Board approves Riverside Drive variance with condition for 20-foot geotechnical borings

The Edgewater Planning & Zoning Board on May 13 approved a variance (VA2609) permitting construction of a single-family residence at 603 North Riverside Drive with an allowed building height of 35 feet (revised from an initial 42-foot request), a 7.5-foot side-yard setback, and a 35-foot front-yard setback, subject to a geotechnical condition.

Why it matters: Neighbors and board members raised concerns about the lot’s wetlands, narrow configuration and the potential effects of backfilling on adjacent properties. The board added a construction condition to require a geotechnical boring program of at least 20 feet to verify suitable foundation design before issuance of building permits.

Staff summarized the variance request and noted the applicant had revised plans to cap the height at 35 feet after staff highlighted charter restrictions. The applicant’s representatives and consultants said the site will require retaining walls and localized fill and that pier footings are expected. Neighbors questioned the extent of fill, drainage impacts, and how the foundation would be designed to avoid adverse effects; the applicant cited a civil engineer’s letter stating there would be no adverse impact to neighbors.

Board action: After discussion — including a motion to approve VA2609 "as written with the condition that the applicant at time of construction provides a geotechnical report no less than 20 feet boring" — the board voted 4–3 in favor of approval.

What to expect next: The variance was approved by the board and will allow the applicant to pursue building permits, conditional on the required geotechnical report and standard permitting reviews. The condition is intended to ensure foundation design and site stabilization measures are informed by subsurface data before construction begins.