Planned 600‑seat downtown venue "The Jinx" wins commission approval with neighbor conditions

Pritchard Development Corp. and project partners presented plans for The Jinx, a proposed roughly 600‑seat music and entertainment venue at 134 Water Street. Applicant representatives described design revisions requested at a prior meeting and explained updates including a fenced dumpster enclosure, removal of exterior bollards at a side door, and designation of ADA spaces in the lot.

Councilman Robert Kavanaugh (3rd District) spoke in support by handing in a letter that highlighted economic and cultural benefits and urged approval. Local proprietor James (Jamie) Tuttle, who owns Craft Bar and Kitchen, said he supports downtown activity but questioned whether the project would block access to apartment deliveries and restaurant operations via a shared parking area and urged careful consideration of dumpster placement and emergency access. The developer said title work showed no easements and expressed willingness to coordinate with neighbors, move the dumpster, add bollards, and provide controlled side‑gate access for service periods.

The commission issued a negative SEQR declaration and approved the site plan and special‑use permit with the expectation that the developer will provide final easement documentation if it surfaces and will work with restaurants on dumpster and loading arrangements. As Councilman Kavanaugh wrote to the commission in support, "I urge our partners across government to support and approve this significant project." The applicant noted timing pressures tied to grant deadlines but the commission recorded motions approving the project subject to the agreed coordination.