Neighbors, patients, staff and maybe even the entire Village of Schoharie turned out Tuesday to get behind Hazem Elbialy’s expansion plans at his Schoharie Dental.
Dr. Elbialy is seeking Planning Board approval to demolish the home next door to offices--235 Main Street, vacant since it was flooded out by Hurricane Irene--and turn it into an 18-lot paved and screened parking lot.
He’s also seeking to add a 20-seat waiting room onto 229 Main Street—the former Main Bridge—on the south side of the building.
The Planning Board is taking written comments on the proposals until September 5, but the sentiment at Tuesday’s public hearing was overwhelmingly in favor of the project.
Dr. Elbialy said the expansion is needed to accommodate his clients; he and the two other dentists and hygienists at the practice regularly see more than 220 patients a day; in total, they have about 27,000 patients, he said, pointing out that by way of comparison, Schoharie County’s population is about 30,000.
Schoharie Dental employees about 30, he said, in answer to a question from the crowd; the expansion will boost that number to about 49.
Neighbor Ruth Anne Wilkinson was the first to speak in the project’s favor.
“I like that you put the community first,” she said, of the renovations on the once-grand Main Bridge. “I was one of those who was nervous. I was the one who attacked you in your backyard. But you’ve done great things.”
Ms. Wilkinson and others, though, wondered if the 18 additional parking spaces will be enough—or if it will just be a Band-Aid, and suggested Dr. Elbialy consider the old Great American across the street as he continues to grow.
Others had the same suggestion; Dr. Elbialy said he’s researching all of his options if he runs out of space and didn’t rule out the Great American.
Several in the audience of about 40 pointed out that Schoharie Dental is by far the village’s largest employer, attracting young families who come to work and then stay; others—including a half-dozen members of Dr. Elbialy’s staff—said custumers visit downtown restaurants and businesses after their appointments.
The expansion, staff added, will make it easier for both them and patients, speeding up wait times and making it easier to find parking.
“Dr. Elbialy has fulfilled his duty to the community,” said neighbor Joe Bozicevich; speaking not as mayor, but as a resident, Larry Caza said he’s thrilled by the plans.
“The very neighbors around him are here tonight,” he pointed out. “His projects do fit well in the village.”
But Peter Johnson, another neighbor, said while he’s not opposed to the project, he’s concerned about the additional traffic and danger to pedestrians.
“The intersection [Main and Bridge Streets] is dangerous,” he said.
That led to a discussion over a stop light and additional crosswalks; Mayor Caza said a crosswalk from Firman across Main is imminent, but they’ve been unable to convince DOT of the need for flashing lights like those along Route 7 at SUNY Cobleskill.
Rhonda Sacket said she’s concerned about the loss of housing if 235 Main is demolished.
Written comments on the project can be submitted to Village Clerk at villscho@midtel.net until September 5.