In a recent government meeting, the Newtonville City Council discussed a petition to amend a special permit for a residential project located at 120-126 Norwood Avenue. The proposal, presented by the planning department, seeks to remove a condition that limits the number of resident vehicles allowed to park on-site from six to eight by adding two additional parking stalls. The petitioner, represented by attorney Terry Morris, argued that the amendment is necessary to meet market demands and accommodate families who typically own multiple vehicles.

The existing site, which consists of four single-family attached homes, was initially approved in 2022 with specific parking limitations due to concerns about traffic and neighborhood impact. The planning department highlighted that the proposed changes would increase the amount of impervious paving on the site by over 1,100 square feet but noted that no relief is needed for open space or lot coverage.

During the public comment period, several residents expressed their opposition to the amendment, citing concerns about increased traffic congestion and the potential for the project to undermine the city’s efforts to reduce parking spaces in favor of more walkable neighborhoods. Critics labeled the request a \"bait and switch,\" arguing that the original agreement should be honored and that the city should not accommodate additional parking spaces that could encourage more vehicle use.

Council members engaged in a robust debate, weighing the need for additional parking against the city’s climate goals and the desire to promote sustainable living. Some councilors expressed support for the amendment, emphasizing the importance of keeping cars off the street, while others remained firm in their opposition, citing the need to adhere to previously established limits.

Ultimately, the council voted to approve the amendment, allowing the addition of two parking stalls, with the motion passing narrowly. The decision reflects ongoing tensions in urban planning between accommodating growth and maintaining community standards for sustainability and livability.