Council discusses visual impact studies for solar project near Millburn Road

The April 9, 2025, meeting of the Goshen Environmental Review Board (ERB) focused on the visual impact assessment for a proposed solar farm in the area. The discussion began with concerns regarding the visual impact of the solar installation, particularly how it would affect nearby residents. Board members noted that the previous visual impact study did not account for trees, which could obscure views.

Members identified specific locations from which to conduct visual assessments, including Moonlight Trail, Millburn Road, and Northgate. They emphasized the importance of selecting vantage points that would accurately reflect the potential glare and visibility of the solar farm from residential areas. The board discussed the need to gather visual data from these locations to ensure that the project would not adversely affect the surrounding community.

The conversation also included a review of nearby properties, with members listing addresses adjacent to the proposed site. They expressed concerns about how the solar farm might impact the views from these homes, particularly those on Millburn and Northgate. The board agreed to compile a list of addresses for further evaluation and to request visual assessments from the identified locations.

As the meeting progressed, the board shifted focus to the next steps in the review process. They discussed the importance of timely assessments and aimed to finalize their requests for visual studies by the following week. Additionally, the board addressed the need for a scoping document from the town board regarding the project, which would outline the necessary steps for environmental review.

In conclusion, the ERB meeting highlighted the board's commitment to ensuring that the solar farm project is evaluated thoroughly, with particular attention to its visual impact on the community. The board plans to continue its discussions and gather necessary data to inform their recommendations moving forward.