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Ballston hears developer interest in Kelley Farms land as officials flag $10M water tower and $4.6M bike-path grant plan
Summary
Officials discussed a developer’s possible donation of Kelley Farms land tied to a proposed $10 million water tower and fire substation, a 44-unit proposal on Eastline Road that would need a water extension, and plans to apply for a $4.6 million bike-path grant with a roughly $900,000 local match.
Town officials on Feb. 24 described renewed developer interest in land near Kelley Farms and outlined infrastructure and funding questions if the property is developed.
Comptroller David Urkevich said the developer previously proposed donating land intended for a new water tower and a fire substation. Urkevich said an estimated water tower would cost about $10 million and that the Town’s water plan already includes about $20 million in upgrades. The Consolidated Water District has roughly $4 million available, he said. "There are already $20 million in water system upgrades in the water plan that is needed," Urkevich said, and the $10 million tower would be an additional major cost.
Planning Board Chair John Van Vorst said a proposal for 44 housing units on Eastline Road would require a Town water extension, which could increase demand and affect pressure. Board members discussed alternatives including replacing water mains to increase flow, constructing a tower, or pursuing an intermunicipal agreement to share a tower with neighboring Malta and Clifton Park.
Supervisor John Antoski said the developer might still donate some land to the fire department even if a full tower is not feasible. The Board did not take action but asked for input from the Water Superintendent and further information for the March agenda.
Separately, the Board discussed advancing a grant application to extend the Town bike path to Zepko Lane. Comptroller Urkevich estimated the project at about $4.6 million, with a 20% local match of just over $900,000; the Town would pay upfront and seek reimbursement if the grant is awarded, and construction is not expected to begin until 2027. Antoski said multiple support letters have been received and a resolution to authorize the grant application will appear on a future agenda.
Public commenters raised safety and communication concerns. Kathy Wilcox criticized the bike-path survey and map as inadequate, warned that Brookline Road crossings are unsafe, and asked about the status of a Dog Control Officer and use of the town Facebook page for updates. "The survey didn’t mention the cost... The safety factor really should be considered," Wilcox said.
