Planning Board 09-28-26

The Franklin Planning Board held a meeting on September 28, 2026, primarily focused on site plan reviews and development proposals for properties at 839 Upper Union Street, 555 King Street, and 9-15 Main Street. Key procurement-related discussions centered on the proposed redevelopment of 9-15 Main Street, where the applicant seeks approval for a four-story mixed-use building with 57 residential units and commercial space. The board and public raised concerns about waivers requested for building height, unit density, and parking ratios, noting that the project exceeds current zoning limits of three stories and 19 residential units. The applicant emphasized economic feasibility challenges with a three-story design and the need for waivers. Peer reviews from Beta Group and town departments highlighted engineering, drainage, and traffic considerations, with a separate traffic meeting scheduled for October 19. The board requested additional renderings comparing three- and four-story options, detailed parking and commercial space data, and design revisions to address community concerns about scale, aesthetics, and accessibility. The public expressed mixed views, with some supporting revitalization and others opposing the scale and parking shortfall. The board voted to continue the public hearing to October 19 for a focused traffic discussion and to allow the applicant to respond to feedback. No contract awards or vendor selections were made during this meeting.