A years-long wait for a new master plan for the Town of Wappinger in Dutchess County (population about 27,000) took on added importance this month with the expiration of a prolonged building moratorium covering projects of more than five acres.
According to a report in the Poughkeepsie Journal, the town's plan hasn't been updated since 1988, and many proposals are awaiting decisions while officials debate Smart Growth principles and limiting the number of housing units in new developments.
"Overall, Wappinger has put together a solid planning document - one that advocates growth in the most appropriate areas," according to the report, which adds "Town officials and consultants say, in general, the changes are designed to direct some development away from the more rural areas and toward hamlets."
The Poughkeepsie Journal editorial report on this subject can be viewed at:
http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2009907010313
Read a letter to the editor on the subject at:
http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2009907120327
