A large commercial solar project is proposed for 1234 & 1250 Northrup Road—directly behind homes on Ariana Way and Robert Michaels Run. The land is currently zoned for agricultural/rural use and includes a mix of woods and open fields. If approved, this project would bring an industrial solar array, fencing, and an access road right up to residential backyards.

We oppose Application 25P-005 in its current form because of the serious impacts it would have on privacy, views, noise, and property values for neighboring homeowners. Many of us paid significant lot premiums for the wooded setting and natural buffer this land provides. That would be lost.

We support renewable energy and Penfield’s commitment to sustainability—but clean energy projects should not come at the expense of residents’ quality of life. This proposal highlights the need for caution, transparency, and meaningful protections when major environmental disruption and private financial gain are involved.

If the project moves forward, we’re asking the Town to require stronger safeguards, including:

✅ A dense evergreen tree buffer (8–10 feet tall at planting)
✅ An earthen berm to help reduce noise and visibility
✅ A high-quality, natural-toned fence (not chain link or white vinyl)
✅ Noise and construction impact mitigation
✅ Details on long-term access road use and wildlife disruption
✅ Consideration of tax relief or community benefit for impacted homeowners

We’re also concerned about performance. A nearby solar installation on Jackson Road is reportedly operating at just 8% of its expected capacity, according to NYSERDA data—raising questions about community impact versus return.

📅 Public Hearing: Thursday, June 12 at 6:30 PM
📍 Penfield Town Hall – 3100 Atlantic Avenue
📧 You can also share your comments or concerns by emailing: planning@penfield.org

🔗 Full project details: https://www.penfield.org/detail_T12_R738.php
📄 Read our full letter to the Planning Board: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dLOJ0_3fQh52BCHSwRpCJu2fL-m4DJbpjo9nvDJuZwY/edit?usp=sharing

Please sign by Wednesday, June 11 so we can share this with the Town ahead of the meeting. Thank you for your support!