Zoning OKd in New Rochelle for Iona College Dorms

Through a unanimous vote, the New Rochelle City Council modified the zoning where 's dormitories are located and agreed to work on planning with the college.

The vote occurred at a recent meeting of the City Council.

Councilman Barry Fertel, D-District 5, who represents the district where the college is situated, said a proposed 10-story dormitory set the stage for a collision between Iona and the community, something the adopted legislation should help avoid.

"I firmly believe we can establish a framework for a strong relationship with Iona College and not only the neighborhood but for all of New Rochelle," he said, adding it "hopefully creates a climate of cooperation and progress with the improvement of the area surrounding Iona College, which is in everyone's best interest.

Legislation passed by the council allowed the college to legally house its 850 students in dormitories that were previously not allowed under New Rochelle zoning codes, which only called for 700 students to live in the three existing dorms.

The larger figure was in compliance with state Dormitory Authority and fire code regulations.

In December, Iona had proposed building a dormitory to house about 400 students. Residents in the surrounding neighborhoods talked about concerns about parking, noise, a greater strain on city services and a 10-story building looming over their homes.

In January, Iona produced an outline of environmental concerns which was approved by the City Council.

After completing a draft environmental impact statement, the and with the city will launch a joint planning exercise to look for options and alternatives to address the college's student housing.

Councilman Albert Tarantino, R-District 2, said cooperation between Iona and the City was a long time coming.

"The movement of Iona ... has included the neighborhoods in a friendly fashion where in the past it was shoved down their throats," he said.

A committee of neighborhood representatives and a facilitator to discuss development possibilities will be announced by City Manager Charles Strome III. The committee will include a contingent from Iona College as well.