Zoning panel approves adaptive reuse of Park Street School, removes 55+ restriction

The Bristol Zoning Commission on May 11 approved application 2558, a special permit to allow the adaptive reuse of the former Park Street School at 122 Park Street for 55 dwelling units and to remove a 55‑and‑over occupancy restriction.

Attorney James Iogus, representing the applicant, told the commission the property is in receivership and has had declining tenancy since its 2015 conversion and a subsequent 2016 elderly‑housing approval. Iogus said roughly 45 residents currently live in the building, “about half of them are 55 and over and half of them are not,” and that removing the age restriction would allow general rentals so the property can attract investors and remain viable.

Staff reported a unanimous positive referral from the Planning Commission (letter dated April 16) and presented site maps, an adaptive‑reuse square‑footage calculation and related materials. Resident Leonard Lamothe spoke in favor, saying the building is a neighborhood asset and urging the commission to approve the application.

Commissioner (S7) moved to approve application 2558 with three stipulations: the permit authorizes the adaptive reuse at assessor’s map 28, lot 44 for 55 dwelling units; the permit and any attached conditions run with the property; and the special permit shall not become effective until it is filed in the city land records in accordance with the Connecticut General Statutes. The motion was seconded and passed by roll call (all voting yes).

The commission did not require exterior changes or additional parking beyond what was presented; staff said the applicant provided documentation that the building’s square footage supports the 55 units under adaptive‑reuse rules. The approval requires the applicant to complete the recordation step before the permit becomes effective.

Next procedural step: the permit takes effect after filing in the city land records.