Zoning Board approves variance for Lowell Central Electric's residential development project

The Lowell Zoning Board of Appeals convened on May 29, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including variance requests for two properties in the city.

The meeting began with a motion from Mr. McCarthy regarding ZBA 2025-20, which sought variance approval for 532 Gorham Street. The request included relief from driveway setback requirements as outlined in section 6.1, as well as from landscape open space requirements under section 5.3. The motion received a second from Mr. Prokope and was subsequently approved through a roll call vote, with all members in favor. The applicant expressed gratitude for the board's decision before concluding this item.

Following this, the board moved to the next item under new business, where Mr. Briere announced his recusal from the upcoming petition. The focus then shifted to ZBA 2025-19, submitted by Lowell Central Electric Company, Inc. This petition requested a variance to construct an 80-unit residential development at 534 to 556 Chemsford Street. The property is situated in the suburban neighborhood multifamily (SMF) zoning district and requires multiple approvals under section 5.1, including relief for minimum area per dwelling unit, usable open space, maximum floor area ratio, maximum building stories, and maximum building heights. Additionally, relief from off-street parking requirements under section 6.1 was sought.

Attorney John Cox, representing Lowell Central Electric Company, introduced the petition, highlighting the company's long-standing presence in the community since the 1950s and its employment of approximately 50 local residents. The board engaged in discussions regarding the implications of the proposed development and the variances requested.

The meeting concluded with the board's acknowledgment of the petitions and the next steps in the approval process. Overall, the session underscored the board's commitment to addressing community development while balancing zoning regulations.