After years of planning and neighborhood anticipation, Saint Paul's Board of Zoning Appeals has signed off on a key variance that clears the path for new restrooms and a universally accessible playground at Victoria Park. The move lets the city tuck the new facilities farther back from Stewart Avenue so they fit neatly into the park's driveway and parking layout.
Board Signs Off On Setback Variance
According to MyVillager, the Board of Zoning Appeals voted on Jan. 5 to allow construction of the restroom building and accessible play area at Victoria Park. No one showed up at the hearing to speak for or against the request, and the West Seventh/Fort Road Federation declined to offer a recommendation, the outlet reported. The approval lets Parks & Recreation go beyond the city's usual 10-foot front-yard setback at the site.
What The New Playground Will Offer
Saint Paul Parks & Recreation says the play area is being designed to exceed basic accessibility standards. Plans call for a single gated entrance with two fully accessible restrooms right at the gate. The project page also highlights accessible parking, shade, benches and river views. Permitting and procurement are scheduled for this winter, with construction planned for spring through fall 2026.
How Far Back The Restrooms Will Sit
Parks staff asked the board to approve a far deeper front-yard setback than normal, roughly 181.77 feet, so the building can sit near the park turnaround and work with the existing circulation pattern, according to agenda coverage published earlier this month. Local outlet Hoodline first flagged the variance in the board's pre-meeting notice.
Why The City Says The Variance Is Needed
City staff told MyVillager the variance is necessary because of the site's Traditional Neighborhood 3 zoning. They said the way the driveway, turnaround and parking are laid out leaves little room to meet the standard setback and still keep the restrooms next to the future play area where families will actually be spending time.
Appeal Options And What Happens Next
Under city rules, decisions by the Board of Zoning Appeals can be appealed to the City Council within 10 days, and variances usually expire if a permit is not secured within the allowed timeframe. Saint Paul's zoning office lays out the appeals process and filing deadlines. Parks staff list Brett Hussong as the project manager and say bidding and contracting are set for this winter ahead of construction next season.
Once finished, the Victoria Park playground and restrooms will give the West Seventh neighborhood its first play space intentionally designed for children of all abilities and their caregivers. The project has been part of the Victoria Park master plan since 2013 and has been inching through design and funding steps in recent years, finally edging toward reality.
