Planning Commission approves 113 Pixley rear‑yard addition and variance despite neighborhood objections

The Planning Commission on May 31 approved a modest vertical addition at 113 Pixley Street and associated rear‑yard variance after an extended exchange between neighbors and the project sponsor.

Staff described the proposal as a small vertical enlargement (approximately four feet in added height) that can be accommodated by the building’s existing roof volume. Neighbors and a 26‑signatory group urged the commission to take discretionary review, lower the roofline by about 18 inches and require the stair to be located inside the building to avoid additional rear‑yard encroachment. Neighbors said the proposal would reduce light, air and privacy in a tightly articulated block and presented an alternative design that would avoid adding to the setback encroachment.

Project sponsors and supporters described outreach efforts, multiple revised designs and shadow studies. Sponsor representatives said the addition would allow a small bedroom and bathroom for a young family while keeping the building lower than adjacent neighbors and that they had reduced the massing and increased setbacks during the review process.

After staff and public testimony the commission voted to not take discretionary review and to approve the project as presented. The zoning administrator closed the public hearing on the variance and characterized the addition as minimal; the commission’s vote to approve the project was unanimous.

The project includes a condition that the zoning administrator will review details related to the stair and building massing during permit processing. Opponents said they will continue to press for lower rooflines and internal stair solutions through building permit review and future neighborhood engagement.