Development News for Lloyd, New York

Town Adopts Vision Zero Goal to Eliminate Traffic Fatalities by 2050; E-bike Regulations Discussed

The Town Board adopted Resolution Number Zero, aiming to eliminate traffic fatalities and serious injuries in the Town of Lloyd by 2050. The resolution acknowledges that crashes are preventable and that traffic safety is a fundamental right. It notes that from 2020 to 2024, there were a substantial number of crashes on Lloyd roadways, including 54 fatal and serious injury crashes. Pedestrians and bicyclists are disproportionately affected due to their vulnerability. The town is developing a safety action plan, aligning with US DOT and New York State strategies. The resolution commits the town to a goal of zero traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2050, with five-year progress reports planned. Additionally, a discussion occurred regarding the use of e-bikes and motorized scooters on the rail trail, with concerns about safety due to potential collisions. The current town code prohibits motor vehicles except wheelchairs on the rail trail. There is a desire to amend the law to address various classifications of e-bikes, some of which can reach speeds of 35 mph. Law enforcement noted that enforcing e-bike regulations on the trail is difficult and depends on changing state laws. The town is awaiting direction from Albany on e-bike regulations. Some signs at the pavilion area suggest dismounting, but enforcement is challenging without specific laws and penalties.

Town Board Considers 150-Unit Residential Development Proposal at North Road and 9W Intersection

The Town Board reviewed a proposal for a new residential development on a vacant, hilly property at the north end of North Road, at its intersection with Route 9W. The project, proposed by Barry Midenbach and Jay Fineberg, involves constructing 150 apartment units across five buildings. The development would include an access road with two entry points off North Road. The property is currently zoned R12 on the North Road side and General Business along Route 9W. The General Business zone does not permit housing, and the property is deemed unsuitable for business use due to its topography and lack of access from 9W. The applicants are seeking designation as a planned development under the town's zoning. The project would require a full environmental review under SEQRA. Water and sewer services are available, though the sewer line running down North Road needs relining, which the project proposes to address as an off-site improvement. The developers have explored alternative uses for the land, including a hotel, but found no interest due to its proximity to the Kip's and physical limitations. They believe residential use is the most viable option given regional demand. The proposal aims to provide more affordable housing and includes plans for a hiking trail and a gazebo on the hilly portion of the site, scaling back from the maximum allowed 240 units to 150 due to site constraints. The applicants are open to including three-bedroom units, as they are in demand in the town. A traffic study will be conducted to assess the impact on traffic, particularly on 9W.

Sewer Line Replacement Urged Over Relining for Proposed Development

During a discussion about the proposed North Point development, it was noted that the existing sewer line running down North Road requires relining. The developers proposed to address this as an off-site improvement as part of their project. However, a resident clarified that the sewer line, described as old, deep, and clay-lined, needs complete replacement rather than just relining due to significant infiltration that overloads the sewer plant. The resident expressed doubt that relining would provide sufficient capacity for the proposed 150 units.

Summer Recreation Preparations Underway; Park Amenities Upgraded; E-bike Safety on Rail Trail Debated

The recreation department is preparing for the summer fun program, ordering supplies, booking trips, and securing buses and t-shirts. Counselor meetings and CPR/First Aid updates are scheduled. Plans are in place for swimming at Barryanne Park, and new tables and grills have been ordered. Fence repairs are pending. The tennis and basketball courts at Tony Williams are refurbished. The town field pavilions are frequently booked for parties. A part-time worker has been added to assist with park maintenance. Hanging flower installations are planned, with issues arising regarding new brackets for lamp posts versus telephone poles. The town is exploring options for using the purchased brackets or modifying old ones. Regarding environmental matters, the proposal for the North Point development noted no significant environmental issues such as wetlands or floodplains on the property, which was historically an orchard. The developers plan to include a hiking trail and a gazebo on the hilly portion of the site as a passive recreational area. Regarding the rail trail, discussions focused on the increasing use of e-bikes and motorized scooters and the associated safety concerns, including potential collisions. While the town code prohibits most motor vehicles, the increasing prevalence and speed of some e-bikes necessitate a review of current regulations, though enforcement challenges were highlighted.