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DIA parking expansion clears public hearing after board examines viewshed, plantings and lighting
Summary
DIA’s plan to add a 49‑space lot and a storage building received public support and consultant scrutiny on tree removal, LWRP viewshed, and pole lighting; the board closed the hearing and authorized a draft resolution after a SEQRA discussion.
The applicant for the DIA lot expansion described a new parking area with 49 spaces, a 60x70x18' storage building to match existing maintenance structures, and a staggered planting palette including yellowwood, dogwoods and rhododendrons. Mike Bodendorf emphasized that the new lot will also be available to Riverview Funeral Home on off‑DIA days and that the access drive was widened to 24 feet to improve circulation.
Planning staff and consultants questioned tree removal along the river view corridor and asked for clearer planting sections to show how views to Storm King and Breakneck will be preserved or enhanced. The board discussed lighting design; proposed pole heights (20 feet) and motion sensors (auto shutoff, with options for dimming) were debated to reduce nighttime glare. After hearing comments from neighbors and civic partners, the board voted to close the public hearing and, following consultant review, adopted a SEQRA negative declaration on the basis that the chosen site minimized grading and tree removal compared with alternatives. The board asked the applicant to provide spacing/species details, confirmation of utility/inspection manholes, and to coordinate a restoration bond if tree removals proceed before final approvals.
