44°
"With the twin goals of enhancing the commercial tax base and bringing a grocery store to the east side of Town, the Town Board is considering a partial rezoning of the Chappaqua Crossing commercial property to allow for very targeted retail," read the statement.
The announcement comes on the heels of the New Castle Town Board learning that no other existing retail space in the hamlet is large enough to meet the needs of a major supermarket.
The hamlet has been without a supermarket since D'Agostino's left in September. Town Supervisor Susan Carpenter said the property received no interest from any supermarkets, saying it was too small.
Outside consultant Albert Krull said supermarkets typically require between 50,000 and 70,000 square feet, which Chappaqua does not have available. He estimated the vacancy left by D'Agostino's was 24,000 square feet.
The idea of redeveloping Chappaqua Crossing has been a frequent topic of conversation since Reader's Digest left the area in 2004. Former town council candidate Rob Greenstein said he believes the property would be very attractive to a prospective supermarket.
"You're going to tell me that area, with the proximity to the highway, a Whole Foods wouldn't be interested in that area?" Greenstein said at a March 6 town board work session.
The town board reiterated that the potential redevelopment is in only in the exploratory stage and officials are seeking feedback. The town board has set aside time for residents to voice their opinion on the idea at an upcoming board meeting at 7:45 p.m. on March 27.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Chappaqua and receive free news updates.
