Public hearing remains open on detached garage at 722 N. Broadway after neighbors raise access and tree concerns

The Zoning Board of Appeals on Jan. 12 heard from owner Robert Klein and neighbors about a proposed detached garage at 722 N. Broadway that would shift toward the south property line to widen an existing driveway.

Klein said the historic garage previously occupied a similar corner of the lot and that plans moved the garage toward the south property line to allow a workable driveway without removing a tree. Board members probed driveway width, circulation and whether alternatives had been considered. Stephen Harrigan and other members asked for exact curb-cut dimensions and whether a wider curb cut would trigger a separate variance. Susan Barden, senior planner, told the board the city would need to confirm maximum driveway frontage and curb-cut rules with city staff.

Neighbor Tim Schervatskoy asked whether the proposal showed a three-car garage and whether a 15-foot driveway with overhangs would provide safe passage for a fire truck. He also asked that the city arborist review any plan that would remove a tree. Robert Klein said the proposal is for a one-car garage and that he does not plan to remove the tree.

The board left the public hearing open and instructed staff to confirm curb-cut width, driveway percentage limits and whether additional variances are required; the ZBA also scheduled continued consideration at its next meeting. No vote was taken on the application during the Jan. 12 meeting.

What’s next: Staff will check curb-cut and driveway rules and report back; the hearing remains open.