Hyde Park ZBA grants setback variance for swimming pool at 6 Popping Lane; hospice hearing continued

The Hyde Park Zoning Board of Appeals on Jan. 28 approved an area variance that will allow a new private infinity pool to intrude into the stream-corridor setback at 6 Popping Lane.

The board read and adopted Resolution 2026-01Z, finding that the proposed 576-square-foot pool and related modifications would not produce an undesirable change in neighborhood character, are not expected to cause adverse environmental impacts under the board’s SEQRA finding, and that the requested reduced setback (80.1 feet where 100 feet is required) is feasible given existing site constraints. The motion to approve was unanimous by roll call.

Architect Benura, representing the applicants, told the board the pool will be located behind the garage “so they won’t see more than they already see” from the roadway and that the design uses stone cladding and an infinity edge to blend with the river-facing landscape. The board’s resolution notes the structure will be largely hidden from approach and that the requested intrusion is a small triangular corner of the previously developed area.

During earlier discussion the board confirmed public notice was published in the Pipsy Journal on Jan. 22, 2026, and staff reported no written objections. A neighboring homeowner had raised a privacy question that applicants said was resolved in direct outreach.

Separately, the board continued the public hearing on an unrelated hospice application after staff and the board said unresolved drainage issues remain; the hearing was continued to March 25, 2026.

The variance carries routine conditions: commencement within one year of issuance and payment of applicable fees and escrow. The board recorded a unanimous roll-call vote: Gregory Campus — yes; Scott Travis — yes; Miss Dailyaly — yes; Vice Chair Perkins — yes; Chair Bowen — yes.

What happens next: Applicants must comply with the conditions set in the resolution and obtain necessary building and site approvals before construction begins. The hospice applicant must return to the board on March 25 with drainage questions resolved.