329 West Market LLC seeks variance to convert commercial spaces to apartments

In a recent meeting of the Scranton City Council, the Zoning Hearing Board discussed a significant proposal from 2 9 West Market LLC, which seeks to convert two commercial spaces into residential apartments at 329 West Market Street. This property, previously a funeral home, currently houses two apartments and two planned commercial units. However, the owner has struggled to attract tenants for the commercial spaces, prompting the request for a variance to transform them into additional apartments.

Architect Jordan Clark, representing the client, explained that the conversion would allow for a total of four residential units in the existing building. The proposal also includes a potential future phase to add four more units at the rear of the property, contingent on financial feasibility. This second phase, however, was not the focus of the current meeting, as the board opted to address only the immediate conversion of the commercial spaces.

The board members expressed concerns about approving plans for the additional units without a clear design or timeline. They emphasized the importance of ensuring that the existing building meets all zoning requirements, including off-street parking, which the proposal satisfies with adequate space for 17 vehicles, including handicap spots.

Community members, including Fred and Lorraine Babarsky, raised questions about the previous approvals for the property and the shift from commercial to residential use. The Babarskys expressed confusion over the changes, but the board clarified that the current proposal aims to enhance the property's viability by increasing residential options in a market where commercial interest has waned.

The meeting concluded with the board deciding to postpone discussions on the proposed addition until next year, focusing solely on the immediate need to convert the commercial spaces into apartments. This decision reflects a broader trend in Scranton, where the demand for housing continues to rise, and the city grapples with the challenges of revitalizing underutilized properties. The outcome of this proposal could set a precedent for similar conversions in the area, highlighting the ongoing evolution of urban spaces in response to changing economic conditions.