Temple Israel of New Rochelle seeks approval for new swimming pool at Camp Pinebrook

The New Rochelle Planning Board convened on April 22, 2025, to discuss significant developments impacting the community, including a proposal from Temple Israel to enhance its Camp Pinebrook facilities. The meeting highlighted the board's commitment to addressing local needs while ensuring safety and compliance with regulations.

The most notable discussion centered around Temple Israel's application to replace an existing basketball court with a new swimming pool, wading pool, and pump house at 1000 Pinebrook Boulevard. This initiative aims to better serve the diverse age range of campers by providing deeper swimming options, with the new pool reaching depths of up to six feet. The project is designed to fit within the existing footprint of the basketball court, resulting in only a slight increase in impervious surface coverage.

Board members emphasized the importance of maintaining safety and accessibility during construction. Conditions for approval included ensuring that any damage to city property during construction is repaired, installing appropriate signage for traffic management, and maintaining visibility at exits to enhance safety for both pedestrians and vehicles. The applicant agreed to these conditions, demonstrating a collaborative approach to community planning.

In addition to the Temple Israel proposal, the board also addressed procedural matters, including the declaration of lead agency status and the approval of a negative declaration, which indicates that the project will not have significant adverse environmental impacts. These steps are crucial in moving forward with the site plan approval process.

The meeting concluded with a sense of progress as the board approved the site plan, reflecting a commitment to enhancing community facilities while considering the needs and safety of residents. As Temple Israel prepares to implement these changes, the community can look forward to improved recreational options that cater to a wider range of ages and activities.