Zoning board approves variances for Delaware Avenue entertainment complex

The Zoning Board of Adjustment has approved a series of variances for the Canal Street North entertainment complex, a multi-property concert venue, restaurant, honky-tonk bar, and bowling alley opposite Sugarhouse Casino on Delaware Avenue.

The ZBA’s approval of each appeal came with a proviso that the applicant “show evidence that they shall show approval and evidence to secure at least 500 parking spaces,” according to a board administrator. The Planning Commission, which approved a Plan of Development for the project last fall, made the same stipulation.

The board ruled on four total appeals at different addresses: 33-51 Laurel Street, 29-45 Poplar Street, 1106-28 Delaware Ave., and 1000 Frankford Avenue.thon

Attorney Anthony Forte said that his client, developer Michael Samschick, currently has control of 326 parking spaces on four separate sites. He is working with the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation to gain access to an additional 174 spaces on a nearby lot currently owned by PennDOT. Forte said he wasn’t sure when that approval would come, but the developer will not be able to pull permits for the project until it shows the zoning board it has the full 500 parking spots. 

Paul Boni, attorney for a small group of near-neighbors who oppose the project, was not immediately available for comment. 

PlanPhilly will update this story as more details are available.