Once stipulations are met, construction can begin
Posted on 08/26/2021
People enjoy the expanded outdoor space at the Exchange Bar & Grill. Soon, perhaps Spring 2022, there will also be rooftop dining. The Planning Commission on Aug. 17 granted approval of a combined preliminary and final site plan, with conditions, to Grant Baidas, owner of the Exchange Bar and Grill at 157 E. Main. Commissioners waived the requirement for a rear yard setback but stipulated the following three conditions:

1. Provide a revised site plan to the building official (Brent Strong) as part of the building permit process that shows the proposed building footprint, with the new stair structure, located on an updated property survey that includes land purchased from the city, and also shows the pedestrian accessway between the new stair structure and bank to the east of the property.

2. Provide plans for ground level and rooftop lighting to the building official to ensure it complies with the ordinance.

3. Obtain approval from the Historic District Commission and a sign permit for the existing building signage.

Work on Master Plan Subareas update

Members of the Planning Commission continued the discussion of the Master Plan update as it relates to the Racetrack Subarea and S. Center Street Subarea plans. The public also stated their views. (Those comments are included in the minutes and posted on the website after the Planning Commission approves the minutes, typically at their next meeting.)

At the previous workshop meeting on Aug. 9, City Planner Sally Elmiger gave an informative presentation on “density” – the number of housing units within an acre of land. She showed examples of how density works in new neighborhoods elsewhere in the U.S. She noted that good design can overcome some of the negative connotations that some people have about density. View the presentation here

New concepts to be presented for “the Downs”

At its next meeting, scheduled for Monday, Aug. 30 at 7 p.m. on Zoom, the Planning Commission will learn of new concepts for the Northville Downs property, presented by Hunter-Pasteur Homes and associates. View the website (proposed redevelopment projects) for detailed concepts of “the Downs.” The public is invited to this and all PC meetings. View the calendar section of the city website for the meeting link.