Haverstraw, NY – The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is inviting public comment on a Brownfield Cleanup Program (BCP) application and Draft Remedial Investigation Work Plan for the Haverstraw Chair Factory site, located at 30 Liberty Street and 87 Main Street in the Village of Haverstraw, Rockland County.
The application has been submitted by Haverstraw Community Chair Factory LLC. An entity associated with redevelopment of the site, MPACT Collective LLC, is proposing proposing 450-unit mixed used residential buildings.
Project Overview and PILOT Program Request
MPACT Collective LLC plans to transform the former Chair Factory site into a mixed-use development, including approximately 450 housing units—70% of which are designated as affordable housing—and a 120-room hotel in a subsequent phase. To facilitate this redevelopment, MPACT has requested a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreement, which has become a focal point of local debate, namely at Town of Haverstraw board meetings.
Under a PILOT agreement, the developer would make reduced tax payments to the local government, potentially lower than standard property taxes. Proponents argue that such agreements are essential for making large-scale affordable housing projects financially viable. However, Haverstraw Town Supervisor Howard Phillips and other town officials have expressed concerns that the proposed PILOT could place an undue burden on local infrastructure and services, including fire, police, ambulance, and highway departments. They are concerned that reduced tax revenue may not sufficiently cover the increased demand on these essential services.
Access to Documents and Public Participation
Interested parties can access the BCP application, Draft Remedial Investigation Work Plan, and other related documents online through the DECinfo Locator. Physical copies are also available at the Haverstraw King’s Daughters Public Library, located at 85 Main Street, Haverstraw, NY, 10927.
The DEC encourages residents, community organizations, and other stakeholders to provide their input on the proposed cleanup plan and express any concerns regarding the PILOT proposal. Comments can be submitted until February 21, 2025, to Project Manager Oliver Wolfe through the following channels:
- Public comment: DEC Website
- Mail: Oliver Wolfe, 625 Broadway, 12th Floor, Albany, NY, 12233-7014
- Email: oliver.wolfe@dec.ny.gov
- Phone: (518) 402-9732
Why Your Input Matters
Community input is a critical component of the Brownfield Cleanup process. Local feedback ensures that remediation plans align with community needs and environmental safety standards. With the added complexity of the PILOT proposal, public participation is vital to balance redevelopment goals with the fiscal health of local services.
Translation Services Available
For those requiring translation services to participate in the public comment process, the DEC offers translation support. Further information regarding translation services is available through the DEC’s website.
For more information about the Brownfield Cleanup Program and to view specific details about the Haverstraw Chair Factory site, visit the DEC’s official site and enter the site ID #C344093.