Challenge

The Town of Manchester hired MSK to support the redevelopment of a Town-owned property into a mixed commercial/residential community. Located at 301 Depot St., the property is 1.39 acres in size and is currently occupied by three commercial 6,000 square foot commercial buildings with associated parking. The Town's ultimate goal is to convert the existing three buildings into a mix of office/retail and residential, while also constructing a completely residential building on the back portion of the property.   

Solution

We developed an existing conditions plan to serve as the basis for preliminary site analysis and assessment activities, as well as the development of the conceptual site plan. This enabled us to gain a better understanding of the site conditions, identify potential development and regulatory issues, and ensure onsite parking was considered when developing the units. 

As part of the preliminary site assessment our team reviewed the deed and related records for the subject and surrounding parcels in the land records. We performed an initial survey of the lot using a combination of Lidar and on-site data collection to verify the location of the existing buildings, roadways, paths, utilities, floodplain impacts, environmental conditions, natural features, parking/access, as well as a permitting review of all applicable state and local permits.  

Results

In conjunction with the Town, we developed a conceptual site plan that includes a proposed building, access drive, traffic circulation and parking areas. The plan demonstrates how the building footprint and accompanying site features will be accommodated within the developable area on the lot. A final plan for the Town's use was delivered on July 6, 2022. 

At a Glance

• Client: Town of Manchester, VT   
• Location: 301 Depot St., Manchester, VT
• Dates: 2021-2022
• Services Provided:
  • Act 250 Coordination
  • Concept Design
  • Coordination with Local & State Regulators
  • Feasibility Review/Scoping Study
  • Survey