Developer wanted to build three additional townhouses after discovering concrete bunkers during construction of as-of-right development. 25 Garfield Sparta LLC applied to BSA for a variance to build three townhouses on a through-block lot at 580 Carroll Street in Park Slope, Brooklyn. In 2007, the developer obtained permits to build an Enrique Norten-designed five-story condominium at the site that would front Garfield Place, provide open space along Carroll Street, and include nine underground parking spaces.

During construction, Garfield Sparta discovered below-grade concrete bunkers on the Carroll Street-side of the lot that were related to the site’s former use as a Brooklyn Edison substation. In order to compensate for the costs associated with removing the bunkers, the developer proposed building three four-story townhouses on the portion of the lot set aside for open space. Garfield Sparta needed a variance because the proposal exceeded the maximum floor area, maximum lot coverage, and violated minimum rear-yard depth. (read more…)