HomeMy WebLinkAbout20251110 Nelson Ave. Ext. Sketch Plan CorrespondanceOPEN SPACE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Re: Nelson Avenue Extension – Planning Board Project
Dear Members of the Planning Board:
The Saratoga Springs Open Space Advisory Committee (OSAC) has reviewed the proposed Nelson Avenue
Extension project and appreciates the opportunity to provide comments from the perspective of natural resource
protection, neighborhood compatibility, and responsible land development.
OSAC recognizes the potential benefits of the proposed development. Given the project's location adjacent to
existing residential properties, near significant transportation infrastructure, and known impacts to nearby residences
during recent storm events, we believe that there are several important items to evaluate and carefully address before
the project moves forward.
There are portions of the project that will be visible from or directly abut neighboring residential properties. OSAC
recommends that the applicant evaluate incorporation of substantial landscaped buffer s along any portions of the
project that will affect existing properties. Depending upon the final grading and site design, a berm may be an
appropriate component of this buffer. It is encouraged that any berm be designed as part of an integrated landscape
plan rather than simply as an engineered mound. Use of appropriate native trees and shrubs species to provide year-
round screening, enhance the visual character of the extension, and provide additional ec ological amenity is
recommended. The final design is encouraged to consider maintenance requirements, sight-distance needs
comparable to similar existing locations and developments (e.g., on Nelson Ave. Ext.), and impacts on neighbors.
The proposed development will include extensive new impervious surfaces. OSAC recommends careful attention to
stormwater management, potential impacts to new development because of relatively low-lying area vulnerable
during precipitation events, and potential downstream impacts. We encourage the applicant to demonstrate that the
proposed stormwater system adequately manages both the quantity and quality of runoff generated by the project ,
does not enable drainage problems for the new properties, or create new drainage problems for adjacent properties.
Where feasible, the Committee encourages the use of green infrastructure and other distributed stormwater practices
in addition to conventional stormwater infrastructure.
The proposed project would include new development among existing residential properties with the same owner.
We understand that the respective parcels are expected to remain in private ownership, which might include family
members. If alternatives are available that might alleviate concerns noted above about aesthetic and other
disturbances that might affect existing neighbors, the OSAC appreciates if the applicant considers those alternatives.
Regardless of impending decisions, OSAC believes it is important that the applicant engage directly and proactively
with the abutting property owners regarding the proposed extension and development, and explore all possible
alternatives and potential impacts thoughtfully. The Planning Board should have a clear understanding of how the
project could affect the proposed development’s existing access, driveway configuration, drainage, utilities, privacy,
and long-term ability to remain a functional residential property.
OSAC believes these measures would help ensure that the proposed development is implemented in a manner that
balances the protection of neighboring properties, responsible stormwater management, responsible products to new
homeowners, and sound open-space and landscape planning. Thank you for considering the Committee's comments.
Sincerely, Chair, Saratoga Springs Open Space Advisory Committee