HomeMy WebLinkAboutCU Meinig Fieldhouse PB Packet - SEQR comments 2-20-24DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING
215 N. Tioga St 14850
607.273.1747
www.town.ithaca.ny.us
TO: Planning Board Members
FROM: Christine Balestra, Senior Planner
DATE: February 13, 2024
RE: Cornell University Meinig Fieldhouse Indoor Sports and Recreation Center Project –
Discussion of Full Environmental Assessment Form (EAF) and proposed SEQR
comment letter to City Planning & Development Board (PDB)
Enclosed please find two documents related to the Cornell Meinig Fieldhouse project:
1. Draft Full EAF Part 3, written by City of Ithaca Planning staff on behalf of the City of Ithaca PDB
2. Draft SEQR comment letter to the City PDB, containing comments related to the Full EAF
The Planning Board received a large packet of materials, including the Full EAF Part 1, to consider for
the Meinig Fieldhouse project at the sketch plan meeting on January 16, 2024. The Board issued
concurrence with the City PDB being the Lead Agency in the environmental review of the project at
that meeting. The City PDB formally declared themselves the Lead Agency on January 23, 2024.
The anticipated action at the February 20th meeting is the Town Planning Board review of all project
submittals (including previously received materials) and to provide feedback, comments, and
corrections on the Full EAF and draft SEQR comment letter. The Board could complete the review on
February 20th, or extend the review to the March 5th meeting, if there are many outstanding
comments or issues that require additional information.
Please feel free to contact me by phone at (607) 273-1721 or by email at
cbalestra@town.ithaca.ny.us if you have questions before the meeting.
Att.
Cc: Elisabete Godden, Project Manager, Cornell University Facilities and Campus Services
Kimberly Michaels, Director of Landscape Architects, TWM, a Fisher Associates Landscape Architecture Studio
Lisa Nicholas, Director of Planning and Economic Development, City of Ithaca
Leslie Schill, Director of Campus Planning, Cornell University, Office of the University Architect
TOWN OF ITHACA
NEW YORK
Planning Board
February 21, 2024
Mitch Glass, Chair
City of Ithaca Planning & Development Board
108 East Green Street
Ithaca, NY 14850
Dear Mr. Glass,
The Town of Ithaca Planning Board is an Involved Agency in the environmental review of the
proposed Cornell University Meinig Fieldhouse project. The Board has reviewed the project’s Full
Environmental Assessment Form Part 1, along with the associated project materials. We offer the
following comments and recommendations for the City of Ithaca Planning & Development Board, as
Lead Agency in the environmental review, to consider as they determine the environmental
significance of the Meinig Fieldhouse project.
§6 NYCRR Part 617.7 of the New York State Environmental Quality Review regulations requires that
the Lead Agency in an environmental review of a Type I or Unlisted Action determine the significance
of a proposed action. In order to require an environmental impact statement (EIS) for an action, the
lead agency must determine that the action may include the potential for at least one significant
adverse environmental impact upon the environment.
The Town of Ithaca Planning Board met on February 20, 2024, to make a recommendation to the City
of Ithaca Planning & Development Board (PDB) on whether the Cornell Meinig Fieldhouse project
could have the potential for at least one significant adverse environmental impact. Planning Board
members were unanimous in their opinion that the project did not rise to the level of potential
significant adverse environmental impacts, and thus recommend that the Lead Agency issue a
negative declaration of environmental significance.
The Town of Ithaca Planning Board asks the Lead Agency to carefully consider the following
comments in their review of the Full Environmental Assessment Form:
1. Impact on Energy - Page 7, item “k” (Part 1): This item asks if the proposed action will generate
new or additional demand for energy. The applicant states that the section is “not applicable.”
Although the project is not technically a commercial or industrial project, it is of a significant
scale to warrant an answer related to energy usage. It is presumed that the proposed 90,000+/-
square foot enclosed fieldhouse structure will utilize energy for heating, cooling, and lighting.
The outdoor field and surrounding parking areas and site improvements wi ll also utilize energy
for lighting. The sketch plan materials indicate that there will be no natural gas connections in
^TOWN OF ITHACA
NEW YORK,r|m
111 21
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the proposed building; and that the project will utilize Cornell’s district heating system. This
information, along with more specific estimates related to energy usage, should be added to “k.”
Additionally, the Town and City of Ithaca municipalities have Energy Code Supplements (ECS)
that require compliance; both have checklists that may be used by applicants to confirm how a
project will comply with the ECS. Although the details are usually provided during the building
permit process, the Town of Ithaca Planning Board often requests information at the
environmental review stage relative to anticipated compliance paths including which compliance
points will be earned (e.g., will the building be constructed with rooftop solar capabilities in
mind? Will the project utilize heat pumps?) The City PDB may consider requesting more detailed
ECS information for their environmental review of this project.
2. Impact on Transportation (general)– The applicant states that the focus of this project is to
provide student practice space for field hockey, lacrosse, and club sports. The Town Planning
Board does not anticipate that this project will create a significant amount of vehicular traffic,
even with occasional lacrosse games being played at the new fieldhouse. The project appears to
include upgrades to existing bicycle and pedestrian networks and connections to multimodal
networks on campus. With a 300-person spectator limit, there is adequate vehicular parking
provided for such events in the lots on Tower Road and in other areas of campus. There will be a
loss of several parking spaces on the Town of Ithaca side of the project to accommodate the
project, and there may not be adequate ADA accessible parking spaces. The City PDB may
consider requesting information on the impacts of the project on campus transportation demand
management.
3. Consistency with Community Plans (general)– The project will require area variances from the
Town Zoning Board of Appeals, the details of which will be enumerated in a separate letter from
the Town Code Enforcement Department. The Town of Ithaca does not have an Institutional
Zone; and institutions of higher learning (Cornell University, Ithaca College) are currently zoned
Low or Medium Density Residential. The proposed Meinig Fieldhouse building height exceeds
the height permitted in the Low Density Residential Zone. However, it is not expected to create
significant adverse visual impacts, considering that: (a) there are no locally or regionally
recognized scenic resources or vistas that will be impacted by the proposed, (b) it is typical for a
university campus to contain buildings that are taller than residences, and (c) the proposed
Meinig Fieldhouse building will be surrounded by much taller structures; thus, its height will not
be out of character with the height of surrounding structures.
4. Stormwater Management (general) – All stormwater management structures, facilities, and
other items must conform with New York State and/or Department of Environmental
Conservation rules and regulations. The Town of Ithaca and City of Ithaca Engineering
Departments will ensure that the proposed stormwater management systems and devices will
meet all applicable requirements. The Town of Ithaca Planning Board expects to condition any
town-approvals related to stormwater management during the site plan review process to
require compliance with these requirements. Therefore, the Board does not consider impacts
related to stormwater management as having the potential for significant adverse environmental
impacts.
3
5. Lighting, Landscaping, Other Site Layout Elements (general) – The Town of Ithaca Planning
Board will review site plan elements like lighting and landscaping as part of the town site plan
review process. Town Code Chapter 173 contains dark-sky compliant, outdoor lighting provisions
for which any outdoor lighting located in the town-portion of the project must comply. The
Planning Board generally requests that bollard and pole-mounted lights are set at a maximum
3000K LED color temperature (this would not be applicable to field/stadium lights). The Board is
pleased that the Big Red and Arthur red-tailed hawk nesting site (located on the unpowered,
existing light pole(s) along the northern edge of the existing parking lot) is being carefully
considered and will remain undisturbed.
In terms of landscaping, the plans provided by the applicant appear to be underdeveloped for an
environmental review. It is reasonable for the applicant to provide more robust landscaping
plantings around the project to assist with stormwater runoff mitigation, sustainability efforts,
and visual/aesthetic enhancement of the project.
Thank you for providing us with the opportunity to comment on this important project. If you have
any questions, please contact C.J. Randall, Director of Planning, by email at
cjrandall@town.ithaca.ny.us or Christine Balestra, Senior Planner, at cbalestra@town.ithaca.ny.us ,
or either by phone at (607)273-1747.
Sincerely,
Fred T. Wilcox III, Chair
On behalf of the Town of Ithaca Planning Board
City of Ithaca FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM – Part III Project Name: Cornell University Meinig Fieldhouse Indoor Sports and Recreation Facility Date Created: 01/30/24 Updated 02/05/24, 02/12/24 1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION The applicant proposes to construct the Meinig Fieldhouse, an indoor sports and recreation center of approximately 90,000 SF on the existing Robison Alumni Fields which is composed of natural grass and artificial turf fields, sidewalks, spectator viewing areas, and parking lots. The Meinig Fieldhouse will accommodate a field that will be programmed to support NCAA requirements for women and men lacrosse competitions; a varsity soccer pitch and/or varsity football field for practices; and the facility will host campus recreation, club, and intramural sport teams. The proposed building will also include a mechanical room, restrooms, a training room, and storage on the ground floor; two team rooms, restrooms, an area for elevated filming and mechanical spaces on the second level mezzanine accessible by both stairs and elevator; and on each level an area for a limited number of spectators. The project is located in central campus and the limit of disturbance is proposed to be approximately 7 acres in total, with 5.8 acres in the City and 1.2 acres in the Town of Ithaca. The project site is located in the U-1 Zoning District in the City of Ithaca and will require no variances and is located in the Low-Density Residential Zoning District in the Town of Ithaca and will require variances in the town. This has been determined to be a Type 1 Action under the City of Ithaca Environmental Quality Review Ordinance §176-4 B.1(b), (n), and 8(a), and the State Environmental Quality Review Act (“SEQRA”) §617.4 b. (11) and is subject to environmental review. IMPACT ON LAND Total area to be excavated & maximum depth Site Demolition Plan New Geotechnical Report The project is located on a tax parcel in the City of Ithaca approximately 147-acres and located on a parcel in the Town of Ithaca approximately 31 acres. The limit of disturbance, and the project site itself is approximately 7.3 acres, with 5.8 acres in the City and 1.2 acres in the Town. The project site is a previously developed, relatively flat site located in the Cornell University central campus. The project site is bounded by Tower Road on the north, Weill Hall on the west, Bartels Hall and parking lot to the south, and the Robert J. Kane Sports Complex Field on the east. The site currently has a black chain link fence along the entire perimeter enclosing an open natural turf area in the western portion and an existing artificial turf field, Robison Alumni Fields, on the eastern portion. Project implementation will require the demolition of the grass fields and the associated utilities, and infrastructure. Construction is expected to last approximately 16 months. The proposed 90,000 SF building will be located in the SE section of the approximate 305,000 SF project site, with a building footprint approximately 2.1 acres The total area of disturbance for the proposed building and associated improvements is 7.3 acres. The area of impervious surface will increase from the existing 2.3 acres to proposed 5.6 acres, for a net increase of 3.3 acres of impervious surfaces. According to the application, no material will be removed from the site; all excavated materials will remain on site.
City of Ithaca FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM – Part III Project Name: Cornell University Meinig Fieldhouse Indoor Sports and Recreation Facility Date Created: 01/30/24 Updated 02/05/24, 02/12/24 2 In the Report of Subsurface Exploration and Geotechnical Engineering Evaluation dated March 27, 2019 prepared by WMA Engineering, DPC/dba, Empire Geotechnical Engineering Services, the engineers determined the site to be suitable for the proposed structure at that time which was a pre-engineered metal building or an air-inflated structure “using conventional shallow spread foundations.” The Lead Agency has determined that based on the information above, no significant impact to land is anticipated. IMPACT ON GEOLOGIC FEATURES The site is in a previously developed area at Cornell University with no geologic features present. The Lead Agency has determined that based on this information, no significant impact on geologic features is anticipated. IMPACT ON SURFACE WATER Rain Garden- details The site does not contain surface water features. The natural turf fields generally drain towards the west over <2% gentle slopes and the artificial turf field/field hockey field generally pitches to the south. The proposed building is approximately 90,000 SF and replaces an existing artificial turf field hockey field and associated amenities. A synthetic turf field of 72,000 SF is proposed to the west of the building and will be built in accordance with International Hockey Federation (FIH) guidelines. According to the FEAF I submitted by the applicant, the net change in impervious materials will be an increase from the existing 2.3 acres to proposed 5.6 acres impervious surfaces. A total increase of approximately 3.3 acres of impervious surfaces. The applicants propose, “Stormwater drainage improvements in support of the proposed building and artificial turf field will include a system of drainage inlets, manholes, underdrains, roof leader connections, and swales. Drainage patterns will remain consistent with the existing conditions to the maximum extent possible.” (Site Plan Review Application Report, 12/15/23). As well, the Report further elaborates the stormwater systems: Runoff from the proposed building and artificial turf field will be conveyed to a single below grade detention system with the required volume to detain the 1% chance storm event. This system will use manufactured chamber units encased in an envelope of stone and be located underneath the turf field. Diversion structures will be placed upstream of the detention system to direct runoff from low flow events to the system’s pretreatment “isolator rows”. Higher flow events will bypass the isolator rows and enter the system directly. An outlet control structure will be installed downstream of the system to ensure discharge rates do not exceed the existing conditions. Water quality treatment, including both the required water quality volume (WQv) and runoff reduction volume (RRv), will be provided by means of infiltration. Permeability testing will be performed in accordance with the NYSDEC Stormwater Design Manual. A bioretention filter located in the open space north of the building will provide additional WQv treatment as well as contribute to (RRv). Additional WQv will be provided by a Hydrodynamic Separator which will treat runoff collected from adjacent impervious areas. All of
City of Ithaca FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM – Part III Project Name: Cornell University Meinig Fieldhouse Indoor Sports and Recreation Facility Date Created: 01/30/24 Updated 02/05/24, 02/12/24 3 the proposed permanent stormwater management practices will be located within the City of Ithaca. The total area of disturbance is greater than 1 acre, so the project team will submit a Full SWPPP, including erosion and sediment control practices during construction to the City of Ithaca in order to comply with NYSDEC regulations. Therefore, based on the information above and complete adherence to an accepted SWPPP, the Lead Agency has determined that no significant impact to surface water is anticipated. IMPACT ON GROUNDWATER New Geotechnical Report The proposal is a project in a previously developed area of natural and artificial turf and as such does not include operational activities that impact groundwater. The average depth to the water table on the project site is approximately greater than 24 ft. According to Report of Subsurface Exploration and Geotechnical Engineering Evaluation dated March 27, 2019 prepared by WMA Engineering, DPC/dba, Empire Geotechnical Engineering Services, groundwater was not encountered in three separate boreholes on the project site, ranging in depth from 24.4 ft to 30.7 ft. It is unlikely that groundwater will be encountered during construction. Any groundwater encountered during excavation will be handled in accordance with all state and local laws. The Lead Agency has determined that based on the information above, no significant impact to groundwater is anticipated. IMPACT ON FLOODING The project site is not located in a flood zone, and it is not near any waterbody that may contribute to flooding. The Lead Agency has determined that based on the information above, no significant impact on flooding is anticipated. IMPACTS ON AIR According to information provided by the applicant, construction is projected to last approximately 16 months. Excavation and preparation of foundations additionally create the potential for increased airborne dust and dirt particles. Impacts to air quality will be limited to the period associated with construction activities. During construction, the applicant will employ the following applicable dust control measures, as appropriate: • Misting or fog spraying the site to minimize dust; • Maintaining crushed stone tracking pads at all entrances to the construction site; • Re-seeding disturbed areas to minimize bare exposed soils; • Keeping roads clear of dust and debris; • Requiring construction trucks to be covered; and • Prohibiting burning of debris on site.
City of Ithaca FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM – Part III Project Name: Cornell University Meinig Fieldhouse Indoor Sports and Recreation Facility Date Created: 01/30/24 Updated 02/05/24, 02/12/24 4 The Lead Agency has determined that with the mitigation measures during construction identified above, no significant impact to air is anticipated. IMPACTS ON PLANTS AND ANIMALS Existing Trees Tree(s) Preservation Demolition Plan- trees to be removed Planting Plan Construction around Red-tailed Hawk nesting season- March-June- expert opinion The project site is in a previously developed area located south of Tower Road and is bordered by Weill Hall on the west, Bartels Hall and a parking lot to the south, and the Robert J. Kane Sports Complex Field on the east. The 7.3-acre project site has an existing artificial turf field hockey field on the eastern portion and natural turf fields on the eastern side. On the southern side of the project is a row of deciduous trees, which includes species. Wildlife likely to be encountered on or near the project site include invertebrates, small mammals, and birds including red-tailed hawks who nest on the sports lighting poles. The applicants propose to plant meadow grasses, a rain garden, native trees, and native shrubs. They expect to have a net addition of trees to the project site. The applicants will also maintain the two existing sports lighting poles that serve as nesting locations to a pair of red-tailed hawks. The Lead Agency has determined that based on the information above, no significant impact on plants and animals is anticipated. IMPACT ON AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES The project site is not in or adjacent to an agricultural area, therefore, the Lead Agency has determined no significant impact to agricultural resources is anticipated. IMPACT ON AESTHETIC RESOURCES According to the Tompkins County Scenic Resource Views, there are no scenic resources located adjacent to or in vicinity of the Project Site. Additionally, there are no locally identified scenic resources located near the project site. The proposed building will be a mixture of materials composed mainly of metal panels installed horizontally and angled glazed storefront windows at each corner of the building to provide views in and out and allow natural light into the sports center. The proposed artificial field hockey field to the west will fit in with the Kane field complex to the east. The applicants propose natural landscape spaces around the building. The building and site materials will be further reviewed during the site plan review. Based on the information above, the Lead Agency has determined that no significant impacts to aesthetic resources is anticipated. IMPACT ON HISTORIC AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES
City of Ithaca FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM – Part III Project Name: Cornell University Meinig Fieldhouse Indoor Sports and Recreation Facility Date Created: 01/30/24 Updated 02/05/24, 02/12/24 5 The site is not located within a historic district, and the existing site is not designated at the local or state level as an historic resource. There closest historic building is Fernow Hall which is located approximately 350’ to the north of the project site, while historic districts are located over 1700’ from the project site. Based on the information provided above, the Lead Agency has determined no significant impact on historic and archaeological resources is anticipated. IMPACT ON OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION The project site is located on a previously developed area on the Cornell campus. The site is surrounded by other athletic fields and university buildings with athletic functions. The proposed building, landscape, pedestrian, and bicycle amenities fit into the context of the existing space in this part of central campus. As a result of the information provided above, the Lead Agency has determined that no significant impact to open space and recreation is anticipated. IMPACT ON CRITICAL ENVIRONMENTAL AREAS There are no critical environmental areas located within the City of Ithaca. However, Tompkins County identifies Unique Natural Areas (“UNAs”) throughout the county, which are part of the landscape that has outstanding geological and environmental qualities, such as special natural communities, or plants and animals that are rare or scarce elsewhere in the county or region. A UNA is not a regulatory designation and does not provide legal protection for an area but signals that special resources may exist that require project modification. The closest UNA to the project site is UNA 136, Cascadilla Creek Gorge, separated from the project site by access roads, buildings, Campus Road, and Hoy Road. The building is not visible from the gorge. As a result of the information provided above the Lead Agency has determined no significant impact to Critical Environmental Areas is anticipated. IMPACT ON TRANSPORTATION Pedestrians & Cyclists The applicants propose many pedestrian paths through the site and around the perimeters of the proposed building and proposed artificial turf filed. These paths will be asphalt and concrete, a minimum of six feet wide, and will connect with the existing pedestrian network. Other amenities include precast concrete seat walls, cast-in-place concrete stairs, stainless steel railings and guardrails, and a black vinyl chain link fence with appropriate gates along the hockey field perimeter. According to the Site Plan Review Application Report prepared by the applicants on 12/15/23, “36 bicycle parking spaces will be provided on-site, separated into three bicycle parking facilities, located adjacent to the main north and south entrances to the Meinig Fieldhouse. Bicycle parking facilities will be easily accessible from pedestrian or fire access pathways and not intrude into these walkways.” Vehicular & Fire Access More dedicated ADA parking spaces?
City of Ithaca FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM – Part III Project Name: Cornell University Meinig Fieldhouse Indoor Sports and Recreation Facility Date Created: 01/30/24 Updated 02/05/24, 02/12/24 6 Construction Logistics and Staging Diagrams The project will not add any new parking spaces, however there are adjacent parking lots that can serve the proposed building. Adjacent to the north of the project sit is the Alumni Lot which has 225 spaces 3 of which are permanent ADA parking spaces and to the south of the project is the Bartels Lot which has 80 parking spaces. The new facility is expected to be used primarily by students, so there will be little demand for parking. According to the applicant, in the Site Plan Review Application Report prepared 12/15/23: The project site will be accessible to fire and emergency vehicles from four points. Two 20-feet wide angled curbs are proposed to the north of the Meinig Fieldhouse structure from the Alumni Field parking lot, and two 20-feet wide flush curbs are proposed to the south of the structure, from the parking area adjacent to the Friedman Wrestling Center. A continuous pathway of minimum 20 feet width is proposed around the entire perimeter of the Meinig Fieldhouse structure, allowing access for fire apparatus. The pathway along the north side of the Meinig Fieldhouse structure is proposed to be 26 feet wide, offset from the building facade between 15 feet and 30 feet to accommodate fire apparatus aerial access. The northernmost lane of the existing parking area adjacent to the Friedman Wrestling Center (20 feet minimum width) will serve fire apparatus access along a portion of the southern access route. A paved point of access at the northeast corner of the exterior turf field will provide access onto the playing surface for emergency vehicles. The Fire Apparatus Access Routes sheet and Vehicle Tracking diagrams are provided in the technical drawing set under separate cover. Construction Related Impacts Construction is expected to take approximately 16 months, and the applicants anticipate the third quarter in 2025 to be the busiest time of construction, with a maximum of 80 workers expected on site in a single day. “Construction vehicles will be directed to access the site via a prescribed route from Tower Road for new field work and from Campus Road for the building work.” (Site Plan Application Report, 12/15/23). As for utility work, Tower Road will need to be closed for two weeks during the summer and rerouting traffic will be necessary, and two parking lots, one south of Tower Road and North of Campus Rd will need to be closed for approximately two weeks. The existing sidewalks will be demolished and reconstructed, so pedestrian traffic will be rerouted to the south of Bartels Hall to the existing sidewalk along Campus Rd and rerouted to remain on the existing sidewalk between Weill Hall and the Biotechnology Building. As a result of the information provided above, the Lead Agency has determined that no significant impact on traffic is anticipated. IMPACT ON ENERGY On August 4, 2021, the Ithaca Energy Code Supplement (IECS) went into effect for all new buildings constructed in Ithaca. The IECS prioritizes electrification, renewable energy, and affordability with the following objectives: “deliver measurable and immediate reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from new buildings, major renovations, and new additions; promote best practices in the design of affordable buildings to deliver reduced GHG emissions; and provide a rapid but orderly transition to buildings that do not use fossil fuels for major
City of Ithaca FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM – Part III Project Name: Cornell University Meinig Fieldhouse Indoor Sports and Recreation Facility Date Created: 01/30/24 Updated 02/05/24, 02/12/24 7 building energy needs such as space heating and hot water heating, by 2026. For construction subject to the Ithaca Energy Code Supplement, requirements for reductions in GHGs go into effect in three steps: 2021, 2023, and 2026.” From August 4, 2021, until 2023 all new buildings must produce 40% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than the Energy Conservation Construction Code of New York State requires. Beginning in 2023, the IECS will increase the requirements of new construction to produce 80% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than the Energy Conservation Construction Code of New York State requires, and by 2026 all newly constructed buildings in Ithaca will be required to be net-zero buildings that do not use fossil fuels. The IECS supports Ithaca’s Green New Deal which aims to “achieve an equitable transition to carbon-neutrality” community-wide by 2030. The Building Division will oversee implementation and enforcement of the IECS. As a result, from the information provided above, the Lead Agency has determined that no significant impact to energy is anticipated. IMPACT ON NOISE, ODOR & LIGHT Based on information provided by the applicant construction will last approximately 16 months. The project is in a developed area on Cornell campus. Noise producing construction activities, especially foundation work, will temporarily affect residents in the immediate area. The exterior lighting will be LED and dark sky compliant. The interior lighting will utilize an LED system, and daylight and occupancy-based control systems where required. Noise producing construction activities will temporarily impact residents in the immediate area. Noise producing construction activities will be limited to the hours between 7:30 A.M. and 5:30 P.M., Monday through Friday (or Saturday 9:00 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. with advance notification to and approval by the Director of Planning and Development). As a result of this information, the Lead Agency has determined no significant impact on noise, odor, and light is anticipated. IMPACT ON HUMAN HEALTH Artificial Turf- both the demolition and disposal of existing and proposed artificial turf The project site has no reported spills in the NYDEC Spills Incidents database or in the Environmental Remediation database. As a result of this information, the Lead Agency has determined no significant impact to human health is anticipated. CONSISTENCY WITH COMMUNITY PLANS Justification/mitigation for variances needed from the Town The project is consistent with the City of Ithaca’s Comprehensive Plan as this building is in support of Secondary Education. The project site is located in the U-1 Zoning District where the primary use is Post-Secondary Education. The project will require no variances with the City.
City of Ithaca FULL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM – Part III Project Name: Cornell University Meinig Fieldhouse Indoor Sports and Recreation Facility Date Created: 01/30/24 Updated 02/05/24, 02/12/24 8 The project site is also located in the Low-Density Residential (LDR) Zoning District in the Town of Ithaca. The project is an allowed use with a special use permit in the LDR zone as part of an institution of higher learning. The project will require an area variance from the Town of Ithaca Zoning Boards of Appeals as the height of the proposed building is approximately 56’ from average grade plan and LDR limits building height to 38 feet below interior grade or 36’ below exterior grade. The project will also require an area variance for lot coverage as it adds approximately .5 acres of building footprint on the Town of Ithaca parcel, 67.-1-13.2. As a result of this information, the Lead Agency has determined no significant impact to consistency with community plans is anticipated. CONSISTENCY WITH COMMUNITY CHARACTER The project is a sports facility building, with a footprint of approximately 2.1 acres and approximately 90,000 SF of space that will provide. The proposed facility will support students and the campus with indoor practice and competition space for athletics, recreation needs and club sports. The proposed building is located in a part of central campus that has several athletic facilities and fields, fitting in functionally to the surrounding character. The proposed building is designed to “embrace the spirit of outdoor play indoors.” This is achieved through the materiality of the proposed building (Site Plan Review Application Report, 12/15/23): The majority of the building envelope is composed of insulated metal panel installed horizontally and decreasing in width from the bottom of the facade to the top. The metal panel finish is paired in contrast with angled glazed storefront at each of the four corners. The large triangle shaped glazed openings provide views in and out of the facility and incorporate natural light into the activity space. The proposed building will be flanked by athletic fields, with the proposed artificial turf field hockey field situated to the west and the existing the Kane Sports Complex Field situated to the east of the building. Based on the information provided above, the Lead Agency has determined no significant impact on community character is anticipated. Prepared by: Nikki Cerra, Environmental & Landscape Planner and revised by the Planning Board
31
Full Environmental
Assessment Form
The following contains the Full EAF Part 1,
previously received by the PB for sketch review.
It's being included in the digital packet because
Town Planning staff has a recommended correction
on page 7, item "k"
Page 1 of 13
Full Environmental Assessment Form
Part 1 - Project and Setting
Instructions for Completing Part 1
Part 1 is to be completed by the applicant or project sponsor. Responses become part of the application for approval or funding,
are subject to public review, and may be subject to further verification.
Complete Part 1 based on information currently available. If additional research or investigation would be needed to fully respond to
any item, please answer as thoroughly as possible based on current information; indicate whether missing information does not exist,
or is not reasonably available to the sponsor;and,when possible, generally describe work or studies which would be necessary to
update or fully develop that information.
Applicants/sponsors must complete all items in Sections A & B. In Sections C, D & E,most items contain an initial question that
must be answered either “Yes”or “No”.If the answer to the initial question is “Yes”, complete the sub-questions that follow. If the
answer to the initial question is “No”,proceed to the next question.Section F allows the project sponsor to identify and attach any
additional information. Section G requires the name and signature of the applicant or project sponsor to verify that the information
contained in Part 1is accurate and complete.
A.Project and Applicant/Sponsor Information.
Name of Action or Project:
Project Location (describe, and attach a general location map):
Brief Description of Proposed Action (include purpose or need):
Name of Applicant/Sponsor: Telephone:
E-Mail:
Address:
City/PO: State:Zip Code:
Project Contact (if not same as sponsor; give name and title/role): Telephone:
E-Mail:
Address:
City/PO:State: Zip Code:
Property Owner (if not same as sponsor): Telephone:
E-Mail:
Address:
City/PO:State: Zip Code:
FEAF 2019
Cornell University Meinig Fieldhouse
Robison Alumni Fields -239 Tower Road,Ithaca,NY 14850;Tompkins County;City Parcel 500700-31.-1-1.2;Town Parcel 503089-67.-1-13.2
Cornell University is proposing to construct the Meinig Fieldhouse,an indoor sports and recreation center that will support students and campus with
much-needed indoor practice and competition space for athletics,club sports,and recreation needs.The project site is on the central campus,in the area
currently occupied by Robison Alumni Fields,with Tower Road to the north,Robert J.Kane Sports Complex Field to the east,and Weill Hall to the west.
The proposed facility will enable year-round practice space and play for many field sports,and limited competition for NCAA lacrosse in early spring
months.The facility will be a 90,000 square foot building that is 56’feet tall.Cornell’s existing Marsha Dodson Field Hockey pitch will be relocated to the
west,providing the field hockey athletes with a new synthetic turf field.
Kimberly Michaels
607.227.1400
kam@twm.la
1001 W.Seneca Street,Suite 201
Ithaca NY 14850
Elisabete Godden,Project Manager
607.255.2478
egodden@cornell.edu
102 Humphreys Service Building
Ithaca NY 14853
Cornell University
Page 2 of 13
B. Government Approvals
B.Government Approvals, Funding, or Sponsorship.(“Funding” includes grants, loans, tax relief,and any other forms of financial
assistance.)
Government Entity If Yes: Identify Agency and Approval(s)
Required
Application Date
(Actual or projected)
a.City Counsel, Town Board,9 Yes 9 No
or Village Board of Trustees
b. City, Town or Village 9 Yes 9 No
Planning Board or Commission
c.City, Town or 9 Yes 9 No
Village Zoning Board of Appeals
d. Other local agencies 9 Yes 9 No
e. County agencies 9 Yes 9 No
f. Regional agencies 9 Yes 9 No
g. State agencies 9 Yes 9 No
h. Federal agencies 9 Yes 9 No
i. Coastal Resources.
i.Is the project site within a Coastal Area, or the waterfront area of a Designated Inland Waterway?9 Yes 9 No
ii.Is the project site located in a community with an approved Local Waterfront Revitalization Program?9 Yes 9 No
iii. Is the project site within a Coastal Erosion Hazard Area?9 Yes 9 No
C. Planning and Zoning
C.1. Planning and zoning actions.
Will administrative or legislative adoption, or amendment of a plan, local law, ordinance, rule or regulation be the 9 Yes 9 No
only approval(s) which must be granted to enable the proposed action to proceed?
•If Yes, complete sections C, F and G.
•If No, proceed to question C.2 and complete all remaining sections and questions in Part 1
C.2. Adopted land use plans.
a. Do any municipally- adopted (city, town, village or county) comprehensive land use plan(s) include the site 9 Yes 9 No
where the proposed action would be located?
If Yes, does the comprehensive plan include specific recommendations for the site where the proposed action 9 Yes 9 No
would be located?
b.Is the site of the proposed action within any local or regional special planning district (for example:Greenway;9 Yes 9 No
Brownfield Opportunity Area (BOA); designated State or Federal heritage area; watershed management plan;
or other?)
If Yes, identify the plan(s):
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
c. Is the proposed action located wholly or partially within an area listed in an adopted municipal open space plan, 9 Yes 9 No
or an adopted municipal farmland protection plan?
If Yes, identify the plan(s):
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
City of Ithaca Planning Board (SEQR and SPR),
Town of Ithaca PB (SEQR,Special Permit,SPR)
Winter 2024
Town of Ithaca Zoning Board (Height Variance
and Lot Coverage)
Winter 2024
City of Ithaca MS4:SWPPP Acceptance,Town of
Ithaca MS4:SWPPP Acceptance
Winter -Spring 2024
Tompkins County Planning (GML 239 Review),Tompkins County
Health Department (backflow prevention device approval)Winter -Spring 2024
NYSDEC for SWPPP Winter -Spring 2024
Page 3 of 13
C.3. Zoning
a. Is the site of the proposed action located in a municipality with an adopted zoning law or ordinance.9 Yes 9 No
If Yes, what is the zoning classification(s) including any applicable overlay district?
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
b. Is the use permitted or allowed by a special or conditional use permit?9 Yes 9 No
c. Is a zoning change requested as part of the proposed action?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes,
i.What is the proposed new zoning for the site? ___________________________________________________________________
C.4. Existing community services.
a. In what school district is the project site located? ________________________________________________________________
b. What police or other public protection forces serve the project site?
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
c. Which fire protection and emergency medical services serve the project site?
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
d. What parks serve the project site?
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
D. Project Details
D.1. Proposed and Potential Development
a. What is the general nature of the proposed action (e.g., residential, industrial, commercial, recreational; if mixed, include all
components)?
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
b. a. Total acreage of the site of the proposed action?_____________ acres
b. Total acreage to be physically disturbed?_____________ acres
c. Total acreage (project site and any contiguous properties) owned
or controlled by the applicant or project sponsor?_____________ acres
c. Is the proposed action an expansion of an existing project or use?9 Yes 9 No
i.If Yes, what is the approximate percentage of the proposed expansion and identify the units (e.g., acres, miles, housing units,
square feet)? % ____________________ Units: ____________________
d. Is the proposed action a subdivision, or does it include a subdivision?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes,
i.Purpose or type of subdivision? (e.g., residential, industrial, commercial; if mixed, specify types)
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
ii. Is a cluster/conservation layout proposed?9 Yes 9 No
iii.Number of lots proposed? ________
iv.Minimum and maximum proposed lot sizes? Minimum __________ Maximum __________
9 Yes 9 No
_____ months
_____
_____ month _____ year
e.Will the proposed action be constructed in multiple phases?
i.If No, anticipated period of construction:
ii.If Yes:
•Total number of phases anticipated
•Anticipated commencement date of phase 1 (including demolition)
•Anticipated completion date of final phase _____ month _____year
•Generally describe connections or relationships among phases, including any contingencies where progress of one phase may
determine timing or duration of future phases: _______________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Town -LDR,Low Density Residential
City -U1,University
Ithaca City School District
Cornell University Police,Ithaca Police
Cornell University Fire and Life Safety,Ithaca Fire Department Station 2,Cornell University Emergency Medical Service
There are multiple green space areas nearby, including Cornell Botanic Gardens, Minns Garden, Rockwell Azalea Garden, Libe Slope, and other green spaces on campus.
7.3
7.3
7.3
16
Institutional,recreational
Page 4 of 13
f. Does the project include new residential uses?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes, show numbers of units proposed.
One Family Two Family Three Family Multiple Family (four or more)
Initial Phase ___________ ___________ ____________ ________________________
At completion
of all phases ___________ ___________ ____________ ________________________
g. Does the proposed action include new non-residential construction (including expansions)?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes,
i. Total number of structures ___________
ii.Dimensions (in feet) of largest proposed structure: ________height; ________width; and _______ length
iii.Approximate extent of building space to be heated or cooled: ______________________ square feet
h. Does the proposed action include construction or other activities that will result in the impoundment of any 9 Yes 9 No
liquids, such as creation of a water supply, reservoir, pond, lake, waste lagoon or other storage?
If Yes,
i.Purpose of the impoundment: ________________________________________________________________________________
ii.If a water impoundment, the principal source of the water: 9 Ground water 9 Surface water streams 9 Other specify:
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
iii.If other than water, identify the type of impounded/contained liquids and their source.
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
iv.Approximate size of the proposed impoundment. Volume: ____________ million gallons; surface area: ____________ acres
v.Dimensions of the proposed dam or impounding structure: ________ height; _______ length
vi.Construction method/materials for the proposed dam or impounding structure (e.g., earth fill, rock, wood, concrete):
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
D.2. Project Operations
a. Does the proposed action include any excavation, mining, or dredging, during construction, operations, or both? 9 Yes 9 No
If Yes:
ii.How much material (including rock, earth, sediments, etc.) is proposed to be removed from the site?
•Volume (specify tons or cubic yards): ____________________________________________
•Over what duration of time? ____________________________________________________
iii.Describe nature and characteristics of materials to be excavated or dredged, and plans to use, manage or dispose of them.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
iv.Will there be onsite dewatering or processing of excavated materials?9 Yes 9 No
If yes, describe. ___________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
v.What is the total area to be dredged or excavated? _____________________________________acres
vi.What is the maximum area to be worked at any one time? _______________________________ acres
vii.What would be the maximum depth of excavation or dredging? __________________________ feet
viii.Will the excavation require blasting?9 Yes 9 No
ix.Summarize site reclamation goals and plan: _____________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
b. Would the proposed action cause or result in alteration of, increase or decrease in size of, or encroachment 9 Yes 9 No
into any existing wetland, waterbody, shoreline, beach or adjacent area?
If Yes:
i.Identify the wetland or waterbody which would be affected (by name, water index number, wetland map number or geographic
description): ______________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
(Not including general site preparation, grading or installation of utilities or foundations where all excavated
materials will remain onsite)
i .What is the purpose of the excavation or dredging?______________________________________________________
1
56 ft 382 ft 224 ft
h:+/-90,289;c:+/-446
Building foundations
0
Excavated materials will remain on site.
Page 5 of 13
ii.
iii.
Describe how the proposed action would affect that waterbody or wetland,e.g. excavation,fill, placement of structures, or
alteration of channels,banks and shorelines.Indicate extent of activities, alterations and additions in square feet or acres:
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Will the proposed action cause or result in disturbance to bottom sediments? Yes 9 No
If Yes,describe:__________________________________________________________________________________________
iv.Will the proposed action cause or result in the destruction or removal of aquatic vegetation?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes:
•acres of aquatic vegetation proposed to be removed: ___________________________________________________________
•expected acreage of aquatic vegetation remaining after project completion:________________________________________
•purpose of proposed removal (e.g. beach clearing, invasive species control, boat access): ____________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
•proposed method of plant removal: ________________________________________________________________________
•if chemical/herbicide treatment will be used, specify product(s): _________________________________________________
v.Describe any proposed reclamation/mitigation following disturbance: _________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
c. Will the proposed action use, or create a new demand for water?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes:
i.Total anticipated water usage/demand per day: __________________________ gallons/day
ii.Will the proposed action obtain water from an existing public water supply?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes:
•Name of district or service area: _________________________________________________________________________
•Does the existing public water supply have capacity to serve the proposal?9 Yes 9 No
•Is the project site in the existing district?9 Yes 9 No
•Is expansion of the district needed?9 Yes 9 No
•Do existing lines serve the project site?9 Yes 9 No
iii.Will line extension within an existing district be necessary to supply the project?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes:
•Describe extensions or capacity expansions proposed to serve this project: ________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
•Source(s) of supply for the district: ________________________________________________________________________
iv.Is a new water supply district or service area proposed to be formed to serve the project site?9 Yes 9 No
If, Yes:
v.If a public water supply will not be used, describe plans to provide water supply for the project: ___________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
vi.If water supply will be from wells (public or private),what is the maximum pumping capacity: _______gallons/minute.
d. Will the proposed action generate liquid wastes?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes:
i.Total anticipated liquid waste generation per day: _______________ gallons/day
ii.Nature of liquid wastes to be generated (e.g., sanitary wastewater, industrial; if combination,describe all components and
approximate volumes or proportions of each): __________________________________________________________________
iii.Will the proposed action use any existing public wastewater treatment facilities?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes:
•Name of wastewater treatment plant to be used: _____________________________________________________________
•Name of district: ______________________________________________________________________________________
•Does the existing wastewater treatment plant have capacity to serve the project?9 Yes 9 No
• Is the project site in the existing district?9 Yes 9 No
• Is expansion of the district needed?9 Yes 9 No
•Applicant/sponsor for new district: ____________________________________________________________
•Date application submitted or anticipated:__________________________________________________________________
•Proposed source(s) of supply for new district: _______________________________________________________________
3,600
Cornell University Water System (NYSDEC Permit #:7-5030-00008/00007)
A new 10"HDPE water main will be connected to the existing high pressure system located along Tower Rd.and extended to the building.
Fall Creek via the Cornell University Water Filtration Plant
A public water supply will used for the proposed project.
3,600
Domestic wastewater only.
Ithaca Area Waste Water Treatment Facility (IAWWTF)
Ithaca Area Waste Water Service Area
Page 6 of 13
9 Yes 9 No •Do existing sewer lines serve the project site?
•Will a line extension within an existing district be necessary to serve the project?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes:
•Describe extensions or capacity expansions proposed to serve this project: ____________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
iv.Will a new wastewater (sewage) treatment district be formed to serve the project site?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes:
•
•Date application submitted or anticipated: _______________________________________________________________
•What is the receiving water for the wastewater discharge? __________________________________________________
v.If public facilities will not be used, describe plans to provide wastewater treatment for the project, including specifying proposed
receiving water (name and classification if surface discharge or describe subsurface disposal plans):
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
vi.Describe any plans or designs to capture, recycle or reuse liquid waste: _______________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
e. Will the proposed action disturb more than one acre and create stormwater runoff, either from new point 9 Yes 9 No
sources (i.e. ditches, pipes, swales, curbs, gutters or other concentrated flows of stormwater) or non-point
source (i.e. sheet flow) during construction or post construction?
If Yes:
i.How much impervious surface will the project create in relation to total size of project parcel?
_____ Square feet or _____ acres (impervious surface)
_____ Square feet or _____ acres (parcel size)
ii.Describe types of new point sources. __________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
iii.Where will the stormwater runoff be directed (i.e. on-site stormwater management facility/structures, adjacent properties,
groundwater, on-site surface water or off-site surface waters)?
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
•If to surface waters, identify receiving water bodies or wetlands: ________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
•Will stormwater runoff flow to adjacent properties?
iv.
f. Does the proposed action include, or will it use on-site, one or more sources of air emissions, including fuel 9 Yes 9 No
combustion, waste incineration, or other processes or operations?
If Yes, identify:
i. Mobile sources during project operations (e.g., heavy equipment, fleet or delivery vehicles)
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
ii.Stationary sources during construction (e.g., power generation, structural heating, batch plant, crushers)
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
iii.Stationary sources during operations (e.g., process emissions, large boilers, electric generation)
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
g. Will any air emission sources named in D.2.f (above), require a NY State Air Registration, Air Facility Permit,9 Yes 9 No
or Federal Clean Air Act Title IV or Title V Permit?
If Yes:
i.Is the project site located in an Air quality non-attainment area? (Area routinely or periodically fails to meet 9 Yes 9 No
ambient air quality standards for all or some parts of the year)
ii.In addition to emissions as calculated in the application, the project will generate:
•___________Tons/year (short tons)of Carbon Dioxide (CO2)
•___________Tons/year (short tons) of Nitrous Oxide (N2O)
•___________Tons/year (short tons) of Perfluorocarbons (PFCs)
•___________Tons/year (short tons) of Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6)
•___________Tons/year (short tons)of Carbon Dioxide equivalent of Hydroflourocarbons (HFCs)
•___________Tons/year (short tons)of Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPs)
Applicant/sponsor for new district: ___________________________________________________________________
9 Yes 9 No
Does the proposed plan minimize impervious surfaces,use pervious materials or collect and re-use stormwater? 9 Yes 9 No
Sanitary sewage from the proposed building will be lifted to the University gravity sanitary sewer system along Campus Rd by means of a duplex grinder
pump station through a new polyethylene force main.
3.3
7.3
Building roof drainage system,swales,athletic field underdrains.
Runoff will be collected via a system of on-site drainage inlets,swales,and underdrains;then directed to a series of below grade detention facilities and
green infrastructure practices with discharge connections to existing sewer systems.Existing drainage patterns and rates will be maintained.
N/A
None during operations.During construction:earth-moving equipment,trucks,material handlers,cranes,and boom lifts.
None anticipated.
None.
Page 7 of 13
h. Will the proposed action generate or emit methane (including, but not limited to, sewage treatment plants,9 Yes 9 No
landfills, composting facilities)?
If Yes:
i.Estimate methane generation in tons/year (metric): ________________________________________________________________
ii. Describe any methane capture, control or elimination measures included in project design (e.g., combustion to generate heat or
electricity, flaring): ________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
i. Will the proposed action result in the release of air pollutants from open-air operations or processes, such as 9 Yes 9 No
quarry or landfill operations?
If Yes: Describe operations and nature of emissions (e.g., diesel exhaust, rock particulates/dust):
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
j. Will the proposed action result in a substantial increase in traffic above present levels or generate substantial 9 Yes 9 No
new demand for transportation facilities or services?
If Yes:
i.When is the peak traffic expected (Check all that apply): Morning Evening Weekend
Randomly between hours of __________ to ________.
ii.
iii.
iv.
v.
9 Yes 9 No vi.Are public/private transportation service(s)or facilities available within ½ mile of the proposed site?
vii Will the proposed action include access to public transportation or accommodations for use of hybrid, electric 9 Yes 9 No
or other alternative fueled vehicles?
viii.Will the proposed action include plans for pedestrian or bicycle accommodations for connections to existing 9 Yes 9 No
pedestrian or bicycle routes?
k. Will the proposed action (for commercial or industrial projects only) generate new or additional demand 9 Yes 9 No
for energy?
If Yes:
iii.Will the proposed action require a new,or an upgrade, to an existing substation?9 Yes 9 No
l. Hours of operation. Answer all items which apply.
i. During Construction:ii.During Operations:
•Monday - Friday: _________________________•Monday - Friday: ____________________________
•Saturday: ________________________________•Saturday: ___________________________________
•Sunday: _________________________________•Sunday: ____________________________________
•Holidays: ________________________________•Holidays: ___________________________________
For commercial activities only, projected number of truck trips/day and type (e.g., semi trailers and dump trucks): _____________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Parking spaces:Existing __________ Proposed ___________Net increase/decrease _____________________ Does the
proposed action include any shared use parking? Yes No
If the proposed action includes any modification of existing roads, creation of new roads or change in existing access, describe:
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
i.Estimate annual electricity demand during operation of the proposed action: ____________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
ii.Anticipated sources/suppliers of electricity for the project (e.g., on-site combustion, on-site renewable,via grid/local utility, or
other):
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Not applicable
7AM -7PM
7AM -7PM
7AM -7PM
7AM -7PM
24/7 (hours vary by programming)
24/7 (hours vary by programming)
24/7 (hours vary by programming)
24/7 (hours vary by programming)
Page 8 of 13
m. Will the proposed action produce noise that will exceed existing ambient noise levels during construction,9 Yes 9 No
operation, or both?
If yes:
i.Provide details including sources, time of day and duration:
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
ii.Will the proposed action remove existing natural barriers that could act as a noise barrier or screen?9 Yes 9 No
Describe: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
n.W thill propeos actioed havne outd lighoorting?9 Yes 9 No
If yes:
i.Describe source(s), location(s), height of fixture(s), direction/aim, and proximity to nearest occupied structures:
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
ii.Will proposed action remove existing natural barriers that could act as a light barrier or screen?9 Yes 9 No
Describe: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
o.Does the proposed action have the potential to produce odors for more than one hour per day?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes, describe possible sources, potential frequency and duration of odor emissions, and proximity to nearest
occupied structures: ______________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
p.9 Yes 9 No Will the proposed action include any bulk storage of petroleum (combined capacity of over 1,100 gallons)
or chemical products 185 gallons in above ground storage or any amount in underground storage?
If Yes:
i.Product(s) to be stored ______________________________________________________________________________________
ii.Volume(s)______per unit time ___________(e.g., month, year)
iii.Generally, describe the proposed storage facilities:________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
q. Will the proposed action (commercial, industrial and recreational projects only) use pesticides (i.e., herbicides,9 Yes 9 No
insecticides) during construction or operation?
If Yes:
i.Describe proposed treatment(s):
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
ii.Will the proposed action use Integrated Pest Management Practices?9 Yes 9 No
r. Will the proposed action (commercial or industrial projects only) involve or require the management or disposal 9 Yes 9 No
of solid waste (excluding hazardous materials)?
If Yes:
i.Describe any solid waste(s) to be generated during construction or operation of the facility:
•Construction: ____________________ tons per ________________ (unit of time)
•Operation : ____________________ tons per ________________ (unit of time)
ii.Describe any proposals for on-site minimization, recycling or reuse of materials to avoid disposal as solid waste:
•Construction: ________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
•Operation: __________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
iii.Proposed disposal methods/facilities for solid waste generated on-site:
•Construction: ________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
•Operation: __________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Not applicable
During construction only.Rock removal using hydraulic hammers mounted on excavators will occur if needed.
See attached Narrative
Page 9 of 13
s. Does the proposed action include construction or modification of a solid waste management facility?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes:
i.Type of management or handling of waste proposed for the site (e.g., recycling or transfer station, composting, landfill, or
other disposal activities): ___________________________________________________________________________________
ii.Anticipated rate of disposal/processing:
•________ Tons/month, if transfer or other non-combustion/thermal treatment, or
•________ Tons/hour, if combustion or thermal treatment
iii.If landfill, anticipated site life: ________________________________ years
t.Will the proposed action at the site involve the commercial generation, treatment,storage,or disposal of hazardous 9 Yes 9 No
waste?
If Yes:
i.Name(s) of all hazardous wastes or constituents to be generated, handled or managed at facility: ___________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
ii.Generally describe processes or activities involving hazardous wastes or constituents: ___________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
iii. Specify amount to be handled or generated _____ tons/month
iv.Describe any proposals for on-site minimization, recycling or reuse of hazardous constituents: ____________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
v.Will any hazardous wastes be disposed at an existing offsite hazardous waste facility?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes: provide name and location of facility: _______________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
If No: describe proposed management of any hazardous wastes which will not be sent to a hazardous waste facility:
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
E. Site and Setting of Proposed Action
E.1. Land uses on and surrounding the project site
a. Existing land uses.
i.Check all uses that occur on, adjoining and near the project site.
9 Urban 9 Industrial 9 Commercial 9 Residential (suburban) 9 Rural (non-farm)
9 Forest 9 Agriculture 9 Aquatic 9 Other (specify): ____________________________________
ii.If mix of uses, generally describe:
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
b. Land uses and covertypes on the project site.
Land use or
Covertype
Current
Acreage
Acreage After
Project Completion
Change
(Acres +/-)
•Roads, buildings, and other paved or impervious
surfaces
•Forested
•Meadows, grasslands or brushlands (non-
agricultural, including abandoned agricultural)
•Agricultural
(includes active orchards, field, greenhouse etc.)
•Surface water features
(lakes, ponds, streams, rivers, etc.)
•Wetlands (freshwater or tidal)
•Non-vegetated (bare rock, earth or fill)
•Other
Describe: _______________________________
________________________________________
University Campus
2.3 5.6 +3.3
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
0 0 0
Lawn and Natural Turf Sports Fields 5 1.7 -3.3
Page 10 of 13
c. Is the project site presently used by members of the community for public recreation?9 Yes 9 No
i.If Yes: explain: __________________________________________________________________________________________
d. Are there any facilities serving children, the elderly, people with disabilities (e.g., schools, hospitals, licensed 9 Yes 9 No
day care centers, or group homes) within 1500 feet of the project site?
If Yes,
i.Identify Facilities:
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
e. Does the project site contain an existing dam?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes:
i.Dimensions of the dam and impoundment:
•Dam height: _________________________________ feet
•Dam length: _________________________________ feet
•Surface area: _________________________________ acres
•Volume impounded: _______________________________ gallons OR acre-feet
ii.Dam=s existing hazard classification: _________________________________________________________________________
iii.Provide date and summarize results of last inspection:
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
f. Has the project site ever been used as a municipal, commercial or industrial solid waste management facility,9 Yes 9 No
or does the project site adjoin property which is now, or was at one time, used as a solid waste management facility?
If Yes:
i. Has the facility been formally closed?9 Yes 9 No
•If yes, cite sources/documentation: _______________________________________________________________________
ii.Describe the location of the project site relative to the boundaries of the solid waste management facility:
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
iii.Describe any development constraints due to the prior solid waste activities: __________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
g. Have hazardous wastes been generated, treated and/or disposed of at the site, or does the project site adjoin 9 Yes 9 No
property which is now or was at one time used to commercially treat, store and/or dispose of hazardous waste?
If Yes:
i.Describe waste(s) handled and waste management activities, including approximate time when activities occurred:
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
h. Potential contamination history. Has there been a reported spill at the proposed project site, or have any 9 Yes 9 No
remedial actions been conducted at or adjacent to the proposed site?
If Yes:
i.Is any portion of the site listed on the NYSDEC Spills Incidents database or Environmental Site 9 Yes 9 No
Remediation database? Check all that apply:
9 Yes – Spills Incidents database Provide DEC ID number(s): ________________________________
9 Yes – Environmental Site Remediation database Provide DEC ID number(s): ________________________________
9 Neither database
ii.If site has been subject of RCRA corrective activities, describe control measures:_______________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
iii.Is the project within 2000 feet of any site in the NYSDEC Environmental Site Remediation database?9 Yes 9 No
If yes, provide DEC ID number(s): ______________________________________________________________________________
iv.If yes to (i), (ii) or (iii) above, describe current status of site(s):
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________The EAF Mapper may identify several sites but they are all located more than 2000 feet from the project site and are hydraulically downgradient.
Page 11 of 13
v.Is the project site subject to an institutional control limiting property uses?9 Yes 9 No
•If yes, DEC site ID number: ____________________________________________________________________________
•Describe the type of institutional control (e.g., deed restriction or easement): ____________________________________
•Describe any use limitations: ___________________________________________________________________________
•Describe any engineering controls: _______________________________________________________________________
•Will the project affect the institutional or engineering controls in place?9 Yes 9 No
•Explain: ____________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________________
E.2. Natural Resources On or Near Project Site
a. What is the average depth to bedrock on the project site? ________________ feet
b. Are there bedrock outcroppings on the project site?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes, what proportion of the site is comprised of bedrock outcroppings? __________________%
c. Predominant soil type(s) present on project site: ___________________________ __________%
___________________________ __________%
____________________________ __________%
d. What is the average depth to the water table on the project site? Average: _________ feet
e. Drainage status of project site soils: 9 Well Drained:_____%of site
9 Moderately Well Drained: _____% of site
9 Poorly Drained _____%of site
f. Approximate proportion of proposed action site with slopes: 9 0-10%:_____% of site
9 10-15%: _____% of site
9 15% or greater: _____% of site
g. Are there any unique geologic features on the project site?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes, describe: _____________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
h. Surface water features.
i.Does any portion of the project site contain wetlands or other waterbodies (including streams, rivers,9 Yes 9 No
ponds or lakes)?
ii.Do any wetlands or other waterbodies adjoin the project site?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes to either i or ii, continue. If No, skip to E.2.i.
iii.Are any of the wetlands or waterbodies within or adjoining the project site regulated by any federal,9 Yes 9 No
state or local agency?
iv.For each identified regulated wetland and waterbody on the project site, provide the following information:
•Streams: Name ____________________________________________Classification _______________________ •Lakes or Ponds:Name ____________________________________________Classification _______________________•Wetlands: Name ____________________________________________Approximate Size ___________________ •Wetland No. (if regulated by DEC) _____________________________
v.Are any of the above water bodies listed in the most recent compilation of NYS water quality-impaired 9 Yes 9 No
waterbodies?
If yes, name of impaired water body/bodies and basis for listing as impaired: _____________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________
i.Is the project site in a designated Floodway?9 Yes 9 No
j.Is the project site in the 100-year Floodplain?9 Yes 9 No
k.Is the project site in the 500-year Floodplain?9 Yes 9 No
l. Is the project site located over, or immediately adjoining, a primary, principal or sole source aquifer?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes:
i.Name of aquifer: _________________________________________________________________________________________
>24
Brown silt and clay (0-20 ft depth)100
>24
100
100n
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m. Identify the predominant wildlife species that occupy or use the project site: ______________________________
_______________________________ ______________________________ ______________________________
_____________________________________________________________ ______________________________
n. Does the project site contain a designated significant natural community?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes:
i.Describe the habitat/community (composition, function, and basis for designation): _____________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
ii.Source(s) of description or evaluation: ________________________________________________________________________
iii.Extent of community/habitat:
•Currently: ______________________ acres
•Following completion of project as proposed: _____________________ acres
•Gain or loss (indicate + or -): ______________________ acres
o. Does project site contain any species of plant or animal that is listed by the federal government or NYS as 9 Yes 9 No
endangered or threatened, or does it contain any areas identified as habitat for an endangered or threatened species?
p. Does the project site contain any species of plant or animal that is listed by NYS as rare, or as a species of 9 Yes 9 No
special concern?
q. Is the project site or adjoining area currently used for hunting, trapping, fishing or shell fishing?9 Yes 9 No
If yes, give a brief description of how the proposed action may affect that use: ___________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
E.3. Designated Public Resources On or Near Project Site
a. Is the project site, or any portion of it, located in a designated agricultural district certified pursuant to 9 Yes 9 No
Agriculture and Markets Law, Article 25-AA, Section 303 and 304?
If Yes, provide county plus district name/number: _________________________________________________________________
b. Are agricultural lands consisting of highly productive soils present?9 Yes 9 No
i.If Yes: acreage(s) on project site? ___________________________________________________________________________
ii.Source(s) of soil rating(s): _________________________________________________________________________________
c. Does the project site contain all or part of, or is it substantially contiguous to, a registered National 9 Yes 9 No
Natural Landmark?
If Yes:
i.Nature of the natural landmark: 9 Biological Community 9 Geological Feature
ii.Provide brief description of landmark, including values behind designation and approximate size/extent: ___________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
d. Is the project site located in or does it adjoin a state listed Critical Environmental Area?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes:
i.CEA name: _____________________________________________________________________________________________
ii.Basis for designation: _____________________________________________________________________________________
iii.Designating agency and date: ______________________________________________________________________________
If Yes:
i.Species and listing (endangered or threatened):______________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
If Yes:
i.Species and listing:____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Wildlife common to developed urban and Mating pair of red-tailed hawks nest on a
suburban areas.light pole on site.
Lake sturgeon and Rusty-patched Bumble bee are listed in EAF Mapper report,however,the existing site is a sports field and therefore inhospitable to
either of these species.
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e. Does the project site contain, or is it substantially contiguous to, a building, archaeological site, or district 9 Yes 9 No
which is listed on the National or State Register of Historic Places, or that has been determined by the Commissioner of the NYS
Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to be eligible for listing on the State Register of Historic Places?
If Yes:
i.Nature of historic/archaeological resource: 9 Archaeological Site 9 Historic Building or District
ii.Name: _________________________________________________________________________________________________
iii.Brief description of attributes on which listing is based:
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________
f. Is the project site, or any portion of it, located in or adjacent to an area designated as sensitive for 9 Yes 9 No
archaeological sites on the NY State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) archaeological site inventory?
g. Have additional archaeological or historic site(s) or resources been identified on the project site?9 Yes 9 No
If Yes:
i. Describe possible resource(s): _______________________________________________________________________________
ii.Basis for identification: ___________________________________________________________________________________
h.9 Yes 9 No Is the project site within fives miles of any officially designated and publicly accessible federal, state,or local
scenic or aesthetic resource?
If Yes:
i.Identify resource: _________________________________________________________________________________________
ii.Nature of, or basis for, designation (e.g., established highway overlook, state or local park, state historic trail or scenic byway,
etc.): ___________________________________________________________________________________________________
iii.Distance between project and resource: _____________________ miles.
i. Is the project site located within a designated river corridor under the Wild, Scenic and Recreational Rivers 9 Yes 9 No
Program 6 NYCRR 666?
If Yes:
i.Identify the name of the river and its designation: ________________________________________________________________
ii.Is the activity consistent with development restrictions contained in 6NYCRR Part 666?9 Yes 9 No
F. Additional Information
Attach any additional information which may be needed to clarify your project.
If you have identified any adverse impacts which could be associated with your proposal, please describe those impacts plus any
measures which you propose to avoid or minimize them.
G. Verification
I certify that the information provided is true to the best of my knowledge.
Applicant/Sponsor Name ___________________________________ Date_______________________________________
Signature________________________________________________ Title_______________________________________
Kimberly Michaels December 15,2023
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Director of Landscape Architecture