Board approves conversion of blighted Doctor's Row building to 15-unit affordable senior housing after multiple variances

The City of York Zoning Hearing Board on Oct. 14 approved RB Development's plan to convert the long-vacant, deteriorated building at 462'464 West Market Street (in "Doctor's Row") into a 15-unit affordable senior housing project with supportive services, approving multiple variances and a special exception necessary for the narrow, landlocked property.

Developer and presenter Blaine Stoddard and partner Ryan Sanders described the project as a 15-unit affordable housing conversion focused on seniors and people with disabilities and said local partners including the Hunter Group will provide supportive services. Architect Mark Shermyer of SAA Architects described a rehabilitation plan that preserves and restores the front façade, installs a new elevator tower, adds an NFPA-13 sprinkler system, reinstates compatible storefront inserts, and creates an open rear garage with room for eight secured parking spaces, trash and generator areas.

The board's record included the application, a July 31 letter from the building officer, deed, an agreement and amendment, an RDA letter…