Zoning Board of Appeals 07/20/2026

The City of Worcester Zoning Board of Appeals held a hybrid meeting on July 20, 2026, addressing multiple zoning and variance requests primarily related to residential and commercial development projects. Key procurement-related discussions included approvals of variances and special permits for various properties to support housing developments, parking modifications, and business operations such as a used car dealership. Notable projects included a 24-unit multifamily development at 256 Sunderland Road, a 32-unit affordable housing conversion at 1 Jackson Street, and a 74-unit mixed-use development at 27 and 35 Chandler Street and 47 through 53 Irving Street. The board also considered a request to convert a static billboard to digital at 692 Milbury Street, which was continued for further environmental and safety review. Several motions were passed approving variances and special permits with conditions, waivers, or continuances as appropriate. The board emphasized compliance with updated state zoning laws effective July 1, 2026, particularly regarding variance conditions. Extension requests for previously granted permits were also approved. Overall, the meeting focused on facilitating housing production, commercial use modifications, and infrastructure improvements while balancing community and environmental concerns.