Board approves wider driveway approach at 452 S. 607th E. Ave. after applicants correct plan

The Board of Adjustment on May 27 approved a special exception allowing Michael and Belinda Lowery to extend and widen the driveway approach at 452 South 607th East Avenue to 44 feet 3 inches, both within the street setback and in the city right‑of‑way, after the applicants submitted a corrected plan.

The Lowerys told the board a previously submitted professional drawing misrepresented the right‑of‑way approach width; a subsequent field‑drawn plan clarified the intent to extend the widened driveway all the way to the street and to construct the approach so it includes the sidewalk section required by right‑of‑way standards. Staff explained that city driveway permits require sidewalks or an identified sidewalk section across a driveway approach so future sidewalk connections can be made without inconsistent slopes.

Board members said the driveway design, while unconventional in appearance, matched other driveways within a five‑block radius and was appropriate for the corner lot, which is the only house on that short street segment. The board approved the plan and the right‑of‑way approach with the understanding that the applicant must secure a right‑of‑way permit and that sidewalk cross‑slope and construction will be reviewed by right‑of‑way inspectors.

The Lowerys said they had already spent permit fees and partially poured work based on their earlier understanding; staff and board members reminded applicants that right‑of‑way construction requires a separate permit and that building and right‑of‑way inspections would follow the approval.