Commission approves Rice Boulevard canopy and staircase variance over neighbor objections

The commission considered a variance that would allow stairs and a canopy to encroach to a 0-foot building line along Rice Boulevard so that a stair and covered entry could face the public sidewalk. Opponents, including nearby business owners and property representatives, said the building and proposed canopy impair sign visibility, create pedestrian-traffic conflicts, and that earlier surveys and litigation raised concerns about property lines. Guy Stretfield, owner of a neighboring store, said the project had reduced visibility to his business and raised safety and access concerns.

Resident and frequent speaker Joe Fisher asked the commission to deny the variance, arguing the applicant ‘‘has not demonstrated the criteria required for the commission to grant the variance.’’ Commissioners debated whether the variance improved the public realm: Commissioner Baldwin said the canopy and stairs would provide pedestrian shade and better sidewalk access. After questions and testimony, the commission voted to approve the requested variance for the stairs and canopy with staff-recommended conditions.