HomeMy WebLinkAbout20230378 Washington St./West Ave. Land Disturbance Public Comment 11/12/24,3:44 PM Planning Board:Washington Street Land Disturbance;concerns-Susan Barden-Outlook
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� Outlook
Planning Board: Washington Street Land Disturbance; concerns
From Eliza Bianco <eliza.whipple@gmail.com>
Date Tue 11/12/2024 11:10 AM
To Susan Barden <Susan.Barden@saratoga-springs.org>
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Dear Susan,
I am writing to express my deep concerns regarding the proposed clearing of 9 acres of forested land
and wetlands between Outlook Ave and West Ave, near Mohr's Service Center. Alongside this letter,
I've included images that illustrate the natural beauty of this land, which played a significant role in
my family's decision to purchase our home here. This project presents a permanent alteration that will
negatively affect our entire community on numerous fronts, from noise to safety to local wildlife
preservation.
Our neighborhood currently offers a safe, quiet environment with a vibrant walking community. The
proposed development, however, brings with it a strong potential for a multi-story commercial
building, along with the heavy trafFic, continuous lighting, and substantial noise that accompany it.
Without the forest buffer, the noise from West Ave already resonates through our neighborhood, as I
can hear even while writing this letter.
We face numerous safety concerns as well. As a parent of three young children, I'm particularly
alarmed by the increased foot traffic this project will likely bring. In recent months, we've already
experienced homeless individuals attempting to cut through our property to reach West Ave. The
forest currently acts as a natural deterrent, keeping activity on designated streets rather than our
yards, and provides safety to my family and the local school.
This area is also home to an array of wildlife, including deer, woodchucks, and a rich bird population
that even includes an occasional bald eagle. Destroying this habitat would not only displace these
creatures but would significantly diminish the environmental health and natural beauty that so many
of us in this community value.
In closing, I urge the planning board to prioritize our community's long-term well-being over short-
term development. Please consider the irreversible impact this project will have on our environment,
safety, and quality of life, and help us protect our cherished neighborhood for generations to come.
Eliza &Thomas Bianco
27 Outlook Ave.
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11/12/24,3:44 PM Planning Board:Washington Street Land Disturbance;concerns-Susan Barden-Outlook
E1iza Whipple Bianco
518-339-6698
eliz a.whipple��gmail.com
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