The Norwich Commission on the City Plan on Nov. 18 approved a special permit allowing an owner‑occupied bed‑and‑breakfast at 100 West Dame Street.

Architect Jason Pitts, project manager for Capital Studio Architects, told the commission the applicant, Andrew Bowie, has submitted revised drawings and a narrative responding to staff memos and is roughly “50% through the drawings for renovations.” Pitts said safety upgrades will include a full sprinkler and fire‑alarm system and that “the stairs can be removed,” adding the design provides accessible egress from sleeping areas.

Staff confirmed the applicant has uploaded responses to the August and Nov. 14 review memos and said items 1–14 were addressed; staff asked that the conditions listed in item 14 be included if the commission makes a favorable motion. The architect described site improvements including on‑site parking (10 spaces), a trash enclosure behind the garage and landscaping and signage to meet zoning standards.

During public comment Kevin Brown, president of North Community Development Corporation, said he supported the application as a way to expand visitor lodging. No members of the public spoke in opposition.

Commissioner Kathy Wazeka moved approval with the conditions in staff memos; Ella Miles seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

The approval is subject to the conditions described in the staff memo (including completion of any outstanding mailings and final stamped plans), review by the building department and fire marshal, and receipt of building permits prior to the start of construction. The applicant will return to submit final permitting documents as required by the city.

The commission also waived reading the exhibit list that staff had placed in the record.