We, the undersigned residents of Dobbs Ferry, urge you to reject the proposal to build on The Knoll for the following reasons:

1. Road Safety Concerns: The proposed road would not meet today’s road safety standards and fails to comply with the requirements set forth in the Dobbs Ferry Village Code regarding design speed, maximum roadway grade, intersection approach straightness, curve radius, roadway width, firefighting equipment access, etc. Issuing any variances would compromise the safety of our children and other community members.

2. Environmental Sensitivity: The Knoll is an environmentally sensitive area that must be protected for the sake of the Knoll neighborhood and beyond:

– The Knoll is adjacent to the Juhring Nature Preserve, which has been declared a Critical Environmental Area by New York State.

– It is home to many native plants and animals, including the Eastern box turtle, which is listed as a species of special concern in New York State. 

– The Knoll has natural water retention properties, releasing rainwater slowly during the winter months. Destruction of The Knoll would exacerbate flooding for residents and homeowners living in the floodplain below.

3. Conservation Easements: The Village of Dobbs Ferry has recognized the importance of The Knoll as an environmentally sensitive area by being the holder of conservation easements on three individual lots:

– Construction of a roadway and houses would violate the contractual agreements of these conservation easements. 

– The construction would destroy many mature trees on neighboring properties, including those on lots with conservation easements. 

– The proposed development would alter the current watersheds of the neighborhood in violation of the conservation easements.

In conclusion, we urge the Planning Board to consider the long-term consequences of developing The Knoll. Preserving this area is essential for maintaining the environmental, cultural, and social fabric of our community. Please follow the Village’s Vision Plan with regards to protecting open space, the environment and the character of the Knoll neighborhood. We respectfully request that you reject the proposed development and explore alternative solutions that do not compromise the integrity of our cherished green spaces. Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Sincerely, 

Protect The Knoll Neighborhood Group