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Historical commission approves demo-delay waiver for egress windows at 17 Jefferson Street
Summary
The Worcester Historical Commission voted to waive a demolition delay and allow three new basement egress windows at 17 Jefferson Street after applicants and the commission said the house has been heavily altered and the windows will match existing vinyl. A resident raised concerns about historic appearance during public comment.
The Worcester Historical Commission on Sept. 18 approved a demolition-delay waiver for work at 17 Jefferson Street that will enlarge three basement openings to install egress windows.
The commission’s finding states the change "would not be detrimental to the historical or architectural resources of the city of Worcester." Chair Diane Long called for the vote after staff and the applicant described the work as needed for safety and code compliance.
Applicant Yasmeen said the project is to add three egress windows to bedrooms in the basement and to complete electrical upgrades required by the city inspector. Homeowner Abner confirmed the windows will meet egress-size requirements under the International code and that the project will use materials requested by the inspector. The homeowners said they intend to match the rest of the house, which currently has vinyl replacement windows.
A public commenter, Vijay Singh, said he was concerned that larger egress openings would change the historic appearance of the house. Commissioners responded that the house has already been significantly altered (vinyl windows and siding) and that code-required egress is a priority in this case.
The commission approved the waiver by roll-call vote with all commissioners present voting yes. The approval was conditioned on the applicant submitting final window specifications and obtaining any required building-inspector approvals before installation.
The applicant will upload detailed materials to the city permitting system for staff review; the commission noted that if materially different window designs are proposed later, the applicant may need to return for design approval.
