Development News for Colonie, New York

First Columbia LLC Secures Special Use Permit for Mini-Warehouse Facility

The Zoning Board of Appeals reviewed an appeal from First Columbia LLC concerning a building permit denial for a mini-warehouse self-storage facility at 1199 Troy Schenectady Road (aka 1203 Choice Connected Road). This use requires a special use permit (SUP) in the commercial office residential (COR) zoning district. The property also lacks the required 100-foot lot width and frontage. In 2023, the board had previously granted an SUP for a similar climate-controlled storage and warehouse use. The current proposal involves constructing new buildings totaling 95,000 sq ft (80,000 sq ft climate-controlled, 63,000 sq ft cold storage, 8,000 sq ft cold storage, 1,500 sq ft cold storage, and RV/camper storage), a reduction from the previous approved 125,000 sq ft. The board unanimously approved the seeker recommendation and the SUP, noting the previous approval, the reduction in size, and the access via Route 7.

Zoning Board Upholds Long-Standing Two-Family Use at 84 Island View Road

The Zoning Board of Appeals heard an appeal regarding a property at 84 Island View Road. The applicant, John Crevalis, sought an interpretation to allow a two-family residence, which had been in use for 33-34 years, on a lot recently subdivided into two legal lots. The board ultimately overturned the building department's denial, permitting the replacement of the existing two-family structure on its original footprint, deeming the use as non-conforming. The decision was made after extensive discussion about historical use, town enforcement, and legal precedents regarding non-conforming uses. Neighbors expressed support for the proposal, citing the applicant's positive impact on the neighborhood and property values.

Zoning Board Grants Variance for Home Addition at 19 Verdun Street

The Zoning Board of Appeals considered an appeal for a building permit denial at 19 Verdun Street. The applicant, Kevin O'Brien, sought a variance to construct a two-story addition, requesting a 5.8-foot right side yard setback variance from the required 10 feet to accommodate a growing family (fourth child expected). The design extends over the driveway space, as other sides of the house have limitations due to property lines, existing pool, and proximity to the neighbor. The applicant presented a site plan and discussed discussions with the immediate neighbor (17 Verdun Street), who expressed support. The board approved the variance with a 5-1 vote, allowing the addition to proceed.