Columbus BZA denies maneuvering variance for automated parking structure at 1011 S. Sullivan amid neighborhood opposition

The Columbus Board of Zoning Appeals on March 25 denied a maneuvering variance sought for an automated parking structure proposed at 1011 South Sullivan Avenue, a decision that followed lengthy testimony from neighbors and applicants and months of prior review.

The applicant, represented in part by Rob Ellis, sought a single maneuvering variance that would allow an automated, stack-based parking system to serve a proposed off‑site hotel. Ellis argued the variance was necessary because site constraints and the automated system design eliminate conventional drive lanes and that the parcel otherwise could not be used for the intended parking structure.

Neighbors urged denial. Jack Chambers, who said he lives between the proposed garage and the hotel, told the board the structure would be 20–30 feet…