Video: 244-246R Hanover St. & 20 Parmenter St. presentation, discussion and NEWRA vote on April 11, 2013
The North End / Waterfront Residents’ Association (NEWRA) voted 10-16 in opposition of a proposed new residential development at 244-246R Hanover Street and 20 Parmenter Street. The request seeks zoning relief for the purpose of converting commercial/retail spaces to residential use and increase the number of units from a total of 15 to 28 units. All 28 units will be one bedroom rental apartments. At 244-246R Hanover Street, an increase in height is requested to 55 feet. A similar request was approved in 2002 but never built.
In response to neighborhood feedback, the proponent presented three alternate designs for the front and side of the buildings. There were still several questions and regarding the property design especially relating to the windows. The applicant said the Boston Redevelopment Authority is leaning toward a more modern frontage with large windows.
Sometimes referrred to as the “Hanover Hole” the location is next to Fiore Restaurant in the space formerly occupied by the VFW Post. The side facing Fiore Restaurant remains a point of contention as the restaurant owner does not want windows on that side of the new property to interfere with the operation of the eatery and associated roof deck. In addition, the Fiore property may also be raised higher in the future.
The issue of cars entering / exiting the Hanover St. underground garage was also discussed. Both properties will be managed as part of the same development with 25 parking spaces in an underground garage. A common trash room is included in the design with plastic trash barrels. There is no roof deck as part of the proposal.
The second part of the development is called “Teatro” at 20 Parmenter Street in the space formerly occupied by the North End Union. The Teatro part of the project is largely completed with an entrance on Parmenter Street. The request there is to change the retail use to residential because the owner does not believe that ground floor commercial use is practical at the Parmenter Street location.
The Neighborhood Council (NEWNC) previously voted in favor of the development proposal. Both neighborhood groups are advisory to the Boston Zoning Board of Appeal. A hearing is scheduled for May 21, 2013 at City Hall.
Watch the video for the full presentation, discussion and NEWRA vote.
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