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Neighbors urge scrutiny of 43 North proposal to convert St. Thomas school into apartments
Summary
A neighbor told the board that developer 43 North seeks to convert the former St. Thomas the Apostle School into apartments and commercial space, and warned a right-of-first-refusal could lead to additional parish property sales; she urged the town to consider long-term neighborhood impacts and precedents.
Denise Flanigan, a nearby resident, told the Irondequoit Town Board on Feb. 17 that she and neighbors are concerned about a proposal from developer 43 North to convert the former St. Thomas the Apostle School at 41 Co Drive into apartments and commercial space.
Flanigan said the developer previously discussed pursuing a use variance or zoning change and that the developer holds a right of first refusal on some parish property, which could allow the company to acquire additional parcels if the parish sells. "Don't the town boards wish to know what 43 North's long-term plans are for that entire property?" she asked the board.
She cited multiple examples around the country where churches or school properties were converted to apartments or restaurants and argued that approving the school conversion could set a local precedent. Flanigan also said another school, St. John, had expressed interest in the site but found 43 North's proposed rent prohibitive.
Why it matters: The redevelopment could change land use, parking and neighborhood character near St. Paul and Cobrook, and a right of first refusal could concentrate future property transfers with the same developer.
Next steps: Flanigan asked the town to consider the long-term implications and to ensure neighbors and the public are informed as the developer's proposals advance. The board did not take formal action on the project at the meeting.
