HLRB approves rear‑yard pool with glass safety enclosure at 38 Cortland Avenue

The Historic Landmark Review Board of New Rochelle approved a certificate of appropriateness on Feb. 11 for a rear‑yard swimming pool, spa and pool terrace at 38 Cortland Avenue, with a see‑through glass safety fence and related patio work.

The application, listed in the record as by Carlos Sosa Straver, was presented by Carlos Jose Treven, who described a rear‑yard pool connected to the house by a new door and surrounded by a glass fence and paver patio. "This is the swimming pool. We will have a round, fan glass fence, paver patio," Treven said, and clarified that the glass fencing is four feet high with gates and is intended to be visually unobtrusive.

Staff and board members noted that most work is not visible from the street because of topography and dense vegetation, but they brought the item forward because fencing is within the HLRB's purview. The board asked for clarification on visibility; Treven pointed to site photos and said vegetation and grade limit what can be seen from the public way.

Neighbors spoke at the hearing. Barry Neetschus of 247 5th Avenue said he was not opposed to the pool but raised concerns about summertime noise and wildlife, telling the board, "On Saturday, there were 12 deer hanging out right where that pool is going," and asking the city to consider wildlife management. Another resident questioned the pool setback; Treven confirmed the pool sits about 20 feet from the property line.

A motion to approve the application "as presented" was made and seconded; the board voted in favor and the chair announced, "Application is approved." The record does not include a detailed roll‑call tally by name.

Next steps: the applicant may proceed with building‑department permitting subject to any separate zoning or building requirements and with the understanding that screening, noise and other privacy matters may involve additional building or zoning review.