Highland Park ZBA approves large front-setback variance for 175 Prospect Ave.

The Highland Park Zoning Board of Appeals on Oct. 16 approved a variance permitting a new single‑family home at 175 Prospect Avenue to encroach 28.5 feet into the established front‑yard setback, by a 5–2 roll‑call vote.

The request will allow the new primary structure to locate nearer the street than the block’s established building setback of 68.5 feet; the board approved the relief to permit a new house the applicant says is roughly the same size as the existing house and sited to keep improvements away from a ravine at the rear of the lot.

The matter returned to the board after a June hearing with more detailed site plans and elevations. The applicant, represented by attorney Cal Bernstein, argued the lot’s configuration — a corner, pie‑shaped building envelope constrained by a ravine and steep‑slope zone — creates a practical hardship that leaves no reasonable alternative location for a functioning backyard and a side‑loading garage. “The house … will be demolished after the delay is expired,” Bernstein said, noting the property change of ownership and that demolition cannot occur until the historic preservation delay concludes on Feb. 14, 2026. Architect Michael Hershinson described…