ZONING BYLAW AMENDMENT/RESIDENTIAL USES IN BUSINESS DISTRICTS

To see if the Town will vote to amend the zoning bylaw to alter the use categories of a residential single-family home, duplex, or two family home in any of the Business Districts; or take any action related thereto.

Inserted at the request of the Redevelopment Board

This article supports preservation of Arlington’s existing commercial property by disallowingn development of single- and two-family houses in business districts, while still allowing for development of mixed-use projects and multi-family homes.

One- and two-family dwellings can continue to be used and are not required to be converted to any other use. They will be considered nonconforming uses, of which there are many in Arlington.

The Redevelopment Board voted 4-0 to recommend Favorable Action.

Amend SECTIONS 5.5.1 and 5.5.3:
Section 5.5.1. Districts and Purposes

A. B1: Neighborhood Office District. In the Neighborhood Office District, the predominant uses include one- and two-three-family dwellings, houses with offices on the ground floor, or office structures which are in keeping with the scale of adjacent houses. Primarily located on or adjacent to Massachusetts Avenue, this district is intended to encourage preservation of small-scale structures to provide contrast and set off the higher-density, more active areas along the Avenue. Mixed-use buildings without retail space are allowed in this district. The Town discourages uses that would detract from the desired low level of activity, consume large amounts of land, or otherwise interfere with the intent of this Bylaw.

Section 5.5.3. Use Regulations for Business Districts

ARB Report

Amendment by Chris Loreti, Precinct 7