Urban Renewal Plan and Expanded Environmental Assessment for Downtown Suffern Orange Avenue Village of Suffern, New York

Transcription

1 Urban Renewal Plan and Expanded Environmental Assessment for Downtown Suffern Orange Avenue Village of Suffern, New York Prepared For: Village of Suffern Prepared By: Saccardi & Schiff, Inc. Planning and Development Consultants 445 Hamilton Avenue White Plains, NY December 2008

2 Urban Renewal Plan and Expanded Environmental Assessment for Downtown Suffern Orange Avenue Village of Suffern, New York Prepared For: Village of Suffern John Keegan, Mayor Dagan A. Lacorte, Deputy Mayor Patricia Abato, Trustee Andrew Haggerty, Trustee John F. Meehan, Trustee Consultants: Engineering: Thomas Vanderbeek, Greater Hudson Valley Engineering and Land Surveying, P.C. Legal: Ryan S. Karben, Esq. Planning: Saccardi & Schiff, Inc. December 2008

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS Page URBAN RENEWAL PLAN I. INTRODUCTION... 1 II. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT... 1 A. Boundaries of the Urban Renewal Project... 1 B. Urban Renewal Project Objectives... 1 C. Proposed Land Uses... 4 III. CONFORMITY TO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AND CONSISTENCY WITH LOCAL OBJECTIVES... 8 IV. PROJECT PROPOSALS... 8 A. Land Acquisition... 8 B. Changes in Land Acquisition C. Relocation D. Demolition E. Redevelopment V. PROPOSED PUBLIC, SEMI-PUBLIC, PRIVATE OR COMMUNITY FACILITIES OR UTILITIES VI. PROPOSED METHODS OR TECHNIQUES OF URBAN RENEWAL VII. STATEMENT AS TO PROPOSED NEW CODES AND ORDINANCES AND AMENDMENTS TO EXISTING CODES AND ORDINANCES AS ARE REQUIRED OR NECESSARY TO EFFECTUATE THIS PLAN VIII. PROPOSED TIME SCHEDULE FOR THE EFFECTUATION OF THIS PLAN IX. DURATION OF PLAN CONTROLS X. PROCEDURE FOR CHANGES IN THE APPROVAL PLAN XI. PROVISIONS TO PRESERVE THE INTEGRITY OF THE PLAN APPENDIX A: PROPOSED ZONING...14 EXHIBITS Exhibit 1 Redevelopment Area Boundary... 3 Exhibit 2 Proposed Land Uses and Zoning... 7 Exhibit 3 Acquisition and Redevelopment Parcels... 9

4 EXPANDED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT I. DETERMINATION OF SIGNIFICANCE... 1 II. PART 1-PROJECT INFORMATION... 2 A. Site Description... 2 B. Project Description... 3 C. Zoning and Planning Information... 5 D. Informational Details... 5 E. Verification... 5 III. PART 2-PROJECT IMPACT AND THEIR MAGNITUDE... 6 A. Impact on Land... 6 B. Impact on Water... 7 C. Impact on Air... 8 D. Impact on Plants and Animals... 8 E. Impact on Agricultural Land Resources... 8 F. Impacts on Aesthetics Resources... 9 G. Impacts on Historic and Archeological Resources... 9 H. Impact on Open Space and Recreation... 9 I. Impact on Critical Environmental Areas J. Impact on Transportation K. Impact on Energy L. Noise and Odor Impacts M. Impact on Public Health N. Impact on Growth and Character of Community or Neighborhood IV. PART 3-EVALUATION OF THE IMPORTANCE OF IMPACTS A. Introduction B. Background C. Downtown Suffern Orange Avenue Urban Renewal Area D. Potential Impacts ATTACHMENT A: URBAN RENEWAL AREA ATTACHMENT A TABLE: PROJECT AREA PARCELS ATTACHMENT B: CORRESPONDENCE June 17, 2008 Robert MacNaughton, Superintendent of Schools to Saccardi & Schiff, Inc. June 13, 2008 Saccardi & Schiff, Inc. to Robert MacNaughton, Superintendent of Schools May 15, 2008 Robert MacNaughton, Superintendent of Schools to Saccardi & Schiff, Inc. May 15, 2008 Saccardi & Schiff, Inc. to Robert MacNaughton, Superintendent of Schools May 15, 2008 New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to Saccardi & Schiff, Inc. May 8, 2008 Clarke Osborn, Chief of Police to Saccardi & Schiff, Inc. April 29, 2008 Saccardi & Schiff, Inc. to Robert MacNaughton, Superintendent of Schools April 29, 2008 Saccardi & Schiff, Inc. to NYSDEC-DFWMR April 29, 2008 Saccardi & Schiff, Inc. to Clarke Osborn, Chief of Police April 29, 2008 Saccardi & Schiff, Inc. to John Dawson, Fire Chief ATTACHMENT C: DISTRIBUTION LIST... 28

5 Urban Renewal Plan for Downtown Suffern Orange Avenue Village of Suffern, New York Prepared For: Village of Suffern Prepared By: Saccardi & Schiff, Inc. Planning and Development Consultants 445 Hamilton Avenue White Plains, NY December 2008

6 I. INTRODUCTION In accordance with the requirements set forth in Article 15 of the General Municipal Law of the State of New York, this Urban Renewal Plan for Downtown Suffern Orange Avenue has been prepared to promote and regulate development within the Urban Renewal Area as defined below. It is based, in part, on the findings of the October 12, 2007 Downtown Suffern Orange Avenue Designation Study. II. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT A. Boundaries of the Urban Renewal Project The boundaries of the Downtown Suffern Orange Avenue Urban Renewal Project, hereinafter referred to as the Project or Project Area, are shown in Exhibit 1, Redevelopment Area Boundary. The Project Area consists of a portion of one block located on Orange Avenue, adjacent to the Village s downtown core and the NJ Transit Suffern Station. The downtown core area, focused on Lafayette Avenue, is separated from the railroad station by the properties within the Project Area. For purposes of this plan, this Village block will hereinafter be referred to as Block 1, and indicated on Exhibit 1. Block 1 includes a series of seven parcels located between Orange Avenue to the west and Chestnut Street to the east, directly south to the rear of the Lafayette Avenue commercial corridor. In total, the Project Area includes 7 parcels, totaling 1.67 acres. The Project Area also encompasses land in the surrounding roadways, including a portion of Chestnut Street between Lafayette and Orange Avenues. B. Urban Renewal Project Objectives The objectives of this Urban Renewal Plan, hereinafter referred to as the Plan, are as follows: 1. To eliminate substandard conditions within the Project Area as identified in the Downtown Suffern Orange Avenue Designation Study, prepared in October 2007; 2. To redevelop deteriorating and underutilized properties with residential and limited commercial uses designed to serve local area residents; 3. To create new housing opportunities within the Village; 4. To provide support for downtown retail and service establishments in the adjacent downtown through the development of new housing; 5. To help support the use of and environment surrounding the NJ Transit Suffern Station; 1

7 6. To enhance the aesthetics and overall image of the Project Area; 7. To generate a positive trend in neighborhood real estate values; 8. To improve public safety; and 9. To help generate economic activity. 2

8 NJ Transit 0 100' LAFAYETTE 1 AVENUE 2 3 ORANGE AVENUE Block CHESTNUT STREET AVENUE NJ Transit Train Station E. PARK PLACE PARK E. MAPLE AVENUE 1 Parcel Identifier Urban Renewal Area Boundary Properties to be Acquired BASE MAP SOURCE: Rockland County Department of Planning - GIS Exhibit 1 URBAN RENEWAL AREA BOUNDARY DOWNTOWN SUFFERN-ORANGE AVENUE URBAN RENEWAL PLAN Village of Suffern, New York Saccardi & Schiff, Inc. - Planning and Development Consultants

9 C. Project Area Parcels and Proposed Land Uses This Urban Renewal Plan proposes the redevelopment of deteriorated properties and key underutilized sites within the Project Area. Table 1, Project Area Parcels, and Exhibit 2, Proposed Land Uses and Zoning Districts, present the sites. Table 1 Project Area Parcels Block Parcel* Location Description Approx. Size (Ac.) Orange Ave. Parking lot Orange Ave. Former Hotel Lafayette Orange Ave. Parking lot Orange Ave. Possibly storage Orange Ave. Former auto repair Chestnut St. Residential Chestnut St. Restaurant supply 0.19 Total 1.67 The Plan s land use strategy consists of creating a multiple family residential use with limited ground floor commercial use at a targeted location. The proposed land use within the Project Area is shown on Exhibit 2. Exhibit 2 indicates the proposed land use categories and the proposed zoning district in the Project Area. The land use strategy is the creation of residential housing with limited ground floor commercial use that would act as an extension of the downtown area. As illustrated in Exhibit 2, the residential use will be in close proximity to the Project Area s key transportation resources: NJ Transit Suffern Station and Orange Avenue, which is U.S. Route 202. This type of development is intended to create a vital link between the train station and the Village s downtown. Commuter use of NJ Transit is expected to increase as improvements are made to the line, ultimately resulting in a one-seat ride from Suffern to Manhattan. These improvements are anticipated to increase demand for housing in the Village of Suffern overall, and make transit oriented development a particularly attractive housing alternative. The overall redevelopment strategy seeks to improve linkages between the station and the downtown area, which, in turn, will improve safety. Following is a description of Block 1 with the proposed land use and development guidelines. Block 1 Block 1 is proposed for dense multiple family residential use. Limited ground floor commercial use is permitted as a Special Permit Use, but not required. Given this block s adjacency to downtown Lafayette Avenue commercial uses and the NJ Transit Suffern Station, a residential density of 60 units per acre is 4

10 proposed. A total of 5,000 square feet of ground floor commercial use is permitted. A new MR-60 Residential District is proposed. Land Use Controls: MR-60 Zoning Maximum Permitted Residential Development: 60 dwelling units per acre (maximum 100 units) Maximum Permitted Commercial Development: 5,000 square feet Building and Design Guidelines: 1. Parking to be provided below the building, either underground and/or at grade, to take advantage of existing topography, if possible. Surface parking, at grade under-building parking, or above-ground parking is permitted but should not be visible from either Chestnut Street or Orange Avenue. Parking shall be shielded by landscaped berms, landscape buffering and/or building treatment. 2. Main pedestrian access shall be provided on Orange Avenue, with additional pedestrian access on Chestnut Street to facilitate access to the downtown. 3. Building setback on Orange Avenue shall be a minimum of 15 feet. 4. Building setback on Chestnut Street shall be a minimum of 15 feet. 5. Building rear setback shall be a minimum of 20 feet. 6. Five residential units shall be provided as workforce housing units in accordance with regulations and standards to be determined by the Village of Suffern. 7. Maximum commercial space permitted shall be 5,000 square feet and is limited to the first floor with frontage on either Orange Avenue or Chestnut Street. Site Design Guidelines: 1. Primary vehicular access to the site shall be from Chestnut Street. Right turn ingress and egress access only from Orange Avenue is permitted. 2. The sidewalk on Chestnut Street shall be improved and shall incorporate and continue any existing streetscape design treatments on Chestnut Street just south of Lafayette Avenue. 3. The sidewalk and associated roadway transition on Chestnut Street at the upper and lower roadway shall be improved by the developer based on a design to be determined and coordinated with the Village Engineer or consulting engineer. 4. The sidewalk on Orange Avenue shall be improved and shall incorporate and continue streetscape design treatments consistent with those along Lafayette Avenue. To achieve the development envisioned in this Plan, a program of acquisition and demolition will be undertaken by either a private developer or the Village of Suffern, which will dispose of such properties for redevelopment in accordance 5

11 with this Plan. Eminent domain, however, will not be used to acquire the singlefamily home (parcel 6) on Block 1. This parcel will be acquired only through an agreement between the homeowner and a private developer. This program of acquisition and demolition is discussed under Section IV. Project Proposals below. 6

12 AVENUE NJ Transit 0 100' LAFAYETTE STREET CHESTNUT ORANGE AVENUE MR-60 AVENUE NJ Transit Train Station E. PARK PLACE PARK E. MAPLE AVENUE MR-60 Redevelopment Area Boundary Multi-Family Residential Limited Commercial Multi-Family Residential Zoning District Zoning District Boundary BASE MAP SOURCE: Rockland County Department of Planning - GIS Exhibit 2 PROPOSED LAND USE AND ZONING DISTRICT DOWNTOWN SUFFERN-ORANGE AVENUE URBAN RENEWAL PLAN Village of Suffern, New York Saccardi & Schiff, Inc. - Planning and Development Consultants

13 III. CONFORMITY TO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AND CONSISTENCY WITH LOCAL OBJECTIVES The most relevant Comprehensive Planning Study for the Urban Renewal Plan is the 2001 Village of Suffern Downtown District Plan. This study, prepared by The Saratoga Associates for the Village Board, identifies conceptual plans and recommendations for the subject Study Area. The Downtown Suffern Orange Avenue Urban Renewal Plan conforms to several recommendations and objectives in this District Plan. The District Plan proposes redevelopment of portions of the subject Study Area with multi-family housing with frontage along Orange Avenue, similar to the guidelines suggested in this Urban Renewal Plan. The District Plan also recommends enhanced pedestrian access from the downtown and Orange Avenue to the train station, an attractive streetscape design for Chestnut Street and Orange Avenue, and site design that places off-street parking facilities away from public view. All of these recommendations are consistent with this Urban Renewal Plan. The Downtown Suffern Orange Avenue Urban Renewal Plan acknowledges all these District Plan principles and provides a more comprehensive, site-specific redevelopment plan for the subject Study Area, hence furthering the objectives of the District Plan. In addition, the Downtown Suffern-Orange Avenue Urban Renewal Plan conforms to all local requirements, including zoning requirements, as amended. A 2005 Village of Suffern Limited Comprehensive Plan focused on development potential of the village and downtown parking. In assessing future development potential and resulting population, the study did not consider the potential for urban renewal designation, rezoning and multifamily redevelopment of the subject parcels. Prior to this Limited Plan, the Village Development Plan of 1974 appears to be the latest Comprehensive Plan. This Plan did not envision urban renewal designation, rezoning and redevelopment of the subject parcels. IV. PROJECT PROPOSALS A. Land Acquisition Within designated areas, this Plan provides for the acquisition of properties by either private developers or the Village of Suffern for redevelopment purposes. Properties within the Project Area to be acquired for clearance and redevelopment are shown in Exhibit 3. It is anticipated that the Village of Suffern will acquire all properties on Block 1, except for the single-family house on parcel 6. All properties will be acquired in full fee title. There will be no acquisition and development of air rights. 8

14 AVENUE NJ Transit 0 100' LAFAYETTE Properties to be acquired by Village and developed by designated developer in accordance with Urban Renewal Plan Block 1 CHESTNUT STREET ORANGE AVENUE AVENUE NJ Transit Parcel 6 to be acquired only by private entity and developed in accordance with Urban Renewal Plan Train Station E. PARK PLACE PARK E. MAPLE AVENUE Parcel Identifier Urban Renewal Area Boundary Properties to be Acquired BASE MAP SOURCE: Rockland County Department of Planning - GIS Exhibit 3 ACQUISITION AND REDEVELOPMENT PARCELS DOWNTOWN SUFFERN-ORANGE AVENUE URBAN RENEWAL PLAN Village of Suffern, New York Saccardi & Schiff, Inc. - Planning and Development Consultants

15 B. Changes in Land Acquisition Exhibit 1 identifies properties designated for acquisition under this Plan. There may be changes in such acquisition under the following circumstances: Detailed architectural or engineering studies or title search information may indicate the need to acquire minor additional parcels of land or amend acquisition boundaries in order to effectuate the Plan. C. Relocation The Plan will require the relocation of businesses and residences. The Village of Suffern will be responsible for the overall administration of relocation activities in accordance with the policies, procedures, and requirements applicable to funding sources utilized for acquisition and other project components. Block 1 includes a number of properties that will be acquired as part of the implementation of the proposed Urban Renewal Plan. There are three buildings currently occupied: a single family, owner-occupied residence; a small warehouse building; and a mixed use building with vacant commercial space on the ground floor, that currently has a building permit and is being renovated for use as a restaurant, with approximately 30 rooming house units on the upper floors. The rooming house can legally accommodate 46 persons and currently accommodates approximately that number. The Rockland County Department of Social Services has confirmed that no residents are currently receiving any type of assistance from the County. If Federal funds are utilized for any portion of the renewal project, relocation benefits will be provided in accordance with the Federal Uniform Acquisition and Relocation Act. This will include moving expenses and fixture payments for commercial uses, rental assistance for residential tenants and general relocation assistance, helping occupants identify suitable accommodations that are decent, safe and sanitary. Relocation assistance will be provided through the office of the Village Clerk. Residential tenants requiring relocation will be directed to the Rockland County Department of Social Services, or Rockland County Office for the Aging for senior housing, and non-profit housing organizations in Rockland County such as HOGAR Inc. and Community Action Partnership of Rockland County, Inc. While the Rockland County Office of Community Development and the Town of Ramapo Housing Authority are agencies that make Section 8 available to qualifying families and individuals, their waiting lists are up to date and closed. If implementation of the Urban Renewal Plan does not utilize governmental funds, relocation assistance will still be provided through the office of the Village Clerk, helping occupants with moving expenses, and assisting tenants to identify 10

16 suitable accommodations. Referrals to Rockland County agencies and non-profit organizations identified above will also be made. The Urban Renewal Plan does not call for property acquisition on parcel 6, a single-family home. In this case, it is assumed that private developers would purchase the property for redevelopment. Relocation assistance, as described above, would be provided to the residential tenants of this property. D. Demolition All existing structures on properties designated for acquisition under this Plan will be demolished and cleared as necessary and appropriate for redevelopment. E. Redevelopment All property designated for acquisition under this Plan will be made available for private redevelopment or public improvements. The Urban Renewal Plan proposes residential multifamily use for this site. The Village, as part of its disposition of property for residential and limited commercial uses, may consider in its approval any or all of the following: The number of residential units; Whether units are ownership, rental, condominium or cooperative units; The estimated initial rents or selling prices for such units; Income restrictions, if any; Restrictions on future rents or resale prices, if any; The type of commercial uses; and, The basis on which consideration for the sale or lease of the property is to be determined. V. PROPOSED PUBLIC, SEMI-PUBLIC, PRIVATE, OR COMMUNITY FACILITIES OR UTILITIES The selected redeveloper or redevelopers will make improvements to facilities, such as, but not limited to, water, storm and sanitary sewer lines, vehicular and pedestrian access (including minor improvements to NJ Transit access ways), landscaping, and other level of services for the Project Area. VI. PROPOSED METHODS OR TECHNIQUES OF URBAN RENEWAL This Plan proposes acquisition of designated properties in the Project Area, demolition of existing structures, and reuse of the properties for new housing, businesses and parking. 11

17 VII. STATEMENT AS TO PROPOSED NEW CODES AND ORDINANCES AND AMENDMENTS TO EXISTING CODES AND ORDINANCES AS ARE REQUIRED OR NECESSARY TO EFFECTUATE THIS PLAN The proposed residential and limited commercial redevelopment shall be governed by the lot and bulk controls of the new zoning district created within the Urban Renewal Plan. Since the targeted residential site on Block 1 is currently zoned CB, Central Business District, it will be necessary to rezone the properties on Block 1 to a newly proposed residential MR-60 District. Regulations for this new district are located in Appendix A. VIII. PROPOSED TIME SCHEDULE FOR THE EFFECTUATION OF THIS PLAN Effectuation of this Plan will commence upon approval and adoption of the Plan by the Village Board of the Village of Suffern ( Village Board ). IX. DURATION OF PLAN CONTROLS The regulations and controls contained in this Plan shall be binding and effective by redevelopment agreement, deed or lease upon all purchasers or lessees of land (and their heirs or assigns) in the Project Area, covered by the Plan, from the date of approval of this Plan by the Village Board of the Village of Suffern for a period of forty (40) years, unless amended as provided herein. X. PROCEDURE FOR CHANGES IN APPROVED PLAN The provisions of this Plan may be modified or amended at any time by the Village Board in accordance with the provisions of Article 15 and Article 15A of New York General Municipal Law. XI. PROVISIONS TO PRESERVE THE INTEGRITY OF THIS PLAN In order to preserve the integrity of this Plan, the consent of the Village Board, or its designee, will be required, for three years after approval of the Plan, for issuance of a building construction or alteration permit, or certificate of occupancy for a structure or use within the Project Area, unless construction, alteration, or use is necessary for the immediate protection of public health and safety. The Village Board, or its designee, shall base its authorization upon a determination that the proposed construction, alteration or use is consistent with this Plan. 12

18 Appendix A Proposed Zoning 14

19 Schedule of Village of Suffern General Use Requirements Part I District Permitted Uses Accessory Uses Special Permit Uses (refer to Article VI) Required Off-Street Parking MR High-rise multiple dwellings. 1. All accessory uses in the MR-15 District. 1. Retail stores; personal services; galleries; studios, as permitted in the CB District. 2. Restaurants as permitted in the CB District. 1. High-rise multiple dwellings: 1.5 spaces per dwelling unit, plus ¼ space per dwelling unit for units with 2 bedrooms, plus additional ¼ space per dwelling unit for units with 3 or more bedrooms. 2. Retail stores; personal services; galleries; studios: 2.5 parking spaces per 1,000 square feet of commercial space. 3. Restaurants: 2.5 parking spaces per 1,000 square feet of commercial space. Village of Suffern Table of Dimensional Requirements For the uses listed below, the following bulk regulations apply: Maximum Height District Uses Minimum Lot Area (square feet) Minimum Lot Width (feet) Minimum Front Yard (feet) Minimum Side Yard (feet) Minimum Total Side Yards (feet) Minimum Rear Yard (feet) Maximum Development Coverage (percent area) (stories) (feet) MR-60 Multiple dwellings (high-rise) 40,

20 Expanded Environmental Assessment for Downtown Suffern Orange Avenue Village of Suffern, New York Prepared For: Village of Suffern Prepared By: Saccardi & Schiff, Inc. Planning and Development Consultants 445 Hamilton Avenue White Plains, NY December 2008

21 Appendix A State Environmental Quality Review FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM Purpose: The full EAF is designed to help applicants and agencies determine, in an orderly manner, whether a project or action may be significant. The question of whether an action may be significant is not always easy to answer. Frequently, there are aspects of a project that are subjective or unmeasurable. It is also understood that those who determine significance may have little or no formal knowledge of the environment or may not be technically expert in environmental analysis. In addition, many who have knowledge in one particular area may not be aware of the broader concerns affecting the question of significance. The full EAF is intended to provide a method whereby applicants and agencies can be assured that the determination process has been orderly, comprehensive in nature, yet flexible enough to allow introduction of information to fit a project or action. Full EAF Components: The full EAF is comprised of three parts: Part 1: Part 2: Part 3: Provides objective data and information about a given project and its site. By identifying basic project data, it assists a reviewer in the analysis that takes place in Parts 2 and 3. Focuses on identifying the range of possible impacts that may occur from a project or action. It provides guidance as to whether an impact is likely to be considered small to moderate or whether it is a potentially large impact. The form also identifies whether an impact can be mitigated or reduced. If any impact in Part 2 is identified as potentially-large, then Part 3 is used to evaluate whether or not the impact is actually important. DETERMINATION OF SIGNIFICANCE -- Type 1 and Unlisted Actions Identify the Portions of EAF completed for this project: Part 1 Part 2 G Part 3 Upon review of the information recorded on this EAF (Parts 1 and 2 and 3 if appropriate), and any other supporting information, and considering both the magnitude and importance of each impact, it is reasonably determined by the lead agency that: G A. The project will not result in any large and important impact(s) and, therefore, is one, which will not have a significant impact on the environment; therefore a negative declaration will be prepared. G B. Although the project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect for this Unlisted Action because the mitigation measures described in PART 3 have been required, therefore a CONDITIONED negative declaration will be prepared.* G C. The project may result in one or more large and important impacts that may have a significant impact on the environment; therefore a positive declaration will be prepared. *A Conditioned Negative Declaration is only valid for Unlisted Actions Urban Renewal Plan for Downtown Suffern Orange Avenue Name of Action Village of Suffern Village Board Name of Lead Agency John B. Keegan Mayor Print or Type Name of Responsible Officer in Lead Agency Title of Responsible Officer Jill Gallant, Saccardi & Schiff, Inc. Signature of Responsible Officer in Lead Agency Signature of Prepare (if different from responsible officer) Date 1

22 PART 1--PROJECT INFORMATION Prepared by Project Sponsor NOTICE: This document is designed to assist in determining whether the action proposed may have a significant effect on the environment. Please complete the entire form, Parts A through E. Answers to these questions will be considered as part of the application for approval and may be subject to further verification and public review. Provide any additional information you believe needed to complete Parts 2 and 3. It is expected that completion of the full EAF will be dependent on information currently available and will not involve new studies, research or investigation. If information requiring such additional work is unavailable, so indicate and specify each instance. Name of Action Urban Renewal Plan for Downtown Suffern Orange Avenue Location of Action (include Street Address, Municipality and County) Portions of one block along Orange Avenue, Village of Suffern, Rockland County Name of Applicant/Sponsor Village of Suffern - Village Board Business Telephone ( 845 ) Address 61 Washington Avenue City/PO Suffern State NY Zip Code Name of Owner (if different) Business Telephone ( ) Address City/PO State Zip Code Description of Action The adoption of the Village of Suffern Urban Renewal Plan for Downtown Suffern Orange Avenue and related Zoning Ordinance amendments. The affected area includes the block and lots identified in Attachment A. All of the designated area will be included as part of the Urban Renewal Area and be subject to proposed zone changes and land use controls and site design guidelines. Only portions of Block 1 will be subject to acquisition. Please Complete Each Question--Indicate N.A. if not applicable A. SITE DESCRIPTION Physical setting of overall project, both developed and undeveloped areas. 1. Present land use: Urban G Industrial G Commercial G Residential (suburban) G Rural (non-farm) G Forest G Agriculture G Other 2. Total acreage of project area: 1.67 acres. APPROXIMATE ACREAGE PRESENTLY AFTER COMPLETION Meadow or Brushland (Non-agricultural) acres acres Forested acres acres Agricultural (Includes orchards, cropland, pasture, etc.) acres acres Wetland (Freshwater or tidal as per Articles 24,25 of ECL) acres acres Water Surface Area acres acres Unvegetated (Rock, earth or fill) acres acres Roads, buildings and other paved surfaces ±1.67 acres ±1.67 acres Other (Indicate type) acres acres 3. What is predominant soil type(s) on project site? 100% Ux, Urban Land a. Soil drainage: Well drained 100 % of site G Moderately well drained % of site G Poorly drained % of site b. If any agricultural land is involved, how many acres of soil are classified within soil group 1 through 4 of the NYS Land Classification System? N/A acres (See 1 NYCRR 370). 2

23 4. Are there bedrock outcroppings on project site? G Yes No a. What is depth to bedrock? >5 feet (in feet) 5. Approximate percentage of proposed project site with slopes:g 0-10% % G10-15% % G 15% or greater % TBD 6. Is project substantially contiguous to, or contain a building, site, or district, listed on the State or the National Registers of Historic Places? G Yes No 7. Is project substantially contiguous to a site listed on the Register of National Natural Landmarks? G Yes No 8. What is the depth of the water table? >6 feet (in feet) 9. Is site located over a primary, principal, or sole source aquifer? Yes, Ramapo Aquifer Systems G No 10. Do hunting, fishing or shell fishing opportunities presently exist in the project area? G Yes No 11. Does project site contain any species of plant or animal life that is identified as threatened or endangered? Yes G No According to _Letter from NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation, 5/15/08 Identify each species _Timber Rattlesnake within 1.5 miles from site_(no habitat on Project Site) 12. Are there any unique or unusual land forms on the project site?(i.e., cliffs, dunes, other geological formations) G Yes No Describe 13. Is the project site presently used by the community or neighborhood as an open space or recreation area? G Yes No If yes, explain 14. Does the present site include scenic views known to be important to the community? G Yes No 15. Streams within or contiguous to project area: None a. Name of Stream and name of River to which it is tributary 16. Lakes, ponds, wetland areas within or contiguous to project area: None a. Name b. Size (In acres) 17. Is the site served by existing public utilities? Yes G No a) If Yes, does sufficient capacity exist to allow connection? Yes G No b) If Yes, will improvements be necessary to allow connection? G Yes No 18. Is the site located in an agricultural district certified pursuant to Agriculture and Markets Law, Article 25-AA, Section 303 and 304? G Yes No 19. Is the site located in or substantially contiguous to a Critical Environmental Area designated pursuant to Article 8 of the ECL, and 6 NYCRR 617? G Yes No 20. Has the site ever been used for the disposal of solid or hazardous wastes? G Yes G No TBD B. Project Description 1. Physical dimensions and scale of project (fill in dimensions as appropriate) a. Total contiguous acreage owned or controlled by project sponsor 1.67 acres. (Various owners, but all lots to be included in the Urban Renewal Boundary.) b. Project acreage to be developed: 1.67 acres initially; 1.67 acres ultimately. c. Project acreage to remain undeveloped 0 acres. d. Length of project, in miles: N/A (if appropriate). e. If the project is an expansion, indicate percent of expansion proposed N/A %. f. Number of off-street parking spaces existing TBD ; proposed Potential maximum of 175. g. Maximum vehicular trips generated per hour AM Peak Hour 35 ; PM Peak Hour 44 (upon completion of project). h. If residential, Number and type of housing units: One Family Two Family Multiple Family Condominium Initially ±100 Ultimately ±100 i. Dimensions (in feet) of largest proposed structure 6 stories max. height; TBD width; TBD length. j. Linear feet of frontage along a public thoroughfare project will occupy is? ±658 ft. 2. How much natural material (i.e., rock, earth, etc.) will be removed from the site? TBD tons/cubic yards. 3. Will disturbed areas be reclaimed? G Yes G No N/A (TBD) 3

24 a. If yes, for what intended purpose is the site being reclaimed? b. Will topsoil be stockpiled for reclamation? G Yes G No c. Will upper subsoil be stockpiled for reclamation? G Yes G No 4. How many acres of vegetation (trees, shrubs, ground covers) will be removed from site? 0 acres. 5. Will any mature forest (over 100 years old) or other locally-important vegetation be removed by this project? G Yes No 6. If single-phase project: Anticipated period of construction TBD months, (including demolition). 7. If multi-phased: a. Total number of phases anticipated (number). b. Anticipated date of commencement phase 1 month year, (including demolition). c. Approximate completion date of final phase month year. d. Is phase 1 functionally dependent on subsequent phases? G Yes G No 8. Will blasting occur during construction? G Yes G No TBD 9. Number of jobs generated: during construction? ±112 ; after project is complete? 0,±13 if retail is constructed. 10. Number of jobs eliminated by this project? None existing uses and jobs to be relocated. 11. Will project require relocation of any projects or facilities? Yes G No If yes, explain _Initially, ±4 commercial properties, 1 boarding house and 1 single-family home on Block Is surface liquid waste disposal involved? Yes G No a. If yes, indicate type of waste (sewage, industrial, etc.) and amount _Sewage: 14,635 gpd b. Name of water body into which effluent will be discharged _Ramapo River 13. Is subsurface liquid waste disposal involved? G Yes No Type 14. Will surface area of an existing water body increase or decrease by proposal? G Yes No Explain 15. Is project, or any portion of project, located in a 100-year flood plain? G Yes No 16. Will the project generate solid waste? Yes G No a. If yes, what is the amount per month? 11.9 tons. b. If yes, will an existing solid waste facility be used? Yes G No c. If yes, give name Rockland County Solid Waste Management Authority; location _Hillburn, NY d. Will any wastes not go into a sewage disposal system or into a sanitary landfill? G Yes No e. If Yes, explain 17. Will the project involve the disposal of solid waste? G Yes No a. If yes, what is the anticipated rate of disposal? tons/month. b. If yes, what is the anticipated site life? years. 18. Will project use herbicides or pesticides? G Yes No 19. Will project routinely produce odors (more than one hour per day)? G Yes No 20. Will project produce operating noise exceeding the local ambient noise levels? G Yes No 21. Will project result in an increase in energy use? Yes G No If yes, indicate type(s) _Electric and gas 22. If water supply is from wells, indicate pumping capacity N/A gallons/minute. 23. Total anticipated water usage per day 16,955 gallons/day. 24. Does project involve Local, State or Federal funding? Yes G No If yes, explain _Local funding for Urban Renewal Plan and Zoning Amendments 25. Approvals Required: Type Submittal Date City, Town, Village Board Yes G No Urban Renewal Plan and Zoning Amendment Approval_ City, Town, Village Planning Board Yes G No Urban Renewal Plan Approval, Zoning Amendment Referral City, Town Zoning Board G Yes G No City, County Health Department G Yes G No 4

25 Other Local Agencies G Yes G No Other Regional Agencies Yes G No Rockland County Planning Dept. Plan and Zoning Amendment Referral State Agencies Yes G No NYSDEC SPDES Permit for eventual residential development Federal Agencies G Yes G No C. ZONING AND PLANNING INFORMATION 1. Does proposed action involve a planning or zoning decision? Yes G No If Yes, indicate decision required: zoning amendment G zoning variance G special use permit G subdivision G site plan G new/revision of master plan G resource management plan other: Urban Renewal Plan adoption 2. What is the zoning classification(s) of the site? _CB Central Business 3. What is the maximum potential development of the site if developed as permitted by the present zoning? Theoretically, ±203,686 square feet of commercial use (including buildings, parking, accessory structures and impervious surfaces) could be developed. 4. What is the proposed zoning of the site? _New district MR-60 Multi-Family Residence 5. What is the maximum potential development of the site if developed as permitted by the proposed zoning? _±100 residential units and maximum 5,000 square feet of commercial use 6. Is the proposed action consistent with the recommended uses in adopted local land use plans? Yes G No 7. What are the predominant land use(s) and zoning classifications within a 1/4 mile radius of proposed action? Land Uses: commercial, multi-family and single-family residential, public, public transit, manufacturing. Zoning: CB Central Business, MR-15 Multi-Family Residence, PO-15 Professional Office, 2R-5(P), 2R-5 Two-Family Residence, M - Manufacturing 8. Is the proposed action compatible with adjoining/surrounding land uses within a 1/4 mile? Yes G No 9. If the proposed action is the subdivision of land, how many lots are proposed? _N/A a. What is the minimum lot size proposed? 10. Will proposed action require any authorization(s) for the formation of sewer or water districts? G Yes No 11. Will the proposed action create a demand for any community provided services (recreation, education, police, fire protection)? Yes G No a. If yes, is existing capacity sufficient to handle projected demand? Yes G No 12. Will the proposed action result in the generation of traffic significantly above present levels? Yes G No a. If yes, is the existing road network adequate to handle the additional traffic? Yes G No D. Informational Details Attach any additional information as may be needed to clarify your project. If there are, or may be, any adverse impacts associated with your proposal, please discuss such impacts and the measures which you propose to mitigate or avoid them. E. Verification I certify that the information provided above is true to the best of my knowledge. Applicant/Sponsor Name Village of Suffern Village Board Date Signature Title If the action is in the Coastal Area, and you are a state agency, complete the Coastal Assessment Form before proceeding with this assessment. 5

26 Part 2 PROJECT IMPACT AND THEIR MAGNITUDE Responsibility of Lead Agency General Information (Read Carefully) $ In completing the form, the reviewer should be guided by the question: Have my responses and determinations been reasonable? The reviewer is not expected to be an expert environmental analyst. $ The Examples provided are to assist the reviewer by showing types of impacts and, wherever possible, the threshold of magnitude that would trigger a response in column 2. The examples are generally applicable throughout the State and for most situations. But, for any specific project or site other examples and/or lower thresholds may be appropriate for a Potential Large Impact response, thus requiring evaluation in Part 3. $ The impacts of each project, on each site, in each locality, will vary. Therefore, the examples are illustrative and have been offered as guidance. They do not constitute an exhaustive list of impacts and thresholds to answer each question. $ The number of examples per question does not indicate the importance of each question. $ In identifying impacts, consider long term, short term and cumulative effects. Instructions (Read carefully) a. Answer each of the 20 questions in PART 2. Answer Yes if there will be any impact. b. Maybe answers should be considered as Yes answers. c. If answering Yes to a question then check the appropriate box (column 1 or 2) to indicate the potential size of the impact c. If impacts threshold equals or exceeds any examples provided, check column 2. If impact will occur, but threshold is lower than example, check column 1. d. Identifying that an Impact will be potentially large (column 2) does not mean that it is also necessarily significant. Any large impact must be evaluated in Part 3 to determine significance. Identifying an impact in column 2 simply asks that it be looked at further. e. If reviewer has doubt about size of the impact, then consider the impact as potentially large and proceed to PART 3. f. If a potentially large impact checked in column 2 can be mitigated by change(s) in the project to a small to moderate impact, also check the Yes box in column 3. A No response indicates that such a reduction is not possible. This must be explained in Part 3. IMPACT ON LAND 1 Small to Moderate Impact 2 Potential Large Impact 3 Can Impact be Mitigate by Project Change 1. Will the proposed action result in a physical change to the project site? Yes G No Examples that would apply to column 2 Any construction on slopes of 15% or greater, (15 foot rise per 100 foot of length), or where the general slopes in the project area exceed 10%. Construction on land where the depth to the water table is less than 3 G Yes G No G G feet. Construction of paved parking area for 1,000 or more vehicles. Construction on land where bedrock is exposed or generally within 3 feet G Yes G No G G of existing ground surface. Construction that will continue for more than 1 year or involve more than G Yes G No G one phase or stage. Excavation for mining purposes that would remove more than 1,000 tons G Yes G No G G of natural material (i.e., rock or soil) per year. Construction or expansion of a sanitary landfill. Construction in a designated floodway. Other impacts: Demolition of structures within designated Urban G Yes G No G Renewal Area 2. Will there be an effect to any unique or unusual land forms found on the site? (i.e. cliffs, dunes, geological formations, etc.) G Yes No Specific land forms: 6

27 IMPACT ON WATER 1 Small to Moderate Impact 2 Potential Large Impact 3 Can Impact be Mitigate by Project Change 3. Will the proposed action affect any water body designated as protected? G Yes No Examples that would apply to column 2 Developable area of site contains a protected water body. Dredging more than 100 cubic yards of material from channel of a protected stream. Extension of utility distribution facilities through a protected water body. Construction in designated freshwater or tidal wetland. Other Impacts: 4. Will proposed action affect any non-protected existing or new body of water? G Yes No Examples that would apply in column 2 A 10% increase or decrease in the surface area of any body of water or more than a 10 acre increase or decrease. Construction of a body of water that exceeds 10 acres of surface area. Other impacts: 5. Will Proposed Action affect surface or groundwater quality or quantity? Yes G No Examples that would apply to column 2 Proposed Action will require a discharge permit. G G Yes G No Proposed Action requires use of a source of water that does not have approval to serve proposed (project) action. Proposed Action requires water supply from wells with greater than 45 gallons per minute pumping capacity. Construction or operation causing any contamination of a water supply system. Proposed Action will adversely affect groundwater. Liquid effluent will be conveyed off the site to facilities which presently do no exist or have inadequate capacity. Proposed Action would use water in excess of 20,000 gallons per day. Proposed Action will likely cause siltation or other discharge into an existing body of water to the extent that there will be an obvious visual contrast to natural conditions. Proposed Action will require the storage of petroleum or chemical products greater than 1,100 gallons. Proposed Action will allow residential uses in areas without water and/or sewer services. Proposed Action locates commercial and/or industrial uses which may require new or expansion of existing waste treatment and/or storage facilities. Other impacts: 6. Will proposed action alter drainage flow or patterns, or surface water runoff? G Yes No Examples that would apply to column 2 Proposed Action would change flood water flows. 7

28 1 Small to Moderate Impact 2 Potential Large Impact 3 Can Impact be Mitigate by Project Change Proposed Action may cause substantial erosion. Proposed Action is incompatible with existing drainage patterns. Proposed Action will allow development in a designated floodway. Other impacts: IMPACT ON AIR 7. Will proposed action affect air quality? Yes G No Examples that would apply to column 2 Proposed Action will induce 1,000 or more vehicle trips in any given hour. Proposed Action will result in the incineration of more than 1 ton of refuse per hour. Emission rate of total contaminants will exceed 5 lbs. per hour or a heat source producing more than 10 million BTU s per hour. Proposed Action will an increase in the amount of land committed to industrial use. Proposed Action will allow an increase in the density of industrial development within existing industrial areas. Other impacts: Temporary, short-term impacts during demolition and construction phases. G G Yes G No IMPACT ON PLANTS AND ANIMALS 8. Will proposed Action affect any threatened or endangered species? G Yes No Examples that would apply to column 2 Reduction of one or more species listed on the New York or Federal list, using the site, over or near site, or found on the site. Removal of any portion of a critical or significant wildlife habitat. Application of pesticide or herbicide more than twice a year, other than for agricultural purposes. Other impacts: 9. Will Proposed Action substantially affect non-threatened or non-endangered species? G Yes No Examples that would apply to column 2 Proposed Action would substantially interfere with any resident or migratory fish, shellfish or wildlife species. Proposed Action requires the removal of more than 10 acres of mature forest (over years of age) or other locally important vegetation. IMPACT ON AGRICULTURAL LAND RESOURCES 10. Will the Proposed Action affect agricultural land resources? G Yes No Examples that would apply to column 2 The proposed action would sever, cross or limit access to agricultural land (includes cropland, hayfields, pasture, vineyard, orchard, etc.) 8

29 1 Small to Moderate Impact 2 Potential Large Impact 3 Can Impact be Mitigate by Project Change Construction activity would excavate or compact the soil profile of agricultural land. The proposed action would irreversibly convert more than 10 acres of agricultural land or if located in an Agricultural District, more than 2.5 acres of agricultural land. The proposed action would disrupt or prevent installation of agricultural land management systems (e.g., subsurface drain lines, outlet ditches, strip cropping); or create a need for such measures (e.g., cause a farm field to drain poorly due to increased runoff). Other impacts: IMPACTS ON AESTHETICS RESOURCES 11. Will proposed action affect aesthetic resources? Yes G No (if necessary, use the Visual EAF Addendum in Section , Appendix B.) Examples that would apply to column 2 Proposed land uses, or project components obviously different from, or in sharp contrast to current surrounding land use patterns, whether man-made or natural. Proposed land use, or project components visible to users of aesthetic resources which will eliminate, or significantly reduce, their enjoyment of the aesthetic qualities of that resource. Project components that will result in the elimination, or significant screening, of scenic views known to be more important to the area. Other impacts: Proposed Urban Renewal Plan will positively impact the overall aesthetic appearance of the study area. IMPACTS ON HISTORIC AND ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES G G Yes G No 12. Will Proposed Action impact any site or structure of historic, pre-historic or paleontological importance? G Yes No Examples that would apply to column 2 Proposed Action occurring wholly or partially within or substantially contiguous to any facility or site listed on the State or National Register of historic places. Any impact to an archeological site or fossil bed located within the project site. Proposed Action will occur in an area designated as sensitive for archeological sites on the NYS Site Inventory. Other impacts: IMPACT ON OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION 13. Will proposed action affect the quantity or quality of existing or future open spaces or recreational opportunities? G Yes No Examples that would apply to column 2 The permanent foreclosure of a future recreational opportunity. A major reduction of an open space important to the community. Other impacts: 9

30 IMPACT ON CRITICAL ENVIRONMENTAL AREAS 1 Small to Moderate Impact 2 Potential Large Impact 3 Can Impact be Mitigate by Project Change 14. Will Proposed Action impact the exceptional or unique characteristics of a critical environmental area (CEA) established pursuant to subdivision 6 NYCRR (g)? G Yes No List the environmental characteristics that caused the designation of the CEA. Examples that would apply to column 2 Proposed Action to locate within the CEA? Proposed Action will result in a reduction in the quantity of the resource? Proposed Action will result in a reduction in the quality of the resource? Proposed Action will impact the use, function or enjoyment of the resource? Other impacts: IMPACT ON TRANSPORTATION 15. Will there be an effect to existing transportation systems? Yes G No Examples that would apply to column 2 Alteration of present patterns of movement of people and/or goods. Proposed Action will result in major traffic problems. Other impacts: There will be an increase in trips generated and increase in G G Yes G No public transit usage. IMPACT ON ENERGY 16. Will the Proposed Action affect the community sources of fuel or energy supply? G Yes No Examples that would apply to column 2 The proposed action would sever, cross or limit access to agricultural land (includes cropland, hayfields, pasture, vineyard, orchard, etc.) Proposed Action will require the creation or extension of an energy transmission or supply system to serve more than 50 single or two family residences or to serve a major commercial or industrial use. Other impacts: 10