Saratoga Springs Design Review Board approves demolition for 19 George Street project

In the heart of Saratoga Springs, the Design Review Commission convened on June 11, 2025, to deliberate on a contentious proposal that has stirred significant community interest. The meeting, held in the city hall, was marked by a blend of architectural scrutiny and passionate public commentary, as residents voiced their concerns over a proposed three-story building at the intersection of Park Place and Cottage Street.

The commission's primary focus was the compatibility of the new construction with the historic character of the neighborhood. One member emphasized the importance of adhering to historic guidelines, acknowledging the thoughtful design presented by the applicant but noting that it currently fell short of meeting these standards. “Our job is to make sure that what's being done there meets historic guidelines and standards,” the member stated, urging the applicant to consider adjustments that would align the project with the neighborhood's aesthetic.

The proposal, which includes the demolition of an existing structure deemed not historically significant, has faced scrutiny from local residents. Many expressed concerns about the building's mass and scale, arguing that it would disrupt the neighborhood's character. “This is a huge difference in size,” remarked one resident, highlighting the stark contrast between the proposed building and the smaller homes that surround it. Another resident lamented the loss of green space, recalling fond memories of the area as a neighborhood playground.

As the discussion unfolded, the applicant presented modifications made in response to previous feedback, including changes to window configurations and the addition of staircases to enhance the building's visual appeal. Despite these efforts, several commission members remained skeptical about the project's fit within the community. “I don’t feel it’s compatible with this neighborhood,” one member concluded, reflecting the sentiments of many residents who attended the meeting.

Public comments were overwhelmingly critical, with residents raising issues about potential traffic congestion, parking challenges, and the overall impact on the neighborhood's tranquility. “This is too big,” one resident asserted, emphasizing the need for a development that respects the scale of existing homes.

In a surprising turn, after hearing the community's feedback, some commission members began to reconsider their initial support for the project. “I think this part is not compatible,” one member admitted, suggesting that a smaller, more contextually appropriate design might be necessary.

As the meeting concluded, the commission decided to keep the application moving forward while continuing to engage with the applicant and the community. The outcome remains uncertain, but the voices of Saratoga Springs residents have made it clear: they are deeply invested in preserving the character of their neighborhood, and they will continue to advocate for a development that aligns with their vision for the future.