Representatives from Dover Greens presented development plans for the Dover Greens Project at a public meeting on Sept. 4.
Several hundred people attended the special Town Board meeting at the Dover Middle/High School auditorium. They were introduced to the team of staff and consultants from Dover Greens and had the opportunity to ask questions during a session moderated by Town of Dover Supervisor Ryan Courtien.
Kathy Schibanoff, CEO of Dover Greens, delivered a presentation describing the redevelopment of the former Dover Knolls site as the Dover Greens project, envisioned to include educational facilities, an IT Center, a Research and Development Center, and retail amenities.
“There is a successful and growing model throughout the country that creates a strong synergy between educational facilities and businesses by locating them near each other,” said Schibanoff. “New York is just starting to recognize and promote this type of economic development and I believe this model can help create a new local economy here in Dover.”
Dover Greens CEO Kathy Schibanoff presents development plans for the Doer Greens Project in Dover before hundreds at a special Town Board meeting on Sept 4.
Dover Greens purchased 503 acres on the east side of the former Dover Knolls property in August, with the option to purchase 434 acres on the west side. The property has dozens of buildings, its own train station and recreational opportunities in the area’s natural beauty.
Schibanoff provided an overview of project plans and its projected benefits.
The development of the Dover Greens Project will focus on the “adaptive reuse” of the existing buildings. Compared to previous plans for the site, this approach allows for the project to move at a faster pace, leave a smaller environmental impact, and preserve the historic character of the brick buildings.
While in its early stages, the project is expected to spur economic growth and job creation in the Town of Dover. As the project develops, new job opportunities will be available in construction, landscaping, maintenance, administration, information technology, teaching, security, and many other areas.
“Property values, income levels and consumer spending are all expected to rise and contribute toward expanding the Town’s economic base,” said Schibanoff. “We look forward to working with the town long-term to improve our community’s future.”
The head of Dover Greens also reported on the progress of the project.
In the presentation, Schibanoff showed photos of local vendors and contractors working to restore the grounds of the site. Current landscaping and site restoration work include mowing the grass, trimming trees and vines, cleaning the buildings, installing the main gate, paving the road and painting old doors.
Schibanoff said Dover Greens is moving forward to restore three buildings. Architects are working on producing as-builts for three buildings, the building interiors are being surveyed for remediation, and electricians are bringing power back. Water and sewer services are also being reviewed.
“It’s early in the process and we are currently assessing our buildings and determining how best to use each one,” she said, noting a Master Site Plan is in the works.
Locals also heard from the Town’s planner, Graham Trelstad of AKRF, and Dover Greens’ architect, Michael McCormack of Liscum McCormack VanVoorhis LLP.
Town officials were excited about the multiplier effect that the project will bring.
“This is a great opportunity for our town,” Supervisor Courtien said.
