Eastchester's Planning Board approved the expansion of Crema Cafe at 470 White Plains Road, doubling its seating capacity and adding a service bar with extended hours. The board also advanced two residential projects, applying significant scrutiny to their proposed architectural designs and landscaping details.

What Happened

  • The board approved Crema Cafe's expansion at 470 White Plains Road into an adjacent retail space, allowing the popular cafe to double its indoor seating, add a service bar, and increase outdoor dining capacity with extended evening hours. This decision supports the growth of a successful local business by enabling it to meet increased demand.
  • A new single-family residence proposed for 142 Highland Avenue was referred to the Architectural Review Board (ARB) for a detailed review of its design and exterior materials. This means the ARB will ensure the new home's brick, siding, and roof choices align with neighborhood aesthetics before the Planning Board grants final site plan approval.
  • Renovations and additions at 197 Old Wilmot Road, including an attached garage and front porch, received board approval after prior zoning variances were granted. The approval included specific conditions for either a black standing seam metal roof or a charcoal gray asphalt shingle roof, and a certification of landscaping installation, emphasizing the board's focus on curb appeal.
  • The board granted a third 90-day extension for the 42 Maple Avenue Subdivision, indicating the developer needs more time to fulfill previous conditions for the project.

Project Outcomes

  • Crema Cafe (470 White Plains Road): Expansion approved to double seating, add a service bar, and extend outdoor dining hours, leveraging a parking reduction from the prior use of the adjacent space.
  • 142 Highland Avenue: New single-family residence referred to the Architectural Review Board for review of proposed materials and design.
  • 197 Old Wilmot Road: Renovation and additions approved with conditions for specific roof material options (metal or asphalt shingle) and a landscape architect's certification of plantings.

What's Next

  • The applicant for 142 Highland Avenue must present proposed architectural plans and materials to the Architectural Review Board for their review before returning to the Planning Board.
  • Crema Cafe must secure a New York State Liquor Authority license before it can begin serving alcoholic beverages from its new service bar.
  • Prior to the certificate of occupancy, a landscape architect must certify that all plantings at 197 Old Wilmot Road are installed according to the approved plan.
  • March 26 Planning Board meeting: The board will reconsider applications for Taco Avenue Subdivision, Marbledale Road Subdivision, and Great Day Family Childcare.

Eastchester's Planning Board approved the expansion of Crema Cafe at 470 White Plains Road, doubling its seating capacity and adding a service bar with extended hours. The board also advanced two residential projects, applying significant scrutiny to their proposed architectural designs and landscaping details.