The Olympia's Site Plan Review Committee, on Wednesday, March 1, heard a project proposal of establishing an indoor dog park and retail space in an old warehouse at 511 Cherry Street, SE.
In the narrative submitted to the committee, the proposal is to use the main part of the warehouse as space for dogs and their owners to gather, walk around and socialize. In addition, the plan is to have dog training classes, guest processing, and retail space.
Marc Wiseman, the project applicant, said the city has an outdoor dog park, but most of the time, the weather is too unpleasant to bring their pets outside.
"I have many people who wish there was a place they could go and hang out and bring their dogs,” Wiseman said.
Wiseman said that 511 Cherry Street was an ideal location. "Many people live around there that don't have a place to take their dogs."
Planning and engineering review
Casey Schaufler, Olympia's assistant planner, reminded Wiseman that exterior changes would be subject to design review for the downtown district.
Schaufler added that the building is downtown parking exempt, except for bicycle parking. The change in occupancy may trigger parking requirements.
"We have to evaluate the bicycle parking in the area, including long-term and short-term bicycle requirements. For this one, it is at least one long-term bicycle parking, which can be located inside the facility, and then to short-term bicycle parking spaces," Schaufler explained.
Engineering plans examiner Zulaika Kim said dog urine and pet waste are considered industrial waste, not domestic. "There will be some requirements or type of treatment before it ends up in our sewer system."
She recommended a meeting with the city's waste engineer to discuss the requirements, if any.
Building plan examiner Jeff Finch said the building should fully comply with the energy code, meaning roof insulation, wall insulation, and other things. He recommended hiring a design professional.
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