Lewiston Planning Board approves Tree Street Youth building, contract zone

The Lewiston Planning Board approved a development application for Tree Street Youth to build a new educational facility at 143-145 Howe Street. The board also voted to send a favorable recommendation to the City Council for a contract zone at 860 Lisbon Street, though some members expressed concerns about traffic and pedestrian safety. Additionally, the board discussed amendments to the No Name Pond overlay district, with significant debate over proposed language changes.

Key points

• The board voted 6-1 to approve the Tree Street Youth development application, with conditions including a parking agreement and financial capacity documentation.
• The board voted 5-2 to recommend a contract zone for 860 Lisbon Street, changing it to Community Business zoning with reduced setbacks.
• Board members raised concerns about pedestrian safety and traffic congestion on Marston Street and Lisbon Street regarding the Lisbon Street contract zone.
• The board discussed amendments to the No Name Pond overlay district, with public commenters opposing changes that might reduce buffers around stormwater facilities.
• The board decided to table the No Name Pond overlay amendment to allow staff to refine the language and provide additional information.

Next steps

• Staff to work with the applicant on the parking agreement for the Tree Street Youth project.
• The board will revisit the No Name Pond overlay district language after staff provides further clarification and information.

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