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Somerset residents protest four‑lot subdivision; planning board keeps hearing open
Summary
Residents on Somerset Road objected to a four‑lot Towns & Estates proposal that would place two houses visible from their cul‑de‑sac; the board asked for fuller wetland delineation and adjourned the hearing to Feb. 17, 2026 to collect more data and driveway/screening options.
Neighbors on Somerset Road told the East Fishkill Planning Board on Jan. 20 that a four‑lot subdivision proposed off Towns and Somerset Roads would intrude on a quiet cul‑de‑sac, reduce privacy and add traffic where children play.
Applicant team members presented a four‑lot concept showing two lots accessed from Towns Road and two smaller lots served from a shared apron at the end of Somerset. Planning staff noted the DEC had signed off on the front wetland flagging but had not verified the rear portion of the parcel; staff recommended including the entire site in the lot‑count calculation to avoid undercounting regulated wetlands.
Multiple Somerset residents said they had not received direct notice, described the street as a 23‑home cul‑de‑sac with many young children, and asked whether two new driveways adjacent to existing homes could be relocated or screened. Resident Dave Bolt said the neighborhood values the dead‑end character and tree buffer and that two houses would materially change the street. Vivian Morales, who lives at the cul‑de‑sac, said: “Having two driveways right next to my house, it’s very impactful to me and my family.”
The applicant and staff clarified there is no through connection between Somerset and Towns Road through the new lots and that the proposed Somerset houses would sit at a lower elevation than the cul‑de‑sac (wetlands and topography limit deeper site intrusion). Staff asked the applicant to respond to driveway placement and provide a revised lot‑count that treats the rear wetland area conservatively for the next hearing.
The board agreed to keep the public hearing open and to reconvene on Feb. 17, 2026 so neighbors and the applicant can have clearer plans for driveways, screening and any required wetland delineation. Residents were told they may submit written comments to planning staff if they cannot attend the next meeting.
