Board grants parking variance at 67 Jones Avenue; applicant required to apply to city parking authority

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved a variance for a multi‑unit rental at 67 Jones Avenue that would reduce the property’s required off‑street parking by three spaces. The applicant sought relief because the existing structure has only one functional off‑street parking space. Staff noted the property is in an R‑3 multifamily district and that current calculations require four spaces for the three units; the applicant is providing one.

Applicant representative (identified in the record as "Joe," 67 Jones Avenue) told the board the structure historically included the units and that a basement unit had been added with separate access. Board members and staff reviewed an aerial and site photos; staff said the existing driveway depth is barely adequate for a single car and the width and neighboring rights-of-way limit the ability to expand on‑site parking.

After discussion about congested street parking on Jones Avenue and the limited ability to add off‑street spaces, the board approved the variance subject to the planning division’s standard conditions and an additional condition that the applicant apply to the City of Morgantown Parking Authority for a blue‑space (permit) allocation. The board noted that approval does not guarantee a blue‑space allocation; it only requires that the applicant make the application.

Planning staff will send the applicant a written action letter within seven to ten business days; staff reminded the applicant that work done during the 30‑day appeal period is at the applicant’s financial risk.