Stewart’s redevelopment on South Broadway advances in design review process; board leaves public hearing open

Representatives for Stewart’s presented a consolidated redevelopment of 177 South Broadway and 28 Lincoln that would retain the pump islands while relocating the store, consolidate parcels and improve pedestrian and truck circulation. The applicant noted that because pumps remain in place, minimum-build-out metrics are effectively 0% and that multiple dimensional variances are required. Planning board provided a generally favorable advisory opinion subject to the Design Review Board’s design authority.

Board members and neighbors highlighted truck circulation, facade treatment on Lincoln, and the need to keep truck deliveries routed to South Broadway. Several neighbors voiced conditional support for the project as an improvement over existing conditions and indicated they will engage during site-plan review. The board kept the public hearing open and directed the applicant to continue design review with DRB and planning staff before the ZBA issues final variances.

Why the project matters The Stewart’s site is a longstanding nonconforming gas station; the proposed redevelopment would alter circulation patterns, change the Lincoln-facing streetscape and require substantial dimensional relief. Because the project sits at the intersection of neighborhood and commercial uses, DRB and planning input will shape final design and conditions tied to any zoning relief.