The Canandaigua City Planning Commission on Wednesday reviewed a slate of proposals, including a rezoning request for a large-scale residential development, an application for a seasonal fireworks tent, and multiple historic property alterations.
Waterchase Planned Unit Development Proposal Reviewed
A proposed residential development known as the Waterchase Planned Unit Development was a key topic of discussion. The project’s developer, Canandaigua Development Company, is seeking a rezoning approval from the City Council to move forward with plans for 79 single-family homes.
The developer’s representatives outlined key changes from prior proposals, including slightly smaller lot sizes than currently allowed under zoning regulations, a deviation from sidewalk requirements, and a request to modify garage placements. The proposed lot sizes, at 8,500 square feet in some areas, are below the city’s 10,000-square-foot minimum for detached homes but are comparable to nearby developments.
A major focus of the discussion centered on stormwater management. The project site contains natural drainage channels, and commissioners voiced concerns about potential flooding issues, particularly in light of recent severe weather events. The developer stated that stormwater detention facilities would be designed to meet state environmental standards and that a maintenance agreement with the city could be established to ensure long-term management.
Commissioners also inquired about construction phasing, seeking assurances that streets and infrastructure would be completed even if the housing market slowed. The developer said initial phases would include critical road connections to minimize construction traffic impact on existing neighborhoods.
The Planning Commission is tasked only with making a recommendation to the City Council regarding the rezoning request, which will ultimately decide whether the project moves forward.
Fireworks Tent Approved Despite Traffic Concerns
A proposal by Keystone Novelties to install a seasonal fireworks tent at 520 North Main Street received commission approval. The tent, which would be in place from mid-June until early July, is similar to operations the company has run elsewhere in Canandaigua.
While some commissioners expressed concerns about traffic congestion at the proposed location near a busy intersection, the applicant argued that traffic impact would be minimal, estimating about 50 customers per day. Ultimately, the commission approved the request with conditions, including color restrictions on tent skirting, signage limitations, and a requirement that the tent be removed promptly after the sales period.
Historic Window Replacement Approved for North Main Street Home
The commission also approved a request from homeowner Valerie Puchades to replace 16 windows at 193 North Main Street. Although the city’s historic preservation guidelines discourage vinyl window replacements, the applicant cited prior approvals for similar replacements at the property and argued that the existing windows were beyond repair.
After discussion, the commission determined that the replacements would not significantly alter the home’s historic character, especially since many of the windows face the rear or sides of the property. The request was approved unanimously.
Signage Request Postponed, Business Sign Approved
The commission tabled a request from Alice’s Red Rose Boutique for a new wall sign at 183 South Main Street, as the applicant was not present.
However, the commission did approve a request from Lincoln on Main at 245 South Main Street to resurface an existing pole sign. While pole signs are no longer permitted under city regulations, this one was grandfathered in due to its long-standing presence. The new sign will match the business’s branding, and the applicant agreed to paint the pole and signbox black for aesthetic improvement. Commissioners debated whether the sign should have restricted lighting hours but ultimately allowed it to remain illuminated overnight, as it has historically been.
Next Steps
With the Waterchase development recommendation heading to the City Council for review, commissioners indicated they would continue to monitor its environmental and infrastructure impacts. The next Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for April 9.
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