Rev City Church seeks variance for 83 additional parking stalls in Lawrence

In a recent meeting of the Lawrence City Board of Zoning Appeals, discussions centered on the proposed expansion of the Rev City Church parking lot, highlighting the growing need for additional parking in the area. The church has been grappling with parking shortages, prompting a site plan that aims to increase parking capacity significantly.

The church currently has 229 parking stalls, which have proven insufficient for its congregation. The proposed site plan seeks to add 310 stalls, an increase of 83 spaces, to accommodate the growing number of visitors. This expansion is particularly crucial as churchgoers have been forced to park in unsafe areas, including along curbs and in neighboring residential zones, creating safety concerns.

The church's representatives emphasized that this situation is unique, as Rev City Church is a popular destination, and they are prepared to invest in the necessary infrastructure to support the expansion. The site plan includes careful considerations to minimize impact on surrounding residential areas, with new parking areas located away from homes and designed to incorporate landscaping that enhances the visual appeal of the property.

Despite the pressing need for additional parking, a variance request to exceed the city’s parking stall limits was denied by the planning director. The church's representatives expressed disappointment but remain hopeful that the Board of Zoning Appeals will recognize the unique circumstances surrounding their request.

The proposed plan also includes environmentally friendly features, such as a bioretention basin to manage stormwater runoff, which aligns with the city’s goals for improved water quality. The landscaping plan promises to enhance the area with new trees and shrubs, ensuring that the expansion does not lead to a stark concrete landscape.

As the meeting concluded, the board was urged to reconsider the variance request, which is seen as essential for the church's operations and the safety of its attendees. The outcome of this discussion could have significant implications for the church and the surrounding community, as it navigates the balance between development and neighborhood concerns.