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Board allows elevator installation at 29 Illinois Avenue, waiving side-yard requirement
Summary
The board granted Thomas Clark a variance to demolish a side stair and construct an exterior elevator at 29 Illinois Avenue, allowing a 0-foot side-yard condition where the existing stair already sits.
The Long Beach Zoning Board of Appeals voted to grant a variance to permit the demolition of an existing side stair and the construction of an exterior elevator at 29 Illinois Avenue.
Architect Joseph Gallinaro presented the application on behalf of the Clarks. He described the elevator as a response to aging in place: the Clarks sought to retain full access to a three-story home without losing internal living space. The architect said the proposed exterior elevator would be attached where an existing side stair currently sits and would not remove required egress: “Taking that staircase down will not be taking away any egress for the home,” Gallinaro said, noting other entry points and an interior stair remain.
Commissioners questioned alternative solutions including a ramp and the elevator’s emergency performance; Gallinaro said modern residential elevators include battery backup for at least two uses and that repairs would be conducted from inside the home. After discussion, a motion to grant the variance for a side-yard (0-foot) elevator was introduced and seconded and the board voted to grant the application.
The board’s approval is subject to normal building‑department permitting and inspections.
