BOA_23 Andrew Street - Revised Statement of Hardship-11_18_201) Although narrow lots in Salem and in this neighborhood are not unusual, at thirty -nine
feet in width it is one of the narrower lots in the area. When combined with a three -
family dwelling, it makes for limited options for proper and safely designed means o f
egress. The rear stairway and only bathroom on each level share a very narrow section
of the home. The stairway opening is 24.5” (see pics) and narrows to 18.5” around each
corner.
Because of the shape of the lot, and the long narrow design of the home, the only
location for a properly designed stairway would be directly adjacent to the existing stair,
on the exterior wall. This combined with the deck for access would provide for a safe
and legal means of egress for all three units.
2) Without receiving relief from this ordinance, a substantial safety hazard could and
would not be rectified. A stairway that presently does not accommodate people of all
shapes and sizes, and certainly would not allow for first responders to navigate with or
wearing any type of equipment or gear. This is and will remain a tremendous hazard to
anyone living in this dwelling, without the ability to relocate the stairway to the exterior.
3) The proposed decks and stairways were designed to enhance the structure while
bringing it into accordance with the safety standards required under the present
building code. The structure proposed falls within the side and rear setbacks, thereby
conforming with present building codes as well. As designed this addition adds value to
the property, augments the look and functionality, as well as the neighborhood,
because each home on this street is complemented by the care and considerate work of
their neighbors.
We have been renovating this home since purchasing last December from the basement
to the roof. All of our neighbors have been very supportive and appreciative of the fact
we took a long neglected, absentee landlord home and made it our home. We have had
nothing but support for this project, and hopefully you will see that too.