Rhinebeck Village Council approves Taste of Rhinebeck street closure application

The Village of Rhinebeck Board of Trustees made significant strides in planning for the upcoming "Taste of Rhinebeck" event during their meeting on March 11, 2025. The board approved an application from the Rhinebeck Area Chamber of Commerce to change the traditional setup of the event, which is scheduled for May 7. This year, they plan to close East Market Street from The Light to Samuels to enhance safety and create a more festive atmosphere for the expected 600 attendees.

Trustees emphasized the importance of this change, noting that it would improve safety by reducing pedestrian traffic across the street as attendees move between restaurants. The board also discussed the benefits of partnering with the Chamber of Commerce for the event, as this collaboration would allow them to file a necessary Department of Transportation (DOT) application on behalf of the Chamber, potentially lowering costs associated with the event.

Three conditions were set for the approval: finalizing logistics with the police department, ensuring public works can provide garbage containers, and obtaining the DOT permit. The board expressed a commitment to ensuring that the event runs smoothly, with a focus on maintaining clear sidewalks and managing vendor setups effectively.

In addition to the event planning, the meeting highlighted ongoing community initiatives, including a push for an organics management plan and updates on the village's compost program, which has seen participation from over 50 households. The board also acknowledged the Village of Rhinebeck's recent recognition as the New York Planning Federation's "Comp Plan of the Year," with an award ceremony scheduled for April 7.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's proactive approach to community events and environmental initiatives, setting the stage for a vibrant spring in Rhinebeck.