The Lowell Zoning Board of Appeals continued a highly contested application for 13 Whitney Ave. to Feb. 9, 2026, after hearing extensive public opposition and detailed board questioning about topography, drainage and tree impacts.

Engineer Ian Ainsley (ISOBRAM) proposed subdividing the parcel into three lots: Lot 1 would keep the existing three‑unit dwelling; Lot 2 would be a single‑family lot of about 3,200 sq. ft. (zoning requires 6,000 sq. ft.), and Lot 3 would be a two‑family lot requesting multiple variances for lot area per unit, usable open space and a half‑story allowance. Ainsley said grading, retaining walls and terracing would be needed to meet slope requirements and that pervious driveways and stormwater provisions are planned.

Many abutters (Ray Bellerose, Corey Robinson, Jerry Nutter, Connie Morton Eubank and others) described recurring flooding, a nearby natural spring and a prominent weeping hemlock at the property line that they said would be at risk from proposed retaining walls and excavation. Neighbors also argued that the application sought too many variances and appeared motivated by financial feasibility rather than an unavoidable hardship.

Board members questioned whether the hardship was self‑inflicted and expressed concerns about the absence of hydrology/soil testing, retaining‑wall design, sight‑distance triangles for new driveways and the scale of relief requested. Member McCarthy, Member Prokop and others said they could not support the plan as submitted; the applicant asked for more time to revise plans. The board voted unanimously to continue the matter to the Feb. 9, 2026 meeting to allow for staff reviews and revised engineering information.

The continuance preserves abutters’ opportunity to submit additional comments and requires the applicant to return with updated plans addressing stormwater, sight lines, retaining‑wall proposals and arborist analysis where trees are potentially affected.