Commission permits radon‑mitigation pipe at 415 West Moseley with paint condition

The Ann Arbor Historic District Commission on July 9 approved installation of a radon mitigation system at 415 West Moseley Street, conditioned on painting the exterior pipe to minimize visual impact.

Planning staff explained the building is a contributing property and that mechanical equipment is typically located where it is not visible from the street; however, in this case staff said the proposed west‑elevation location is the only feasible routing that meets building‑code distance requirements from the basement origin. Staff included a condition in the motion requiring the pipe be painted to blend with the house.

The project drew comments from homeowner and neighbor Maya Feinberg, who said the property backs up to a steep hill and that typical parked cars and existing landscaping would largely obscure the pipe from pedestrian views. “It’s just it keeps the gas as far away from actual habitability as possible,” she said, and added that the site’s terrain and basement layout make alternative routings difficult.

Commissioners acknowledged the visibility concern but accepted staff’s explanation that alternative routings would be either infeasible or more intrusive. Commissioner Carter moved to approve the certificate of appropriateness on the condition that the system be painted to blend with the historic building; the motion was seconded and passed by voice vote.

Staff and the applicant should ensure the final installation follows the condition to reduce visual impact and that any required building‑department approvals are obtained.