The City of Bradford Zoning Board approved a variance for the construction of a Community Center at 5 Campus Drive during a meeting Monday.

The Community Center will be 45 feet by 32 feet and will be used by residents of South Center Street and Brookline Court. The construction is part of a larger project that involves installation of new roofs, siding, gutters, downspouts and porches, according to the architect for the project.

Vice Chairman Tom Bowes noted that the board had questions regarding the proposed location of the center, particularly in relation to the parking lot. However, those questions were answered by drawings provided.

The proposed construction location provides for the existing offices as well as the new facility.

The board approved the variance by special acceptance, which was required for the construction to move forward.

The board adjourned the meeting, then reconvened to discuss the matter of a garage located at 34 Rochester St., owned by Steven Pascarella. According to Pascarella, the garage has been used as a cold storage facility for the majority of the time he has owned it, a span of roughly 30 years. The residence that formerly stood on the property has recently been demolished. Previously, it was a rental.

Pascarella noted that the garage has a new tin roof and vinyl siding and does not pose a problem for neighbors on the street. Because Pascarella’s residence is located across the street, he can not combine the properties. However, he would prefer to be allowed to keep the garage as is, despite zoning that prohibits a garage being the primary structure on a property that is zoned residential.

Board members noted the garage seems to add to, rather than detract from neighboring properties. They also stated that the size of the property does not allow for new construction of a residence. A variance was approved for the garage to be left standing.

Pascarella discussed the possibility of adding a garden to the property as well, rather than leaving it a mowed lot.