On February 12, the Zoning Board of Manchester will hold a public hearing to discuss several housing proposals that could significantly impact the local community. The meeting is scheduled for 18:00 and will be broadcast live on Manchester Public Television, Channel 22. For those unable to attend, the agenda is available online for public review.
Key Proposals Under Review
The first case, identified as ZBA2025-168, involves a proposal for a three-family dwelling at 373 Bartlett Street. The applicant seeks to convert an existing structure into a new dwelling unit despite the lot’s buildable area of only 5,000 square feet, where 10,000 square feet is typically required. Additional variances are requested for lot frontage, side yard setbacks, and parking layout, highlighting the challenges of urban housing development.
Another significant case, ZBA2025-175, pertains to 806-814 Elm Street. The applicant aims to modify a previous condition that restricts the installation of a 300 square foot wall sign, allowing for an electronic message center unrelated to the building’s tenants. This proposal raises considerations about the aesthetic and functional implications of electronic signage in the Central Business District.
ZBA2025-172 concerns a new three-family dwelling at 503 Hanover Street. The applicant is requesting variances for minimum buildable lot area and setbacks, intending to construct egress stairs and maintain a parking area without the required landscape buffer. This case exemplifies the ongoing demand for residential units in areas where space is limited.
Additionally, the Zoning Board will review ZBA2026-001 regarding a proposed shed dormer at 747 Beech Street, where the applicant seeks to increase the floor area ratio and adjust side yard setbacks. This proposal reflects the ongoing trend of maximizing residential space within existing structures.
Future Housing Developments
The agenda also includes a notable proposal under ZBA2026-003 for a planned development at 185 Woodland Avenue and Crystal Street. This ambitious plan outlines the construction of five six-unit townhouse dwellings and two eight-unit townhouse dwellings, totaling 46 units. The applicant requests several variances, including adjustments for lot frontage, building height, and setbacks, which raises questions about the project’s alignment with the city’s zoning regulations.
Another case, ZBA2026-005, involves a transformation of commercial space into residential units at 251 Pine Street. The proposal seeks to create three new dwelling units on the first floor, resulting in a total of 12 units on a lot that falls short of the required buildable area. This reflects the ongoing shift towards mixed-use developments in urban centers.
The board will also consider ZBA2026-006 at 84 Healion Street, where the applicant is seeking to maintain two sheds closer to the rear lot line than zoning permits. Finally, ZBA2026-007 requests variances for a new single-family dwelling at 250 Dunbar Street, which would have a front yard setback of only five feet, well below the required 20 feet.
The Planning Board met on February 5; however, no cases were decided at that time. Both the Planning Board and Zoning Board discussions reflect the city’s ongoing efforts to balance development with zoning laws, community interests, and housing needs.
Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to participate in the upcoming meeting to voice their opinions on these proposals, which could shape the future of Manchester’s housing landscape.
