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Planning commission recommends rezoning for Edgewood Road synagogue site
Summary
The commission unanimously recommended that city council rezone three Edgewood Road parcels to U5, a step the applicants say allows the congregation to build a residential‑character synagogue with concealed off‑street parking and 24 spaces that meet U5 requirements.
The Beachwood Planning and Zoning Commission voted May 28 to recommend that City Council rezone three parcels on Edgewood Road from U1 single‑family residential to U5 public and institutional use, clearing a key procedural step for a congregation seeking to relocate and expand.
Attorney Aaron Evanchek, representing the congregation, told the commission the group has worked with the city for years and recently acquired a third lot to create a consolidated site of about 20,400 square feet and roughly 170 feet of frontage, exceeding the revised U5 code minimum of 18,000 square feet. "We have worked hard with the city for 3 years," Evanchek said, adding that the plan includes 24 parking spaces and a design that will preserve a residential character.
Congregation member Akiva Shaw described the congregation as "small, young and vibrant," provided attendance estimates (10–20 adults for weekday services, roughly 50 adults and 10 children for Sabbath services) and said the group submitted a petition of support with 173 signatories representing 930 household members.
City planner Smarrigan recommended the commission provide a positive recommendation back to council, noting the conceptual plans show the site can meet required setbacks, parking and other U5 standards. "The three lots contain a total of 20,400 square feet and have a combined frontage of a 170 feet on Edgewood Road," Smarrigan said, and the commission will see final site plans if council approves the rezoning.
Commissioners asked about maximum capacity and parking concealment; applicants said building code will set occupant loads and they intend to screen and landscape the property to hide off‑street parking from the street.
The commission's unanimous recommendation advances the application to city council; if council approves the rezoning the applicant will return to the commission for lot consolidation and site plan approvals.
