As the primary remaining undeveloped area in the Town of Glenville, the Freemans Bridge Road/Dutch Meadows sector of the Town was experiencing severe development pressure. Synthesis and its subconsultants, Transportation Concepts and River Street Planning & Development, worked with the Town to develop a viable plan for future development that allows for economic growth while addressing the concerns of residents regarding quality-of-life issues.

The Synthesis team conducted an analysis of the study area that included extensive on-site investigations, technical transportation studies, and data research. A key component was interaction with residents and consideration of their ideas and concerns in the development of the goals and objectives of the plan proposal. The proposal uses the concept of “traditional development,” emphasizing integration of residential development with small scale commercial development. The design offers inviting pedestrian-scale streets and convenient, attractive public spaces.

Currently a heavily highway-focused area, Synthesis developed a plan that balances economic development with residents’ concerns, suggesting specific areas to be developed for mixed use, as well as areas targeted for particular types of development; modification of the transportation network to move traffic more efficiently and provide for pedestrian safety; the development of pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly routes and linkages; and a design strategy that provides cohesiveness and reflects the identity of this formerly rural area. The plan was designed to be compatable with a townwide Master Plan and complementary to plans for a new Town Center.