The Cape Elizabeth Planning Board deemed the application for a Major Subdivision Review and Resource Protection Permit to construct an 18-unit condominium development at 90 Ocean House Road complete by a vote of 6-1.  Board member Alton Palmer voted against completeness. 

The project is called Blue Meadow and is being developed by Rob Barrett. Barrett presented his vision for an 18-unit condominium development at 90 Ocean House Road. This project, consisting of nine duplex buildings arranged around a landscaped circular access road, represents a major subdivision and is, therefore, subject to an extensive review process. Barrett's team detailed their plans for the site, including stormwater management strategies and a traffic impact study.

Stormwater management emerged as a critical concern, with the developers assuring the board that all runoff would be effectively handled on-site, mitigating any potential impact on neighboring properties. The traffic study indicated that the development would not significantly disrupt local traffic patterns, though the board suggested that further analysis might be needed as the project moves forward.

Board members expressed a cautious optimism about the Blue Meadow project. They recognized the need for new housing in Cape Elizabeth but emphasized the importance of a thorough and careful review. Several members raised questions about the project’s long-term effects, particularly regarding environmental sustainability and traffic flow. To address these concerns, the board scheduled a site visit for early September. This visit will be crucial for assessing the physical context of the development and its potential impacts.

As the meeting concluded, the Planning Board reiterated its commitment to meticulous review processes, public involvement, and sustainable development. The Blue Meadow subdivision is still in the early stages of the approval process, with the next steps involving the site visit, additional technical reviews, and the public hearing. Given the project’s complexity, final approval is not expected for several months, allowing ample time for further deliberation and community input.

The Planning Board will reconvene on September 17, 2024, to continue its work on the Blue Meadow subdivision and other pending applications. The board's careful and community-focused approach ensures that the town’s growth is thoughtfully managed, balancing the need for development with the preservation of Cape Elizabeth’s unique character.