The Gateway Business District is created to recognize the existing
business uses that occupy the entrance to the historic Village of
Rhinebeck adjacent to the Town of Rhinebeck. The standards established
below are designed to encourage architecture compatible with historic
Rhinebeck. As the uses in the Gateway Business District evolve, high-quality
landscaping is encouraged to unify the district. Improved pedestrian
access between the businesses should be encouraged to reduce vehicle
trips, and signage should be brought into compliance.
A.
Apartments in the Gateway Business District. Buildings in the Gateway
Business District may have apartments as a subordinate use to the
primary ground floor use subject to the following provisions:
(1)
The habitable area of each apartment shall be at least 500 square
feet.
(2)
Each apartment shall be a separate dwelling unit with provisions
for complete living, including kitchen, sanitary and sleeping facilities
for year-round use by one family.
(3)
Apartments shall not be located in the front half of the first floor
of the building, and each apartment shall contain all services for
safe and convenient habitation meeting the New York State Fire, Building,
Health and Environmental Codes.
(4)
Apartments shall have access to the outside of the building which
must be distinct from the access to uses on the first floor.
B.
Site plan review.
(1)
All building and zoning permit applications in the GB District shall
be subject to site plan approval. Preexisting nonconformities with
this chapter shall be reduced to the maximum extent practicable.
(2)
During site plan review, the Planning Board may require vehicle or
pedestrian interconnections between neighboring properties in order
to protect the safety of the public and to reduce congestion. Sidewalks
are required along the primary street frontages.
(3)
Buildings in the GB District shall be located, designed, constructed,
landscaped and decorated so that the appearance of the principal building
creates a positive impression for the entry to the Village.
(4)
All use conversions/site modifications shall respect the vernacular
architectural and landscape design of the Village setting, history
and surroundings. Any improvements shall be completed in a style compatible
with historic Rhinebeck.
C.
Parking.
(1)
Uses that generate vehicular visits must provide adequate parking in accord with the parking chart shown in § 120-16 and in a manner and style that enhances the entrance to the Village.
(2)
Parking shall be located behind the front plane of the principal
structure on the lot or behind the building, and it shall be suitably
buffered with plantings and/or fencing.
