Pocantico Lake Park Should Remain Free of Development for All

August 16, 2021 Examiner Media Pocantico Lake

I recently learned about the potential real estate development on Pocantico Lake (“Proposed Subdivision at Pocantico Lake Park Would Degrade a County Jewel”). Pocantico Lake is a jewel – a place for birders, walkers, swimmers, dog walkers and anyone who loves a quiet, green oasis. Now it’s threatened with the development of 30-plus houses.

According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, “most projects or activities proposed by a state agency or unit of local government, and all discretionary approvals (permits) from a NYS agency or unit of local government, require an environmental impact assessment” known as the state Environmental Quality Review (SEQR).

Westchester residents, please ask your elected officials for an actual SEQR review of the proposal. This is not a kneejerk NIMBY (Not in My Backyard) response; it’s a request for a legitimate discussion of the environmental impact of development on this unique wetland and the surrounding community.

And before or after you make that call or send that e-mail, take a walk around Pocantico Lake. I guarantee that you will find yourself physically and mentally renewed by the beauty of the spot. In this time of enormous changes at the last minute, the public needs access to green spaces like Pocantico Lake more than ever.

Nelle Stokes
Pleasantville