Wabash zoning board approves special exception for 35‑unit East Market Street apartments

The Wabash Board of Zoning Appeals on Sept. 14 approved a special exception and a demolition variance for a proposed three‑story, 35‑unit apartment building at 53 and 87 East Market Street in the historic downtown district. The board voted 4‑0 to grant the special exception allowing apartments in the downtown district and then voted 4‑0 on a related variance permitting demolition of the existing vacant building on the site.

Applicant Joe Wolske, representing Partnership for Affordable Housing, told the board the project would replace the vacant Family Video site with a building intended to reflect the character of historic downtown and to be financially viable as a three‑story walk‑up. "We're here to request a variance for, as they mentioned, apartments on the 1st Floor along East Market Street," Wolske said during his presentation. He said the development would include 35 units, with on‑site parking of 12 spaces and plans to negotiate shared parking agreements with adjacent Rock City Lofts and use nearby public lots.

Board members pressed the applicant on parking and first‑floor apartment policy in the commercial downtown. Staff member Doug explained the ordinance and precedent, noting the board has allowed first‑floor apartments in neighboring Rock City Lofts after mitigation such as window film or blinds. The applicant provided an internal unit breakdown (26 one‑bedroom, six two‑bedroom and three studio units) and said building height was limited by cost and parking considerations.

During public comment, resident Theresa Ponce raised parking and accessibility concerns: "There is no place downtown to park," she said, urging the board to consider impacts on handicapped visitors and businesses that rely on street and lot parking. After discussion the board proceeded to vote; staff announced the special exception and the demolition variance as approved by 4‑0 tallies.

The decisions allow the applicant to move forward with final design and any necessary building permits; the board noted that ballots used to record members' findings are retained as public records for those who seek to inspect individual votes.