Zoning board approves corrected as‑built plan for 166‑168 John Street with minimal setback relief

The Princeton Zoning Board of Adjustment on April 22 approved an amended final site plan and modest variances for 166‑168 John Street after the applicant disclosed minor as‑built deviations from prior approvals.

Attorney Christopher DeGrezia told the board the project originally gained adaptive‑reuse approval in 2020 and that an as‑built survey showed one corner of a newer building lies about 4 inches within the required 25‑foot rear setback. The encroachment resulted from the building face not running perfectly parallel to the property line and from an architectural facade element that was measured differently in field surveys than in the original plan.

Planner Robert Benedetto presented the as‑built exhibits and photos showing the narrow projection, which the applicant described as an architectural feature intended to break up a long facade. Neighbors and the zoning officer questioned whether parking configuration or other site features had changed; the applicant said parking remained consistent with the approved plan and that no additional encroachments were evident.

Board members said the deviation appeared to be an honest measurement error and asked the applicant to update drawings to more clearly show the extent of the projection. After discussion the board moved to approve the amended site plan and variance, and the roll‑call vote carried.

The applicant will submit corrected final plans showing the full facade projection and any plan corrections required before monumenting and recording the subdivision or related deeds.