Board OKs four affordable townhomes on Market Street; grants narrow lot-width and parking relief

The Harrisburg Zoning Hearing Board on Oct. 20 approved variances and a special exception allowing the construction of four attached, affordable townhomes at 1605–1613 Market Street.

The Redevelopment Authority-backed project would consolidate five existing, narrow parcels and resubdivide them into four lots to support new rowhouse-style homes with front porches and second-floor bay windows to match the neighborhood character. The project is intended for first-time homebuyers; the applicant indicated units will be offered at prices targeted for lower-income buyers and include program funding support.

Because the residential medium-density zoning district requires a 20-foot minimum lot width, the two interior lots proposed at 16 feet each need variance relief; the two end lots are 21 feet and comply. Planning staff said consolidating and resubdividing the existing five nonconforming parcels will improve overall conformity even though two interior lots request a limited width variance. The special-exception relief addresses parking: under the city’s affordable-housing rules the project is required to provide half a space per unit (two spaces total); the applicant provided a draft agreement to lease spaces at a nearby church-owned lot and planning staff said the applicant has demonstrated access to required parking.

The Planning Commission recommended approval with conditions including final approval of the consolidation/subdivision and land-development plan, consideration of rear-yard or side fencing for privacy and safety, and departmental conditions tied to the land-development review. The board voted to approve the variances and special exception with the planning commission conditions; the applicant said it aims to break ground in the spring following approvals and financing.