The Town of Newburgh Planning Board issued preliminary and conditional final site plan approval along with Architectural Review Board approval for the project known as Overlook Farms. The decision was determined during their regular meeting at town hall on Thursday, February 2. JMC Planning Engineering Landscape Architecture & Land Surveying, PLLC have been tasked with the development of this project that is to be managed by the Farrell Communities group. Farrell Communities currently manages the Gardnertown Commons complex in the town.
The proposed development project features 203 new multi-family apartments in 20 new constructed structures on 32.71 acres of previously owned farmland. The Overlook Farm Market site was included in the identified acreage. The market served as a local staple in the Newburgh community for many years till its closure. In addition to the development and community amenities, a proposed retail space was to be constructed on the site but no tenant was identified for the space.
On July 7, 2022, a public hearing was held at the town hall to address public comments and additional concerns from residents. Comments addressed the increase in the traffic flow of the surrounding area. Route 9W runs adjacent to the neighborhood and is regularly used.
The planning board conducted its architectural review of the site which proposed a red, white, and dark gray color palette to mimic the color schemes of upstate New York farmhouses and barns. The retail space and amenities such as a clubhouse are also included to follow the similar color scheme. Several of the buildings will include built-in garages with charging stations proposed and several buildings will be built into the landscape. Several comments from board members re-emphasized the need to redesign the buildings with more accents to not make them look simple, while other comments were not in favor of the overall design and colors.
Patrick Hines of MHE Engineering addressed the planning board with comments regarding floodplain impact with proposed movement to the retail space; water main approvals needed from the Orange County Department of Health, a Stormwater Facilities Maintenance Agreement must be filed with the Town Board and approved, a construction phasing plan is required, fire department comments should be received and a tree preservation plan has been filed with the town.