Owners of The Glenn in Bonduel say a gas line is blocking ADA ramp options, plan permit work

Owners of a planned bakery and café at 113 N. Cecil Street told the Village of Bonduel Plan Commission on June 2 that a gas line behind the building and State ADA requirements are preventing them from completing plans for an accessible entrance.

Nikki and Jeff Bougie, who bought the commercial building and plan to open The Glenn, said they had hoped to place an ADA ramp at the rear of the structure but were told by Zoning Administrator Jesse Rankin that the rear gas line left insufficient space: the ramp and its pylons require an 18-inch clear zone from the gas line. Rankin also said excavation of the front sidewalk was not viable because it would create an uneven surface and new obstacles that would not meet State requirements.

The issue has blocked final State approval of the Bougies' renovation plans. Commissioner Robbie Woldt III said the commission needed to see engineered drawings before endorsing a front-ramp option. Developer Chad Roffers suggested relocating the gas line, noting, "gas lines are moved every day," and the commission broadly agreed that moving the gas line and placing the ramp at the back of the building would be the most workable solution.

Rankin told the commission the village participates in the Connect Communities program and that staff would work with the Bougies to pursue a land use permit and any necessary relocation of the utility. There was no formal vote on the ADA access item; Rankin and the property owners agreed to prepare engineered plans and pursue State-approved documents and permits.

Next steps: Rankin and the Bougies will pursue a land use permit, consult on gas-line relocation options and return with engineered plans or other documentation needed for a formal Plan Commission determination.