Vestal Residents Speak Out on Proposed Bunn Hill Housing Project
During a public hearing, the Vestal town board heard from many people opposed to a major residential development planned near the Binghamton University campus.
Landmark Properties of Georgia has proposed 161 apartments on a 42-acre site off Bunn Hill Road. The land, which is a short distance from the Binghamton University campus, is owned by an entity controlled by the Kradjian family.
Most of the more than two-dozen people who spoke via Zoom during the virtual hearing urged the town board to block the Retreat at Bunn Hill project.
Many of the objections centered on traffic and environmental concerns. Broome County's planning department has concluded the project would adversely affect the community.
Those who supported the development noted it would provide more tax revenue to the town and could help boost nearby Vestal businesses.
Town supervisor John Schaffer said officials will continue to review the project.
An attorney representing opponents said many people who had wished to participate in the hearing were unable to do so because of the limited accessibility on the Zoom platform.
Schaffer indicated the town board will provide an additional opportunity for public comment on the project in the future.
Some of those opposed to the Bunn Hill project have organized a group called "Responsible Vestal Zoning." The group has encouraged residents to contact Vestal town board members to express their views about the proposal.
Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com
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