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Commission approves shower‑control variance for Sojourn Hotel’s accessible room
Summary
The commission approved a request allowing shower controls to be located 22–27 inches from the sidewall (with a fold‑down seat) rather than centered at 30 inches, saying the proposed placement improves reach for seated users; the vote passed unanimously.
The Northampton Disabilities Commission voted unanimously to approve a variance requested by the Sojourn Hotel renovation to locate shower controls on the long wall within 22–27 inches of the sidewall, paired with a foldable seat, rather than the 30‑inch centered location the code ordinarily requires.
Commission members said the proposed control placement is easier to reach from a seated position. One commissioner said the design “seems fine to me” and that putting the controls closer to where someone might sit would “ensure ease to reach them from the seat for people with significant mobility challenges.” The commission moved, seconded and recorded a unanimous approval of the 44.60.2.e shower‑control variance.
The applicant’s package also noted the renovation exceeds 30% of the building’s assessed value and includes two accessible guest suites (above the 5% minimum). The commission recorded this vote separately from two other Sojourn Hotel requests still under deliberation.
