Concerns over pedestrian accessibility and urban design dominated the recent Planning Board meeting in Glens Falls, where local resident Gary McCullough voiced strong objections to a proposed development project. McCullough, who lives directly across from the site, criticized the design for lacking essential features that promote a walkable environment.

During the meeting, McCullough highlighted that the project’s parking lot design fails to incorporate necessary landscape buffers, which are present in other city developments. He argued that the absence of green space adjacent to the building creates an uninviting atmosphere for pedestrians, forcing them to navigate around fences and driveways rather than enjoying a direct path to the entrance.

"The building has no front door," McCullough stated, emphasizing that the design requires pedestrians to walk through a parking lot to access the building's entrance, which is situated beneath the structure. He described the layout as "very strange" and inappropriate for a downtown area aiming to encourage foot traffic.

Additionally, McCullough pointed out that the building's design, which features multiple facades and is elevated on piers, does not align with the aesthetic of the surrounding urban environment. He expressed concern that the project appears overbuilt for the site and lacks amenities that would benefit both residents and visitors.

The Planning Board is expected to consider these concerns as they move forward with the application process, highlighting the ongoing dialogue about urban planning and community needs in Glens Falls.