Large mixed‑use proposal near train station sparks questions on tree loss, fill and connectivity

The Planning Board heard a comprehensive briefing on a large mixed‑use proposal near the train station and Route 29. Applicant Jamie Easton outlined a plan with two H‑shaped multifamily buildings (about 344 units), a 110‑room hotel and 46 rowhouses, plus a boulevard, multiuse path and new public‑facing park space.

Easton told the board that because the site has a shallow seasonal high groundwater table, DEC stormwater requirements for infiltration basins and pipe cover force substantial roadway raising and imported fill; that engineering response, he said, would require removing a large share of on‑site trees to meet road grade and stormwater infiltration standards. He presented options to save additional trees by changing park locations, moving surface stormwater features underground or narrowing some amenities, but said many trees will be lost to construct the required road profiles and basins.

Board members and staff flagged Complete Streets/DPW comments about parking stall widths and mid‑block pedestrian crossings, questioned the project’s pedestrian and bicycle connections to the train station and nearby commercial areas, and asked the applicant’s traffic consultant to respond to a focused list of connectivity questions before the board moves forward with SEQRA Part 2. The board did not take a final SEQRA action at the meeting and requested more detailed traffic and stormwater confirmation in writing.