Lowell ZBA approves stacked‑parking variance for 75 Chapel St., adds signage and tree conditions
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Summary
The Zoning Board approved a variance allowing stacked parking to add two dwelling units at 75 Chapel St., conditioned on updated site plans showing parking dimensions, signage for one‑way flow and unit/visitor spaces, two shade trees and compliance with fire department sprinkler requirements.
The Lowell Zoning Board of Appeals voted Jan. 12 to grant a variance to permit stacked (back‑to‑back) parking at 75 Chapel St. so the owner may convert an existing four‑family building into six units by adding two attic apartments.
Engineer Carlos Ferreira (MP Design Consultants) said the project adds two units in the attic while keeping the building footprint; the stacked parking layout provides the required number of spaces on a constrained site. Board members pressed for dimensions and clarity about emergency egress and fire‑sprinkler requirements; Ferreira said parking dimensions are shown as 9 by 18.5 feet typical and that the plans would be updated for the planning board and building permit stage.
Members agreed to conditions: the applicant must submit updated site plans showing parking dimensions and stair/egress layouts, work with the Department of Planning and Development (DPD) on one‑way entrance/exit signage and unit/visitor parking signage, provide two shade trees, and comply with any fire department sprinkler requirements. Member McCarthy moved the approval with those conditions; the motion passed by roll call.
The board noted that stacked parking can reduce on‑street parking demand in tight neighborhoods but that enforcement and clear signage will be needed to avoid traffic conflicts. The applicant will provide revised plans for DPD and follow the planning board schedule.