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ZBA grants temporary driveway variance at 115 Westwood Drive for accessibility
Summary
The Nashua ZBA unanimously approved a temporary driveway variance for 115 Westwood Drive to provide accessible entry for a resident with ALS, adding a condition that the variance expires when the accommodation is no longer needed.
The Nashua Zoning Board of Adjustment on Nov. 12 unanimously approved a variance to allow a temporary 16‑foot driveway and expanded driveway width at 115 Westwood Drive to accommodate a resident with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
Owner and applicant Robert Izel told the board that the house’s topography and a 14‑step back entry made a compliant ramp infeasible and that the driveway is intended as a temporary, accessibility accommodation. "We're looking to install a 16 foot wide driveway...it would enable me to get in and out of my house easier," Izel said.
Board members discussed alternatives, including a rear ramp, but staff and members noted that the RSA provisions allow accommodations for disabled persons and that a condition can limit the variance to the period the accommodation is needed. Several members (including JP Boucher, Josh Neely and Andrew Sylvia) favored approval after hearing that the steep lot and slope would make a compliant ramp impractical.
Andrew Sylvia moved to grant the variances for the driveway location and width and proposed the condition that the variances expire when the occupants no longer need the accommodation; the motion was seconded and the board voted unanimously in favor.
The board recorded that the driveway must comply with sightline and drainage requirements and that the variance carries the usual 30‑day appeal window.
