SWAMPSCOTT – The Planning Board unanimously approved a request for a special permit to build a two-story addition to a residential building on Barnstable Street at its meeting Monday evening.
Local residents Emily and Matt Barron made their suggestion, arguing that the accommodation would benefit their young son, who is physically disabled.
Matt Barron described the potential space as 967 square feet, with an additional bedroom downstairs for his son so he doesn’t have to go up and down the stairs. He envisions the bedroom being large enough to accommodate necessary equipment like a wheelchair and walker. Another feature of the planned addition is a two-car garage.
“The addition itself is across our current driveway,” explained Matt Barron. “So we’re basically going to eliminate the driveway and build the garage instead.”
He added that the garage will include an area that he believes complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act, including a 5-foot clearance on one side of the garage and a ramp.
“We’re not really sure how growth will affect his mobility,” said Matt Barron.
Several neighbors supported the couple’s proposal. Board member Jer Jurma suggested not extending the garage to the street, as he believed this would allow the child more mobility.
“That would give you a little more roadway,” said Jurma. “I’m just thinking about how you’re going to go about trying to get these dimensions approved.”
Board member Angela Ippolito expressed her full support for the Barrons and their plan.
“Not only would I support you in getting that permit, but I would go to the planning committee meeting and advocate for you to get the spatial relief you need,” Ippolito said.
