Somerville Zoning Board Discusses Easter Seals Group Home Expansion Proposal

Overview: The Somerville Zoning Board recently reviewed a application by Easter Seals to expand a group home to include two additional bedrooms and a handicap accessibility ramp. The application sparked a discussion on the facility’s operations, resident needs, and neighborhood impact.

Somerville Zoning Board Greenlights Downtown Revitalization Project

Overview: In an effort to revitalize the downtown district of Somerville, the Zoning Board of Adjustment approved a project on June 19, 2024, that will transform a vacant property at 35-37 North Bridge Street into a mixed-use building. The property, which has been unoccupied for approximately four years, is slated for renovation to include office space for a real estate development company on the ground floor and a two-bedroom apartment on the second floor.

Somerville Zoning Board Addresses Residential Expansion and Hospital’s HVAC Update

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Somerville Zoning Board tackled a variety of issues, the most significant of which involved a residential expansion proposal and updates on a local hospital’s plans to camouflage an HVAC unit. A motion to postpone reviewing resolutions was passed, potentially affecting the timing of funding and permits. The meeting also touched on a Memorial Day parade and proposed zoning ordinance changes.

Somerville Zoning Board Approves Historic Building’s Restaurant Renovation

Overview: The Somerville Zoning Board recently approved the renovation of a historic building for a new restaurant and bar, amidst discussions on a range of topics from parking spaces to the oversight of historic renovations. The high-end renovation project is set to include a mezzanine for additional dining, a centrally located bar, and jazz music performances. This decision came alongside the approval of another application seeking a parking space reduction for a residential property.

Somerville Zoning Board Approves Varied Development Proposals Amid Concerns

Overview: The Somerville Zoning Board meeting on March 20th, 2024, resulted in the approval of several development proposals, including the rehabilitation of properties to increase residential units, the introduction of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, and the amendment of existing plans to address community concerns about parking and flood mitigation. Notably, the board granted an extension for a building permit and variance for Mark Anderson of the Hillsboro’s Board of Adjustment, approved Habitat for Humanity’s request for a gravel driveway, and discussed the conversion of an office building into apartments with associated parking requirements.