Joseph Knight proposes elevated staircase to give stream access with minimal disturbance

Joseph Knight, the applicant for a sketch‑plan review, told the Woodstock Planning Board on June 18 that his client needs direct access to the Stockill Stream and is proposing an elevated staircase to reduce bank disturbance. He said the design uses only two primary footings with the stair treads supported on floating stringers and that no heavy machinery will be used during construction. "My client has asked to have access to stream walk around a lot recently," Knight said, and added he has obtained a state stream‑disturbance permit for the work.

The plan is intended to limit disturbance to the stream bank by elevating the structure rather than cutting stone steps into the slope. Knight said an Army Corps/engineer review concluded no local permit beyond the state stream permit was needed. Board members pressed for confirmation of permits and clarified that a building permit will still be required for the structure itself.

Planning staff told the applicant the board can prepare a resolution for the July 2 meeting and that, if the town approves the wetlands/watercourse permit, final plan review and building‑permit applications would follow. The board discussed procedural next steps and documentation the applicant must provide, including the official state permit and final drawings.

The board did not take a final vote on the project at the meeting. The next procedural step is preparation of a board resolution and submission of final drawings and building‑permit materials, with the matter scheduled for further action at the July 2 meeting.