Costco May be Built Near Crossgates After Ruling
A recent ruling by a judge may make Costco a reality to be built near Crossgates Mall in Guilderland. Just because a judge ruled in the builder's favor, however, doesn't mean residents are going to back down without a fight. They have some strong arguments.
Many people are concerned about the ecosystem in and around the area where the proposed Costco would be built. The Albany Pine Bush is nearby and the worry is that many plant and animal habitats could be affected. Another concern would be the added traffic in an already high volume traffic area. The proposal does call for a roundabout at the entrance of Crossgates Mall on the Route 20 side to eliminate the light and the congestion according to CBS 6 News.
Residents are left scratching their heads at the new ruling. Back in November of 2020, a State Supreme Court Judge sided with neighbors who said that the environment, traffic, and noise would be affected if Costco was built in that area. Now the seventy-seven-page ruling has been overturned. But the town says this doesn't mean that construction can begin. It only means that developers can go ahead with the town review process. There are many layers to this review, including a special-use permit review and a Zoning Board report.
There will be another Town of Guilderland meeting at the Town Hall tonight, Tuesday, July 13th at 7 pm. If you are a resident and concerned about the environment, noise, or traffic, you are encouraged to attend. A bigger concern is the Albany Pine Bush. Many residents are questioning whether the town wants the Pine Bush to be preserved or paved over?