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Manor Township board approves 1,142-sf ADU variance to allow future wheelchair accessibility
Summary
The Manor Township Zoning Hearing Board on April 1 approved a variance to raise the ADU size limit for 194 Ironstone Ridge Rd from 900 to 1,142 square feet to accommodate future ADA-accessible circulation; the motion passed unanimously after applicant testimony and neighbor support.
The Manor Township Zoning Hearing Board voted April 1 to grant a variance to Section 425-73.A of the zoning ordinance, allowing a 1,142-square-foot accessory dwelling unit (ADU) at 194 Ironstone Ridge Road, exceeding the 900-square-foot maximum.
Applicant Josh Wenzel, sworn for the hearing, said the ADU is intended for his parents and was designed for future wheelchair accessibility. He said the plan balances necessary living space with accessibility needs; John Wenzel testified he will occupy the unit. Designer Trevor Eby of Ironstone Homes LLC said the plan was reduced from an original 1,200-square-foot design to 1,142 square feet to accommodate 36-inch doorways and 48-inch circulation pathways in the kitchen; a 16-by-25 covered porch is not included in the square-foot calculation. A neighbor, Nancy Levasseur, testified in support. No public objections were recorded.
Solicitor Susan Peipher presided over the procedural reading; Zoning Officer Nate Taggart confirmed that the hearing was properly advertised and abutters notified. After a brief recess, Board member Jeff Klugh moved to close testimony and to approve the variance; Vice Chairman Mike DeBerdine seconded. Both motions carried unanimously.
The board recorded that the requested 1,142-square-foot area represents a roughly 27% increase over the 900-square-foot maximum referenced in Section 425-73.A. The record notes that ramping was not shown because the elevation change at the on-grade covered porch was minimal and the designer did not anticipate an elevator; the plan retains accessible circulation without an elevator. The board did not attach additional conditions beyond approval; the applicants must follow the normal permit and inspection process before occupancy.
