Proposed Scriba Sports Complex: Community Concerns
Scriba, NY – On Wednesday April 8th, the citizens of Scriba gathered at the for their annual Town Hall meeting to discuss major projects on the horizon, the main topic of discussion; A proposed sports complex built on top of an existing plot of land just off of route 481 on Dutch Ridge road from local entrepreneur Rich Burritt.
The first major worry brought forth by the community was surrounding traffic concerns that may come along with the construction of a new facility that includes a driveway leading out onto an already problematic intersection; an intersection quoted as “the most dangerous intersection in the county,” by a concerned member of the community.
Burritt, who lives a mile away from the intersection, doesn’t recall any personal experiences surrounding traffic in the area and reassured the room that the proposed complex won’t be adding anything extra traffic that wasn’t there prior.
Burritt did however agree that there is an issue concerning proper signage and speed limits. The owner of the property across the street from the proposed complex shared his own experiences.
“I’ve called the police several times because people are doing 100 down the road… I’ve lived here for several years, and I’ve seen four huge accidents.”
Burritt promised that he will do everything in his power to work towards getting the proper signage and speed limits put in place.
The same resident also stated how he doesn’t want more clutter on his property. The resident said he is fine with the new construction, but he doesn’t want more of a headache trying to maintain his properties value.
The resident then went on to speak about some issues he already faces, like local students wandering onto his property and garbage build up that he is responsible for cleaning. The resident also raised concerns surrounding his dogs who have grown up on the property with no leashes.
Burritt promised the property owner that he will make sure to be a good neighbor and went on to reassure the room, “I would have the same concerns if I was in your shoes. Obviously there will never be a perfect scenario, but we will get these issues solved.”
Near the end of the meeting, many residents noted how they are excited for this complex. One resident highlighted her appreciation for Burritts plans for an indoor track in the complex. She noted how thankful she is to not only have a place to run in the winter, but also spoke on the posotive impacts the complex will have on the local youth.
Regardless of the concerns raised throughout the meeting, the common consensus seems to be that the complex will be filling a huge gap in terms of youth sports, traveling teams, and this facility is a net good.
