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Board approves driveway-width variance at 72–74 Kinsley Street to ease tenant parking
Summary
The ZBA unanimously approved a variance to increase curb cut width on Wilder Street so tenants at 72–74 Kinsley Street can better access off‑street parking and reduce hazardous curb maneuvers.
The Zoning Board of Adjustment voted unanimously April 22 to grant a variance for 72–74 Kinsley Street that will allow an expanded curb cut and wider driveway on Wilder Street to improve tenant access.
Applicant Alexander Mallethorn sought relief from Land Use Code section 190‑16(e)(1) to increase an existing curb cut on Wilder Street by nine feet, creating a total curb width of 43 feet, 3 inches. The property is an owner-occupied four-unit building in the RB zone, Ward 6.
Mallethorn told the board the unpaved driveway has been in place for about a decade and the additional curb width is intended to stop tenants from driving over curbs and to reduce unsafe maneuvering. Tenant Jillian Fagan, who lives at 72B Kinsley Street, testified in support and described frequent “driveway Tetris” and a near‑accident when a vehicle “almost pulled her muffler off” while trying to cross the curb.
Board members cited safety and the character of the neighborhood in support. Member Josh Neely said approving the variance would “keep some cars off the street” and reduce safety concerns. The board noted similar wider driveways exist on nearby streets.
A motion to approve the variance, made by Josh Neely and seconded by JB Boucher, found the request would not be contrary to the public interest, would observe the spirit of the ordinance given unit count and parking demand, and would do substantial justice by improving tenant safety. The motion passed unanimously.
The approval is subject to the city’s 30‑day appeal period.
