Lake Luzerne's Largest Development in 20 Years Sparks Backlash

Major Concerns Over Luzerne Woods Project

A controversial 18-lot residential development planned for Lake Luzerne, NY is stirring major debate among residents, environmentalists, and local officials.

Dubbed Luzerne Woods, the proposed 33-acre subdivision would be the largest construction project in Lake Luzerne in more than two decades.

However, many locals fear it will bring environmental damage, increased traffic, and overcrowding at the already struggling Camp Teck Beach.

At the Nov. 20 public hearing, tensions were high as residents voiced their opposition, pointing to the threat to the town's aquifer, the impact on Camp Teck Beach, and the lack of transparency in notifying the community.

Project Details & Lead Developer

• Location: Near Route 16, off Lake Tour Road, within the Adirondack Park boundary.

• Size: 33 acres, 18 single-family homes.

• Developer: Eric Moses, a real estate investor from Schenectady, NY.

• Projected Timeline: Six-year phased development.

• Approval Status: Currently under review by the Lake Luzerne Planning Board.

Despite being a significant investment, the backlash from locals has been fierce.

Why Are Residents Pushing Back?

1. Risk to the Town Aquifer & Water Supply

• Many fear that 18 new septic systems near the town’s primary water source could contaminate drinking water.

• Karla Buettner, an attorney representing Camp Teck Road residents, warned:

  • “This is right over the aquifer. The town’s two wells for the water district are right there—wastewater going into the aquifer is a major concern.”

2. Overcrowding & Deterioration of Camp Teck Beach

• Camp Teck Beach, a small, private beach on Lake Luzerne, is already suffering from erosion, water quality issues, and overuse.

• Joan Miraglia, a Lake Luzerne resident, voiced her frustration:

  • “This will be the extinction of a lifestyle enjoyed for generations.”

  • She and other locals worry new homeowners may attempt to claim access to the beach, further straining the limited space.

3. Increased Traffic & Safety Risks

• 30+ new vehicles on narrow, sidewalk-less roads could pose safety hazards to pedestrians and cyclists.

4. Lack of Proper Notification to Seasonal Residents

• Several residents claim the project was proposed in April, yet the majority of affected homeowners weren’t notified until November.

• Kevin Boyd, a longtime Lake Luzerne resident, criticized the timing:

  • “Seasonal residents who pay taxes just like everyone else have been left in the dark.”

Developer’s Response: ‘We Meet All Requirements’

The project’s engineer, Brandon Ferguson of Environmental Design Partnership, defended the plan, saying:

• The New York State Department of Health will oversee the septic system approval process.

• Soil studies show adequate drainage and no immediate threat to the aquifer.

• The development is being designed within all zoning and environmental regulations.

Despite this, many Lake Luzerne, Hadley, and Stony Creek residents remain skeptical.

Environmental Groups Call for a Smaller Development

• Claudia Braymer, Deputy Director of Protect the Adirondacks, submitted two letters to the planning board, urging them to:

  • Reduce the number of lots to limit environmental impact.

  • Improve shoreline protections and preserve more open space.

• Some locals are also calling for a formal Environmental Impact Study before final approvals are granted.

What’s Next?

• The Lake Luzerne Planning Board is set to hold another public hearing in December or January.

• They are waiting on a report from the town engineer before making any final decisions.

• If approved, construction could begin within the next year.

The battle over Luzerne Woods is far from over, and residents are making it clear—they won’t back down without a fight.

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