Cold Spring ZBA approves 3-foot rear-yard variance for pavilion at 1 Depot Square

The Cold Spring Zoning Board of Appeals voted unanimously to grant a 3-foot rear-yard variance for a proposed pavilion at 1 Depot Square. Chair Eric Worth and the two other members present concluded the project fits the neighborhood character and that the rear setback intrusion is limited by adjacent railroad (MTA) property.

Jamie Colvin, an architect with Hudson Design, told the board the pavilion’s back corner would "extend into this, setback 3 feet" to maintain alignment with the historic Depot building’s streetscape design. Colvin said the pavilion is largely glass and that its transparency reduces visual impact on nearby properties. The chair noted the Planning Board reviewed the application and "supports the variances sought for the current site plan." The chair also stated the proposal is a SECRA type 2 action and "exempt from environmental review."

During the board’s five‑factor analysis — character change, feasible alternatives, substantiality, adverse effects, and self‑created difficulty — members said three factors weighed in favor, one was mixed and one (self‑created difficulty) weighed against but was the least influential. Member John Martin moved to grant the variance, Eric Worth seconded, and the three members present voted aye. The board directed staff to draft the formal decision for adoption at the next meeting and told the applicant they will receive a copy once finalized.

What happens next: the applicant must obtain a building permit and follow any administrative steps noted by staff before construction can proceed.