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Zoning board denies parking variance for triangular lot at 1211 Prospect Street
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Summary
The Board of Zoning Appeals rejected a request to allow three parking spaces and an oversized driveway at 1211 Prospect Street, citing fairness, lack of demonstrated necessity and neighborhood context; the motion failed 2–3.
The Board of Zoning Appeals denied a request to permit three parking spaces and a widened driveway at 1211 Prospect Street, voting 2–3 to refuse the variance.
The motion, read by Committee member De Vardy, would have granted variances from multiple provisions of the Unified Development Code to allow front-yard parking, permit a driveway that does not lead to a garage or conforming parking structure, and authorize a one-way driveway 29 feet wide where 15 feet is normally permitted. De Vardy argued the lot’s triangular shape and long-standing on-street parking created an “exceptional and peculiar” condition and said approving the variance would deliver “substantial justice” to tenants who have relied on parking in that area.
Opponents on the board emphasized the neighborhood context and alternatives to additional on-site parking. One member said cars are “one of the most expensive things we have and for students it is free to ride the bus,” arguing that lack of parking is an inconvenience but not an exceptional hardship. Another member, describing their student experience, said taxis or long bus commutes were not realistic for low-income students but still said they would not support the variance. The board discussed that while two vehicles could be parked without encroaching on the setback, the proposal for three spaces and a 29-foot driveway went beyond what the majority found acceptable.
The roll-call recorded votes by name as announced during the meeting: Julie — no; Christina — no; De Vardy — yes; Patty — yes; Dharma — no. With two votes in favor and three opposed, the motion was denied.
The chair opened the public-comment period; staff reported no callers. The board then moved to adjourn after briefly checking for reports from counsel.
What happened next: The variance request was denied; there was no public comment and the meeting adjourned. If the applicant seeks further review or a revised application, that would be reflected in future board agendas.
