SCHOHARIE - The Town of Schoharie has officially launched the Schoharie Gateway planning process, a strategic initiative designed to shape the future of the 1-88 Exit 23 interchange. To kick off the project, the Town will host its first public workshop at 7pm on June 17th at the Christ the Shepherd Lutheran Church in Schoharie - inviting residents and stakeholders to share their vision for this vital community entrance. More information about the project is available on the project website at schohariegatewayplan.com
The project is supported by $90,000 in funding from the New York State Department of State Smart Growth Grant. This grant program, administered by the Office of Planning, Development & Community Infrastructure (OPDCI) and funded via the Environmental Protection Fund, assists municipalities in adopting zoning standards that integrate Smart Growth principles, which focus on promoting equity, economic resilience, environmental stewardship, and climate-conscious development.
The Gateway Area encompasses approximately 350 acres at the Exit 23 interchange, serving as the primary and most visible entrance to the Schoharie Valley. Because this district defines the first impression for visitors and residents alike, the Town is seeking to balance new economic opportunities with the preservation of its unique local identity. A key outcome of this process will be the creation of a design-based zoning code, a modern regulatory tool that moves beyond traditional zoning to ensure new construction respects Schoharie's historic and agricultural character while protecting environmental resources and scenic views, such as those of Terrace Mountain.
This initiative originated from a key recommendation in the 2025 Schoharie Comprehensive Plan calling for a Gateway Area Plan. Unlike conventional zoning, which primarily regulates land use, the proposed design-based framework will focus on the look and feel of the built environment, providing predictable results for how buildings relate to the street and the surrounding landscape.
"The 1-88 Exit 23 interchange is the front door to our community, and its future development is key to Schoharie's growth," said Town of Schoharie Supervisor Benjamin Oevering. "By adopting this new regulatory approach, we are taking a proactive step to guide future development so that it is thoughtful and sustainable. We want to welcome new investment while keeping Schoharie a beautiful, welcoming place, and we hope our residents will join us at this workshop to share their thoughts."
This introductory workshop combines a project overview with small group discussions to encourage hands-on, collaborative planning. The primary objective is to build a shared gateway vision and confirm which vital local resources need protection. By participating, community members can gain valuable insights into the study and provide their feedback directly to local leaders, the Zoning Advisory Committee, and the consulting team.
The first public workshop will be held on June 17, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM at Christ the Shepherd Lutheran Church, located at 289 Main Street in Schoharie.
For those unable to attend in person, the project team will launch a digital Project Survey on June 17 at the project website listed below to capture broader community feedback. Additional opportunities for public engagement will be announced as the planning process progresses.
To stay updated on the Gateway Area Plan, track project progress, take the survey, and view upcoming public engagement opportunities, please visit schohariegatewayplan.com.
For specific questions, you can reach out to Town of Schoharie Supervisor Ben Oevering at schoharie.supervisor@co.schoharie.ny.us, or Project Manager Matthew Rogers of LaBella Associates at mrogers@labellapc.com.
