ZBA to Decide on Variance Request for Historic Hudson Valley Railroad Bridge

The Town of Rhinebeck Planning Board meeting held on July 7, 2025, focused on the ongoing development of a garden scale railroad, particularly the proposed signature bridge as part of the Phase 4 East loop. Board members discussed the implications of the bridge's height and design, raising concerns about its impact on the historic landscape of the area.

A significant point of contention was the bridge's scale, which some members felt was inappropriate for the site, given its historical significance. One board member expressed that the bridge could intrude on the natural and rustic character of the landscape, which is known for its cultural importance in American landscape painting and architecture. The discussion highlighted the need for careful consideration of how new structures might affect the historic integrity of the site.

Visibility of the bridge from surrounding areas was also a topic of discussion. Board members reviewed renderings to assess how the bridge would appear from Ferncliff Drive and Teehaus Lane, noting that while it may not be prominently visible from the road, its presence would still be felt as one approaches the site.

Additionally, the board addressed the status of a variance request related to the bridge's height. The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) had closed their public hearing and was expected to make a decision on the variance by July 16, 2025. Positive feedback was anticipated, but the outcome remained uncertain.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for further comments and concerns from board members, emphasizing the ongoing dialogue about balancing development with preservation in this culturally significant area. The next steps will depend on the ZBA's decision, which will inform the planning board's future discussions on the project.