streamed online for wider accessibility, demonstrating the city’s commitment to transparency and community involvement in its development processes.
At the DRB session, a multitude of projects were on the table. Alongside the proposed Chadwick Village, the Board scrutinized two demolition requests. One targeted the demolition of structures at 1105 Birmingham Road, including a house, a pool house, a barn, stable, shed, and an asphalt driveway spanning a 24.6-acre property. Another request aimed to remove outbuildings on a neighboring 50.1-acre estate, as per the City of Milton's official announcement. The DRB's authority extends beyond new construction, allowing it to vote on demolition applications, a unique characteristic that sets it apart from other city boards.
Among the additional items under their purview, courtesy reviews were conducted for proposed variances. One such review involved 3501 and 3499 Bethany Bend, where rezoning transitioned from residential to an institutional setup, paving the way for an expansive new development for the private Milton Montessori school. Issues such as setbacks and landscape strips were discussed, and a proposal to narrow a sidewalk by a foot raised eyebrows but also sparked opportunities for dialogue. Another review addressed a barn at 16135 Lively Road, focusing on reducing animal housing setbacks. Additionally, a review at 980 Birmingham Road proposed signage exceeding the usual height and breadth limits.
Phase Two of the Chadwick Village project, located at 13625 Arnold Mill Road, promises the addition of 18,030 square feet spread across three new buildings. This expansion will complement an already approved convenience store and associated amenities, all awaiting architectural and building approval to move forward. The DRB's role in shaping the final outcome reaffirms its influence in guiding the city's commercial landscape. As part of the agenda, a simpler change involving a Chase Bank at 15800 Birmingham Highway entailed a shade shift from red to gray, requiring the DRB's approval. This concluded a session that outlined the future landscape of Milton's commercial development, with the next meeting scheduled for early August, signaling ongoing oversight and refinement in municipal development.
