HomeMy WebLinkAboutJ_Admin_Condition 4 letterJune 18th 2019
Jill Ding
Senior Planner
1055 S Grady Way
Renton, WA 98057
RE: Project: PR19-000206 Penney Lofts
Regarding the findings on the proposed project we ask that the staff condition in #4 “Recreation Areas
and Common Space” be waived. Alternatively, we ask that that the intent of #4 is reasonably met given
the constraints of the building and the re-purposing of a long term vacant building.
This is an exciting project for the City and Residents with a huge amount of positivity. It is the owner’s
intention to use the existing open space that is available to be inviting to the public. We currently have a
large alcove/patio on 3rd (~250sf) and a smaller alcove on Burnett (~100sf).
The demising of the ground floor retail into several commercial spaces will promote pedestrian activity
to a wide variety of people. The corner space of the Building on Burnett/3rd will be leased to restaurant.
We will go to great expense for this to occur and to have new storefront windows and doors including
some opening windows. In regards to the restaurant and any other applicable businesses we will
encourage outdoor seating as allowed by current codes for public use. The alcove on 3rd will be made
available to the public and seating, tables, or benches are likely. The alcove along Burnett has two large
display storefront windows. One display will be used to display historic pictures and descriptions of the
building and its neighboring history with the help of the Renton History Museum. The other display will
be used as an art display with the help of the Renton Arts Commission and/or private local artists.
Establishing a “fee in lieu of” or other restrictions are unduly onerous to the project and does not give
fair credit for the renovation and re-use of a building that will benefit the City and Public Good. The
guidelines were largely tailored to new construction and not fully intended for this type of a unique
project. It is believed that this project on its own merits will accomplish meeting the intentions of #4
“Common Space and Recreation”.
Thanks for your consideration.
Dave Smith
Penney Lofts LLC
PO BOX 9606
Seattle, WA 98109
206.660.8408