Opinion: I fail to see the benefits of proposed construction in Turtletown

Dear Editor,

The proposed plan to build a 40-unit apartment complex in the empty field located on E. Division St. between E. Front and E. Main St. is the worst idea I have heard in a long time! I truly hope the Village of Owego and the Tioga County Planning and Zoning Boards exercise some form of common sense and see it for what it is! A developer’s attempt to financially gain from the community at the expense of residents surrounding the property. 

This area sits in the 100-year flood plain and the floodwaters in 2011 were up over the stop sign at E. Front and E. Division St. The house at that corner was demolished after the flood and it is my understanding that the lot must remain “forever green.” 

How is it appropriate to build an apartment complex directly across the street? This field is essentially a swamp in the spring due to storm runoff.  At last night’s Tioga County Zoning Board meeting, the project architect from Two Plus Tour Construction, Ed Keplinger, stated that soil samples were taken on Nov. 14, 2017 that found no groundwater was present at eight feet. How about taking those samples in the spring when they would be more accurate?

The developer’s proposal to build there, even if they can build high enough to meet FEMA’s standards of two feet above the floodplain to protect the residents of the apartment complex, would essentially replace the natural sponge this field provides with buildings and parking lots, thus pushing countless gallons of flood and storm water into the surrounding homes in Turtletown.  

As a result, the levels of water in Brick Pond would rise as well, further impacting the surrounding neighborhood and wildlife in the area.

Beyond the flooding concerns, there are concerns regarding increased traffic, lights, emergency evacuation plans and if the existing water and sewer can handle this type of development. I personally fail to see any real benefit to this project. 

Sincerely,

Kasey Chobot

Owego, N.Y.