To the Editor:

I am writing today regarding Stewart’s plans for its new building on Main Street in the village of Altamont.

As many citizens, Historic Albany Foundation is pleased when businesses thrive and see the need to expand. However, expansion needs to be consistent with the needs of employees, customers, the general public, and the built environment and community in which that business is located.

And, Altamont is beloved by citizens and visitors alike for its history and charm.

Any new construction or expansion should reflect the immediate environment of the community. While the new Stewart's is not located directly within the outlined historic district, that doesn’t mean that thought and care with design should not be considered or followed.

Being near to the historic district, and located at a major intersection of the village should mandate a pleasing and appropriate attention to detail with design.

Cues and design details can and should be taken from the structures already in place in the historic district, especially with regard to roof line, architectural detailing and overall pleasing appearance to fit in rather than stand out in an inappropriate manner, for example the library, Altamont Corners, and the Bella Fleur buildings.

Historic Albany Foundation strongly urges the planning board to request that Stewart’s redraft its design to better fit the overall character and history of the village of Altamont. 

Pamela Howard

Executive Director

Historic Albany Foundation