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ZBA approves variances for mikvah and cultural center at synagogue site with shared-parking condition
Summary
Oak Park's Zoning Board approved setbacks, impervious-surface, parking and lighting waivers for a proposed mikvah and library associated with an adjoining synagogue, conditioned on a written shared-parking agreement and limits tying approval to the proposed use.
The Oak Park Zoning Board of Appeals approved multiple waivers for a proposed mikvah and cultural center to be associated with the adjoining synagogue, subject to a written shared-parking agreement and a restriction that the approval applies only to the mikvah/library use.
Architect Mark Althouse told the board the team seeks a minor setback waiver to allow the building at 47 feet from the residential district (50 feet required under Article 5, Division 3, Section 544.G), an impervious-surface waiver to allow 74.4% (the ordinance limit is 70% under Article 2, Division 2, Section 215.G), a parking waiver to permit six on-site spaces instead of the 30 spaces listed for a full cultural center under Article 4, Division 1, Section 403, and a lighting-intensity waiver to allow wall-mounted light to reach 3.7 foot-candles on the east property line (the ordinance limit is 1.0 foot-candle under Article 4, Division 5, Section 494).
Althouse explained the proposal envisions shared use of synagogue parking, a drive connection between lots, and a pedestrian opening in an existing screen wall so users can walk directly between the synagogue and the mikvah/library. Responding to a board concern about light spillover, Althouse said the nonconforming lighting would be on the synagogue side and "there's no light spilling on the residential property," adding that lighting on the north (residential) side meets ordinance requirements.
The motion to approve included two conditions: execution and continued validity of a written shared-parking agreement specifying days and hours of operation so mikvah/library use does not overlap peak synagogue activities or increase overall parking demand, and a restriction that the approval is granted solely for the proposed mikvah/library associated with the synagogue and that any future construction or change of use will require compliance with zoning rules.
The board recorded members voting in favor by roll call and the motion carried. The approval allows the project team to finalize plans and proceed with requirements set by the conditions, including city review of any changes to the parking agreement or operating schedule.
