By Joan F. Simoneau, Community Reporter
Marlborough – Plans for 40 new downtown apartments were presented to the City Council at the Nov. 16 meeting by George Voyiatzis, owner of Fish Restaurant and Wine Bar. He is proposing a mixed-use project, an addition of four floors to the existing commercial property on the 21-29 South Bolton St. site.
“I understand that this is the first mixed-use project submitted under the new zoning provisions for the Marlborough Village District, and Mr. Voyiatzis is eager to get started on this exciting, transformative project in downtown Marlborough,” said Attorney Arthur Bergeron of Mirick O’Connell Attorneys at Law in a communication to councilors.
The Atrium Place project site plan was referred to the Urban Affairs Committee for study and recommendation to the full council.
City Councilor-at-large Mark Oram asked, “Are we ready for this? Are we ready to provide parking for the tenants?”
He said he is in favor of the project but emphasized the need to study in committee parking requirements along with whether the city will provide public transportation to support additional activity in the downtown area.
When the four-story addition is completed, the top four floors will feature 10 one- and two-bedroom apartments. The first floor will maintain space for businesses currently occupied by Starbucks, Dominos Pizza, Stony Brook Market and Melon Frozen Yogurt.
The purpose of the Marlborough Village District, as outlined in the official document approved by the City Council last November, is to implement smart growth principles with development that is compatible with the character of downtown Marlborough. The Marlborough Village District is envisioned as the hub of community places that reflect and celebrate the existing historic character and enhances the traditional village atmosphere. The vision is to build value and to support employers with a downtown that attracts visitors and helps to retain and recruit employees while creating new housing opportunities.
