Compliance with construction codes for both the Cities of Somerville and Medford are key components of plans for the future of the site at 483 Broadway. — Photos by Bobbie Toner

By Kyle Dante

A recent community Zoom meeting, sponsored by Ward 5 City Councilor Beatriz Gómez Mouakad, took place on Tuesday, March 29 regarding the relocation of Woody’s Liquors to 483 Broadway.

Owner John Wood is working alongside RISE Architecture on the move. Wood, along with Nath lia Quirino and Tavis Babbitt, were present. It allowed the public to ask questions about the design and its incoming process.

Currently, the addition of Woody’s Liquors has reached step two of an eleven-step site approval plan. It is in the process of defining the approval plan and updating it. It is the first of several incoming meetings in 2022 on the construction proposal.

Located near the Mid-Rise zoning district 4 (MR4), the location faces a two-story addition to another building. Babbitt seeks height variances based on the story specifications in MR4 for the Cities of Somerville and Medford.

According to the plans, MR4 allows three to four stories height in their construction. The proposal plan forces Babbitt to make accommodations that fulfill Somerville and Medford.

The plan aims to do two things: The reconstructed lot has 76% of land connected to Medford. Therefore, the location is both in Somerville and Medford. As for the Somerville legalities, it involves 723 square feet. As far as the height is concerned, it must be 14 feet tall.

The current situation in Somerville is creating complications. The lot currently has a first-floor height of 9 to 10 feet. Increasing the building height will create financial and construction problems, not only creating an increase in the construction budget but causing additional demolition. The demolition could force a reapplication with the Board. According to Wood, the decision-making process will run for four to five months.

There are a few factors impacting the plan. These depend on compliance with Somerville and Medford regulations. In addition to the boundary line, Medford issues different types of construction permits compared to Somerville’s. It is two-storied for Medford versus the three, potentially four, stories for Somerville. Concerning the construction, two stories will not be an issue. At the moment, Somerville is not using its entire lot. It remains unused and in disrepair, as well as lacking parking capabilities.

Thankfully, when the construction begins, it will not be a detriment. The community will be allowed to give feedback in upcoming meetings. It is in blueprint form right now. As the year progresses, construction is expected to begin.

Those who are concerned with the project can participate in any upcoming neighborhood meetings regarding 483 Broadway. The decisions made can potentially impact the process and what will ultimately replace the set-to-be demolished building.