Envision our river villages a decade or two in the future. We would see a population increased by riverfront development and housed in other locations found suitable for residential construction. For our auto driven suburban culture that means more cars no matter how close these locations are to mass transit. A new, widened span replacing the existing Tappan Zee Bridge would facilitate a predicted increase in traffic that would move eastward across the county or seek destinations to the north or south on Route 9. However, among that burgeoning flow, we would likely find more motorists from west of the Hudson who cross the span to connect with rail transportation in Westchester.

Built near the bridge to accommodate a rapid bus system, perhaps we might find a bus depot or possibly a ramp circling back northward to the Tarrytown train station. Expanded retail and office space along Route 119 could bring yet more vehicles moving to and from Irvington, Sleepy Hollow or Elmsford. Vehicle passage along Broadway, a route already burdened at times by congestion, might move even slower.

Focus now on the present. A large supermarket, office and retail space has been proposed for construction along the southern side of White Plains Road, (Route 119). An initial step for the development is the approval of a zoning amendment now being considered by the Greenburgh Town Council. To some this development is symbolic of progress. To local municipalities it represents an expansion of the tax base. To still others it offers a sought after source for broader grocery shopping.

There is no denying that a healthy commercial tax base is necessary to keep property owners’ taxes from escalating. And a supermarket of the size proposed may give consumers a large selection of foodstuffs. More office space could mean more local jobs. All are quite positive attributes to the proposed development. However, the development must also be considered within the larger scope of community planning within the area. Is it a preamble to much more commercial development along White Plains Road; development that could add to traffic woes, increase pollution, and make existence unsavory for nearby residential areas?

Given the projected future of the square mile or so in the vicinity of the designated location, it is imperative that a careful study is made of all environmental aspects of the planned space. Most importantly, that includes traffic, and pedestrian accessibility, the preservation of open space and other aspects that will add, rather than subtract to the neighboring communities. Will shuttle buses to the location from suitable areas, as has been suggested, help alleviate potential traffic problems? A thorough and broad study is a necessary element before a decision is made to accept the proposed plan.