Planning Board approves special permit for restaurant at 55 White Avenue

The East Longmeadow Planning Board on May 5 granted a special permit to convert 55 White Avenue into a restaurant, approving conditions intended to limit neighborhood impacts.

Applicant Robert Cicero and a representative identified as John from Levesque Associates told the board the proposal would not change the building footprint, would provide 10 on‑site parking spaces and include interior renovations only. Cicero said the business would operate from 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily and be closed on Tuesdays and that seating would not exceed 30.

The board attached several conditions to the approval, including the posted hours (10:30 a.m.–7 p.m., closed Tuesdays), a 30‑seat maximum, one‑way on‑site traffic with painted arrows and signage, screened trash receptacles, downcast and shielded exterior lighting to limit light spillage onto neighboring properties, a prohibition on on‑street customer parking, delivery and trash pickup restricted to between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., and one parking space designated for ride‑share deliveries.

During public comment, Kristine, a White Avenue resident, and Maria, an abutter, raised concerns about traffic flow, parking spillover and lighting. Kristine suggested routing vehicles to enter via Elm Street and exit onto White Avenue; Maria recommended additional screening and “no customer parking” signage to discourage use of neighborhood street parking.

The board approved the permit and conditions by unanimous vote, with motions and seconds recorded by members on the public record. No vote tallies indicated opposition or abstentions.

The permit includes ongoing compliance conditions requiring all necessary licenses to be obtained and kept current and a requirement that any change in ownership or change to the approved use must be filed as an amendment to the special permit. The board may review or modify the permit consistent with the Town of East Longmeadow Zoning By‑laws.