Planning Board approves three cottage‑style homes at 42 Line Street after neighbor revisions

The Quincy Planning Board voted April 16 to approve site plan review and a parking‑waiver special permit for a three‑home development at 42 Line Street after the applicant revised elevations, grading and stormwater plans following neighbor feedback.

Architect Brian Donahue described revisions that reduced ridge heights by roughly eight feet, reconfigured floor plans to move main living areas to the first floor and converted taller three‑story designs to one‑and‑a‑half‑story cottages with two‑car garages and private yards. The changes were made in response to resident concerns about building height, privacy and tree preservation.

Civil engineer Jim Burke said the design now uses walk‑out basements and minimized excavation so that a previously proposed rear retaining wall is no longer required. The design required modest additions to the stormwater controls; peer‑review comments were addressed and the Department of Public Works reviewed the revised stormwater and utility work.

Several neighbors who attended said the revisions addressed their concerns. Ron Petinelli, who lives nearby, thanked the applicant and cited concern about large oak trees and potential root impacts; the applicant agreed to work with neighbors and inspectors on tree protection. Councilor Devine and neighbors also praised the outreach and said the updated plan fit the neighborhood better.

The Planning Department recommended approval subject to standard conditions including a construction‑management plan, soil testing and stormwater operation and maintenance requirements. The board approved the site plan review and parking‑waiver permit by voice vote.