Parkgate residents urge board to keep north entrance closed as Sacred Foundation seeks modification

Counsel for Sacred Foundation asked the zoning board to amend a condition of a prior approval that required permanent closure of an ingress/egress point onto Parkgate Drive for the tenant at 3880 Park Avenue.

Attorney Bob Smith said the condition effectively prevents the tenant from obtaining a building permit because the landlord will not agree to close the gate and there are recorded agreements limiting closure. Smith proposed replacement language that would prohibit congregants and invitees from using Parkgate Drive, require signage and internal controls, and include a six-month compliance review. "All such persons shall only utilize the Southern Driveway connecting directly to Park Avenue for all vehicular ingress and egress," Smith read to the board as the proposed condition.

Parkgate residents and counsel strongly objected. Damon Kress, representing the Parkgate Condominium Association, said the condition was imposed to preserve safety and the association opposes any modification. Several residents recounted near-misses and argued the record contains no material change warranting removal of the closure condition. Given the volume of public comment and the board27s desire for full membership, the hearing was carried to August 25, 2026.