Zoning board approves conversion of 535 Broadway to two-unit home despite parking questions

The Scranton Zoning Hearing Board on April 1 unanimously approved an application to convert a large former bar at 535 Broadway into a two-unit dwelling, finding two-family use is permitted in the R-10 zone and that the proposed renovation improves a long-vacant structure.

Applicant Luis Gutama said he purchased the building and seeks to create two units, one per floor, and described modest household parking needs: "I request for 2 families now," he said through limited English, adding he expects roughly one car per family. A committee member who grew up in the neighborhood described the building as an "architectural" structure that has had framing and permit work done and said the renovation "looks quite standard up to code."

Board discussion centered on parking: while the conversion itself is an allowed use, the structure historically had little or no off-street parking. Staff and members agreed the building could likely fit six parking spaces and noted the conversion would reduce previous restaurant or bar parking pressure. The board asked how many vehicles residents would have and emphasized sidewalk safety and line-of-sight concerns for any driveway use.

After questions, a motion to approve the two-unit conversion was moved and seconded and passed 4 with no dissents. "By a vote of 4 0, you've been approved," the chair told the applicant. The board did not add conditions beyond the usual permit and inspection requirements but emphasized that parking and code compliance will be enforced during permitting and occupancy inspections.

The applicant thanked the board and members wished him luck with the project.