Neighbors raise safety concerns as Pittsfield board rejects proposed parking layout for group home at 24 Ann Drive

The Pittsfield Community Development Board on Jan. 20 approved recognition of 24 Ann Drive as a group home but rejected the applicant’s proposed permanent parking layout after neighbors described hazardous sightlines and congestion.

Architect George Dole of Jones Whitsett Architects presented existing and temporary winter parking plans for Clinical & Support Options, which is seeking recognition of the property as a group home under the Dover Amendment. City planner Kevin Rayner and board members confirmed the Dover Amendment applies to the site’s educational use, which limits some zoning review.

Neighbors said the parking pattern — which often places vehicles in the driveway and on Ann Drive near the Alfred Drive intersection — has created visibility and safety problems. Brenda Kelly, a resident of 39 Ann Drive, asked whether the city had approved a change of use and said residents had not been informed of the change. Mark and Kathleen Amusso of 147 Alfred Drive said parked cars block drivers’ sightlines toward Alfred Drive, creating a hazard for people turning off Ann Drive. Resident James Conant told the board he opposed the plans and described the proposal as a commercial development in a residential area.

The applicant showed a proposed permanent layout that would add six 45‑degree angled spaces and the possibility of two additional middle spaces behind the building to reduce curb parking. Dole said the proposed layout would make it safer for staff to arrive and depart. Board members, including Chair Sheila Irvin and member Matthew Herzberg, said they were not convinced the proposed configuration improved safety. FitzGerald reported that when she visited the site she observed seven or eight cars parked in the driveway, contributing to congestion.

After discussion, the board approved the site plan with the existing conditions and expressly rejected the proposed parking configuration. The motion passed unanimously by roll call. The board did not direct staff to return with an alternative parking plan during the meeting.

The board’s decision recognizes the site as a group home for the educational use presented and leaves on‑street parking and driveway conditions largely as they exist. The applicant and neighbors were advised that any change in use or new construction would remain subject to federal, state and local regulations. No further hearings on this item were scheduled at the Jan. 20 meeting.