Group of Southie Neighbors Sue to Block Development on E Street

Universal Hub is reporting that six South Boston residents are suing to block the development of a four-story, 24-unit building at 363 E Street.  The lawsuit was filed in Suffolk Superior Court, the residents said there were no “special circumstances or conditions” to warrant variances related to the project’s height, insufficient open space, rear yard setback, number of parking spaces, and overall density on the site.   The suit is asking a judge to “annul” the board’s approval.

Backstory:

Back in November, the Zoning Board of Appeal voted to approve plans by David Winick and David Matteo of Cedarwood Development to demolish the building once occupied by St. Vinny’s Parish – the former rectory. There is also a separate plan to develop the old church across the street too.

The developer’s attorney stated the variances were needed because neighbors had asked for things that required them like lack of open space for residents after the developers agreed to eliminate a roof deck and balconies for units.

The BPDA and BPD both said 24 parking spaces were acceptable for a building of that size. City Councilor Ed Flynn’s office showed support for the project and said that providing 24 parking spaces would help with the “South Boston parking crisis.”

The Saint Vincent’s Lower End Neighborhood Association also supported the project.

You can learn more about this case here including the recording of the hearing back in November!