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Corner-lot Langlois family granted variances for modest second-story addition
Summary
The board approved variances allowing Alexander and Rebecca Langlois to add a second story to their corner lot home; the project keeps the existing nonconforming footprints and modifies the roof/overhang to create interior space while remaining under the height limit.
Alexander and Rebecca Langlois were granted zoning relief by the Morris Township Board of Adjustment on April 28 to construct a modest second-story addition on their corner property at 20 Albert Avenue.
The Langlois property is a corner lot with two front-yard setbacks; the proposed plan preserves the existing nonconforming footprint and seeks relief for front-yard setbacks on both Fanuc Road (proposed 46.8 feet where 50 feet is required) and Albert Avenue (proposed 32 feet where 50 feet is required). Architect Steven Majewski told the board the project increases interior living space primarily by raising the center portion of the house rather than expanding the footprint. "We're not increasing the building footprint except by a very little bit," Majewski said, describing a small rear overhang to square off a second-floor bedroom.
Majewski and owner Alex Langlois emphasized that the project is intended to keep the family in place — the homeowners said they need space for three children and prefer to remain in the neighborhood. The architect noted the property remains under the township's permitted height limit (projected maximum about 31 feet; 35 feet allowed) and that lot-coverage and building-coverage ratios remain within permitted ranges.
Board members noted the corner-lot constraints produce a narrow buildable envelope and that many surrounding houses have similar or smaller front setbacks. The application was approved; the board recorded a condition that the applicant submit the usual final survey/site-plan materials and zoning table updates so township staff can confirm the numbers and process any building permits.
The Langlois family may proceed after submitting the required site-plan revisions and coordinating any follow-up reviews with township planning, zoning and building departments.
