Board denies second‑driveway variance; engineering outlines path to preserve construction staging

The City Board of Zoning Appeals denied a homeowner’s request to retain a second driveway on a collector road, finding the application did not demonstrate the hardship required for relief.

Applicant Mary Carter said she added a second driveway because Woodlawn Pike is heavily trafficked and backing into the road is dangerous; the new driveway provides safer loading and access for her family. Engineering staff advised the board that Woodlawn Pike is a collector roadway and the zoning ordinance generally does not allow backing into a collector. Staff noted the newer driveway’s branch area provides room to turn, but the existence of two full driveways on a collector is not ordinarily permitted.

Board members discussed alternatives, including removing or partially abandoning the older driveway and noted the applicant could retain the second driveway temporarily for construction staging if the building plans include a demolition note that the older driveway will be removed at project completion. The board moved to deny the variance for lack of hardship.

Board staff said the homeowner may show on building plans that the existing driveway will be demolished at completion of construction; such a note typically satisfies the city’s need to see an abandonment plan while allowing temporary construction access.