#seqra

On May 6, 2019, the Town of Hempstead held an Environmental Scoping Meeting at Town Hall about the Grand Avenue redevelopment project. This meeting was required by New York State under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA), which is necessary for major development projects. Town Supervisor Laura Gillen and Legislators Erin King Sweeney and Dorothy Goosby introduced the purpose of the meeting and the three professional planners, who outlined the process of reviewing a number of factors in the overlay district that will be created to spur development of the Grand Avenue corridor.

To be considered in the review are the following:

Physical alteration of land, including impact on erosion, storm water run-off, and construction impacts

Groundwater resources—impact on flooding, climate change and green infrastructure

Physical enhancements—improvement to appearance in the impact area

Historic elements in the development area

Impact on transportation—traffic movement, walkability, and parking

Energy needs for the developed area when completed

Noise and light related to the development that is expected

Compatibility with the community character

A well-conceived completed SEQRA is a big step forward in spurring development. Few developers want to undertake a strenuous environmental review. If the Town completes the review, it will be easier to recruit capable developers to participate.

At the meeting, the Town accepted public comments from the audience, and a number of Baldwin residents offered remarks. The Town is now seeking written comments from the community on any of the topics listed above. If you have comments or questions about any of the environmental factors, you can email them to [email protected]. You can also mail your thoughts to Richard Regina, Esq., Hempstead Town Hall, 1 Washington Street, Hempstead NY 11550. The deadline for submission is May 24, 2019.