Agency refers David Howard storage project; members flag stream rerouting, ingress and sight‑line concerns

The agency reviewed part one of a two‑part referral for a proposed self‑storage development at 1082 Dix Avenue (applicant: David Howard). The application seeks area relief from setback requirements to construct nine self‑storage buildings totaling about 40,525 square feet on a 4.2‑acre parcel and proposes gated access, a new ingreso/egress curve, two internal hydrants and conversion of an existing swale to storm sewer.

Planning staff described a proposed 51‑foot setback for the closest building (building D) and noted about 456 linear feet of swale to be converted to storm sewer, as well as a plan to reroute a stream via underground piping to a rear discharge. Board members asked whether the feature is a year‑round stream, whether the site lies in a designated 100‑year floodplain, and whether state DEC or soil‑and‑water authorities had been consulted. Staff said DEC and soil‑and‑water comments were not on file and that DEC hazard maps had been checked with no obvious listings for laundry‑related contamination at the site.

Members expressed concern that rerouting flows and converting natural swales could materially change on‑site hydrology and recommended that the applicant coordinate with soil and water and provide clear floodplain and wetland jurisdiction documentation under new state wetland rules enacted in January 2025. One member emphasized the importance of sight lines and ingress capacity for emergency access if gated entry narrows through traffic.

The agency moved to refer the variance and site plan as a matter of local concern with a recommendation for soil‑and‑water consultation and additional construction documents; the motion was seconded and approved with no recorded opposition. Staff was asked to request clarity on floodplain status, wetland determinations and DEC referrals where applicable.