Zoning Board of Appeals — May 28, 2026
The meeting featured significant debate over urban density and parking infrastructure, resulting in a split vote on a major development project.
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At the May 28th Zoning Board of Appeals meeting, a major decision was made that could significantly impact parking in the Woolley Street area.
The Board approved a variance for 71 Woolley Street, LLC to convert a historic mill into a 30-unit residential complex. Crucially, the developer was granted relief to provide only 31 parking spaces, despite city requirements calling for 60. This leaves a nearly 30-space deficit that will likely impact street parking for existing residents.
The decision was not unanimous. Member Hovey voted against the variance, expressing direct concern that the parking shortage would cause overflow into the surrounding neighborhood. The majority of the Board opted to approve the project, instead requiring the developer to submit a 'Transportation Demand Management Plan' for approval by a transportation engineer.
This project moves to the Planning Board on June 15th for special permits and site plan approval. If you live near Woolley Street, you should consider attending to voice your concerns regarding neighborhood density and infrastructure.
Public impact
Reduction of required parking by nearly 50% (from 60 to 31 spaces) for a 30-unit complex.
The variance was approved with the condition that a Transportation Demand Management Plan be provided and approved by a transportation engineer.
The applicant must present to the Planning Board on June 15th for special permits and site plan approval.
Topics discussed
A petition by Three Bridge Development, Inc. to split an existing lot and construct a new single-family home, requiring a variance for exceeding the maximum front yard setback.
The variance was approved subject to several conditions including Planning Board requirements, Engineering Department requirements, and a new condition limiting exposed foundation walls.
A petition by 71 Woolley Street, LLC to convert a historic mill building into a 30-unit residential complex, requiring relief for lot area per dwelling unit and off-street parking.
The variance was approved with the condition that the applicant provide a Transportation Demand Management Plan subject to the transportation engineer's approval.
The applicant must present to the Planning Board on June 15th for special permits and site plan approval.
The board reviewed and voted on the approval of the minutes from the previous meeting held on May 11, 2026.
The minutes were approved unanimously.
Controversy & dissent
Potentially controversial issues
71 Woolley Street Residential Conversion
14 Jeanne D'Arc Street Lot Split
Split votes
Community vs. board tension
Public comment
Decisions logged
Action items
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grok-4.3, gemma-4-26b, grok-4.20-0309-reasoning · analyzed 2026-06-07.
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