Luther Forest begins development and deforestation

Source: NEWS10 ABC
Author: Anthony Krolikowski

MALTA, N.Y. (NEWS10) -The slogan of Luther Forest is "to live in a forest". Just like some of its trees, the sign depicting the motto has also been cut down. Plans to develop the area are starting with Dunning Place houses and townhouses.

NEWS10's Anthony Krolikowski first met with members of Save Luther Forest in 2023 as a 6,000-square-foot building was proposed for a new State Police Troop G barracks. Members of the community action committee said they first learned of plans to create Dunning Place while canvasing the neighborhood.

"At the time, we didn't realize it was going to be clear-cut and devastate the forest like it has. We continued to focus on the barracks, but this was a wake-up call," described Joan Salvi with the Save Luther Forest Community Action Committee.

Residents stated the property for the future homes is private, but they still wanted to be involved with the Town of Malta's decisions around Luther Forest. Town Supervisor Cynthia Young responded to NEWS10 on the subdivision:

"I know it is hard seeing trees coming down, but Dunning Place is fully zoning compliant. The project was approved in 2022. Municipalities can't legally deny projects that meet the zoning they put in place. The zoning that pertains to this project was adopted in 2013."

Councilman Matthew McLoughlin wants the Town to reconsider their zoning laws. "Growth's inevitable. And figure out how this future growth can be managed where we keep the aesthetics and characteristics of Malta."

Also on Dunning Street, is the future location of the new trooper barracks. The parcel of land was bought for one dollar from the Town. Trooper Stephanie O'Neil confirmed the plans to NEWS10:

"The State Police is still proceeding with the building of the new Malta Barracks on Dunning Street. The acquisition of the Dunning Street property started several years ago and is now complete. The plan to construct a State Police Station on the property was first approved at the local level and subsequently approved at the State level of government."

GlobalFoundries is expanding in Malta as well. NEWS10 previously reported a second chip FAB plant will be built following a $1.5B grant from the federal government that's expected to bring in 1,500 new jobs. NEWS10 contacted the company for an update on the project and is awaiting a response.

"There's definitely an economy boost but it comes with a major drawback. The drawback is that our natural areas are getting destroyed and unless we do something about it and band together as citizens, this is never going to stop," explained Thomas McNamara with the Save Luther Forest Community Action Committee.