Rye Arts Center Expansion, Hen Island & More: Planning Commission Agenda for Tuesday, February 11, 2025

The Rye City Planning Commission is responsible for decisions on a variety of land use applications including site plans, subdivisions, wetland permits, coastal consistency determinations, special use permits and outdoor dining permits. The Commission also periodically provides advisory recommendations to the City Council regarding long-range planning concerns and zoning matters.

The next commission meeting is on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at 7:00pm and is typically held in the City Council room and/or Mayor’s conference room at Rye City Hall Hall. The meetings provide a look at upcoming developments in Rye, ensuring community members stay informed about significant property changes and planning decisions.

Its seven members are Nicholas Everett (chair), Andrew Ball, Laura Brett, Dan Bsharat, Rick Schaupp, Steven Secon and Jamie Jensen (councilmember liaison). Read Meet the Planning Commission and its Chair Nick Everett.

The Rye City Council recently delayed consideration of a moratorium on large scale development.

Properties being discussed:

• 21 Locust Avenue – Rye YMCA – Extension of Time
• Kuder Island Colony Waterfront Repairs (Hen Island)
• 154 Stuyvesant Avenue
• 45 Drake Smith Lane
• Rye Arts Center – Advisory Planning Commission Review

The Agenda

There are no hearings and multiple items pending action. Here’s a closer look at the agenda. The commission will review several projects involving residential construction, waterfront restoration, and community facility upgrades.

Here’s a look at what’s on the agenda:

Items Pending Action:

• 21 Locust Avenue – Rye YMCA – Extension of Time
  • SP#402
  • The Rye YMCA is requesting an extension of time for its approved interior alterations that will expand its square footage. The updates will enhance the facility’s capacity and improve community fitness and wellness programs.
  • View project plans
• Kuder Island Colony Waterfront Repairs (Hen Island)
  • Hen Island (North, Middle, and South Hen Island)
  • WP#553
  • Kuder Island Colony, Inc. has submitted a proposal for repairs to flood and erosion control structures along Hen Island’s shoreline. These updates aim to reinforce existing infrastructure against future storms and rising water levels.
  • View project plans

• New Residence at 154 Stuyvesant Avenue
  • WP#557
  • Homeowners Martin & Caroline O’Mahoney are proposing the construction of a new residence that includes a deck, terraced patio, dock, inground pool, and pergola. Given the property’s waterfront location, the Planning Commission will assess its environmental impact.
  • View project plans

• Outdoor Renovations at 45 Drake Smith Lane
  • WP#558
  • Applicant Caitlin Moffett is looking to replace an existing wood deck, stairs, rails, and pergola with a new wood deck and an above-ground spa.
  • View project plans

• Rye Arts Center 25 Milton Road – Advisory Planning Commission Review
  • Advisory Review
  • The Rye Arts Center is undergoing an Advisory Planning Commission Review for proposed updates, including the replacement of a wood deck, stairs, rails, and pergola.
  • View project plans

The commission will also review and approve minutes from prior meetings. Residents can attend and voice their opinions on these projects that may impact the community.

Disclosure: This story was prepared with the assistance of artificial intelligence. Feedback on our stories is welcome.