Developers revise 6 Cotswold Way subdivision options; board declares intent to be lead agency

The Greenburgh Planning Board on Feb. 19 considered case PB2403, a subdivision/variance application for 6 Cotswold Way that would split an oversized parcel and require several variances. Architect Emilio Escaladas presented four options: keep the status quo, subdivide and obtain variances with a curb cut, use an existing rear right‑of‑way to minimize tree removal and excavation, or pursue a no‑variance design that would still require steep‑slope work.

Escaladas said the preferred approach eliminated the primary curb cut onto the busier road and instead would use an existing access to reduce tree cutting, grading and disturbance. He told the board the proposed house would not exceed allowable floor‑area ratios when measured under applicable slope‑adjustment rules and characterized the design as sensitive to neighborhood character.

Staff read a comment from the fire district that opposed adding another dwelling served by a narrow shared driveway. Board members pressed the applicant for details on how many houses use that right‑of‑way (the board recorded it already serves three houses and this project would become a fourth), traffic and sight lines for a potential curb cut on Cotswold Way, and the scope of variances (setbacks, lot area and other dimensional exceptions) required for the proposed subdivision.

Property owner Benjamin said the applicants reworked the plans after prior feedback and emphasized they attempted alternatives to address neighbor concerns. Several neighbors’ letters opposing any new house on the parcel were noted on the record.

After discussion and guidance from counsel about procedure (the meeting was a work session and no final determinations would be made), the board moved, seconded and voted to declare its intent to act as lead agency for environmental review so staff may notify other involved agencies and solicit objections. That action allows staff to circulate a notice of intent while the board continues to gather information on fire‑safety implications, sight lines and the precise variances required. No variances or final approvals were granted tonight.

Quote: “We will resolve that,” Emilio Escaladas said describing the access alternatives to protect trees and reduce excavation.

Next steps: Staff will circulate letters to involved agencies, and the board will consider input from the fire district and any agency responses before making final determinations at a future meeting.