Hamden PZC Approves Quinnipiac Dining Hall Expansion

HAMDEN, CT — The Hamden Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously approved at its meeting last month a major amendment to Quinnipiac University’s Mount Carmel campus development plan that clears the way for renovations and an expansion of the Carl Hansen Dining Hall.

The vote followed a public hearing on the proposal, which calls for a roughly 1,600-square-foot rear addition to the dining hall, remodeling of the loading dock, and extensive interior renovations, according to meeting minutes.

The project is located within the university’s Planned Development District, requiring commission approval for changes to the final site development plan.

Attorney Bernard Pellegrino, representing Quinnipiac University, said the amendments were “modest” and consistent with the scope and intent of the existing Planned Development District. Pellegrino told the commission the application met all bulk standards under the district’s regulations and that staff-recommended conditions of approval were acceptable to the university, according to the meeting minutes.

Quinnipiac Vice President of Facilities and Capital Planning Salvatore Filardi said the project is driven by the university’s desire to expand dining options for students, including the introduction of an “all-you-can-eat” dining plan.

Engineer Howard Pfrommer of Nathan L. Jacobson & Associates said the back of the building would be expanded by around 1,600 square feet and the loading dock behind it remodeled. The remaining work would be primarily interior renovations. He said that the proposed construction area was generally already impervious surface aside from a small grass courtyard, according to the meeting minutes.

Pfrommer also said existing water, sewer and gas infrastructure is sufficient to support the project, and roof drainage from the addition will connect to the campus’ existing stormwater system. Two new grease traps will tie into the sanitary system, pending approval from the Greater New Haven Water Pollution Control Authority.

Architect Hernan Pagan said the renovated facility will accommodate seating for 222 students and include a larger kitchen to support expanded food service. He clarified that the project does not increase seating in areas that were previously used as a bookstore.

No members of the public spoke in favor of or against the application during the hearing.

The commission approved the amendment subject to conditions outlined in a Dec. 9 staff report, including implementation of soil erosion controls and the applicant obtaining all necessary permits from state, town and utility agencies.