Woburn ZBA grants Monroe family special‑permit for addition with single‑family condition (4–1)

The Woburn Zoning Board of Appeals granted Daniel and Aleksandra Monroe a special permit to build an addition on their single‑family home at 35 Hiawatha Road, voting 4–1 to approve the project with the board’s standard restriction that the addition remain part of a single‑family dwelling and not be used as a separate rental unit.

The chair and the building commissioner expressed concern that the proposed layout — which includes an entry foyer and an opening between the existing house and the new addition — could be interpreted in some circumstances as separate living quarters. The board noted that its standard condition, which requires the structure to remain single‑family in use and permits city inspection, addresses that risk and preserves the R1 zoning intent.

Daniel Monroe and his wife said the addition is intended to create living space for family members; Monroe explained the interior wall and door to the foyer will be opened to create a direct connection and a roughly 6‑foot opening between the existing house and the new addition. Neighbor Tom Brady of 33 Hiawatha Road spoke in support of the project, saying the addition is consistent with neighborhood character and endorsing the standard condition.

The board instructed staff to prepare a written decision to be filed with the city clerk; a 20‑day appeal period applies before building permits may be issued.