Development News for Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Warehouse Construction on Phineas Street Faces Variances for Use, Setback, and Disturbance

The Zoning Board of Adjustment reviewed a new construction project for a warehouse at 814 Phineas Street. The project involves variances for use (warehouse prohibited in H district), residential compatibility side setback (11.5 ft requested vs. 15 ft required), area of disturbance (79% requested vs. 50% allowed), and retaining wall height (13 ft requested vs. 10 ft allowed). The applicant, Phil Karanovich of Triad Engineering, representing the Education Partnership, explained the need for the warehouse to expand distribution of school supplies. A neighboring property owner, Ronald Bernacke, expressed concerns about the vacation of Aceway, which provides access to his property, fearing that trees and a proposed curb would impede his access. The applicant stated no trees would be planted in Aceway and the curb could be made mountable. The board acknowledged that street vacation issues are outside its purview but noted the concerns and will issue a decision.

Yoga Studio Proposed for Non-Conforming Use in Highland Park

The Zoning Board of Adjustment considered a special exception for 901 North St. Clair Street to change the non-conforming use from a grocery store to a yoga studio. The applicant, Kathy Lewis Long, proposed up to four classes daily, emphasizing a low-impact operation. The property is in Highland Park. Concerns about parking were addressed, with the applicant anticipating many clients would walk or use public transport, and noting ample street parking. The building was previously a grocery store and has been vacant for some time. Letters of support from the community were submitted. The board accepted exhibits and will issue a decision.

Kensington Street Residents Seek Variance for Front Yard Parking

The Zoning Board of Adjustment considered a variance request for 7534 Kensington Street to allow parking within a front yard, as front yard parking is prohibited. The applicants, Mr. Manning and Jessica Anna, stated there is no rear or side yard access, leaving only street parking. They noted their property is the only one on the block without dedicated off-street parking and presented a plan that shifts the sidewalk and retaining wall. They also provided AI-generated visualizations and mentioned that condos across the street have similar parking pads. The board requested supplemental photos of surrounding properties and will issue a decision.

Zoning Board Reviews Special Exception for Duplex Conversion on Josephine Street

The Zoning Board of Adjustment considered a special exception for a property at 2503 Josephine Street to change the non-conforming use from a single-unit residential to a two-unit residential. The applicant, Omar Jack, presented evidence of separate utilities and entrances, indicating the building's historical use as a duplex. The property is located in a UI district. A resident, Deborah Witt, raised concerns about furnace fumes venting onto her walkway, but this was noted as outside the zoning board's purview. The board accepted exhibits and will issue a decision.