Rye Arts Center Zoning Petition

RAC Zoning Petition

All fields marked with an asterisk (*) are required.

Title *

Description *

Email

Enter your email

Screen name

Screen name

Password Forgot password?

I agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy for using Sentiment & Feedback

Didn't receive confirmation?

Register Now

Seems like you are already registered, please provide the password. Forgot your password? Create a new one now.

Cancel

• Share Comments from Neighbor at 40 Milton Road on Facebook Share Comments from Neighbor at 40 Milton Road on Twitter Share Comments from Neighbor at 40 Milton Road on Linkedin Email Comments from Neighbor at 40 Milton Road link

  Comments from Neighbor at 40 Milton Road

  by Sid Burke, 5 months ago

  November 18, 2025

  Members of the City Council:

  Before you is consideration of a zoning change to allow the use of Arts Center in a residential zone. The proposal was put forward by the Rye Arts Center and ostensibly applies to one property at 25 Milton Road which has been or will be gifted to the Arts Center by a private donor. I live across from the property in question at 40 Milton Road. I have owned the single family residence with my spouse since 2004 – over 20 years now. The house we live in was built in 1850... Continue reading

  November 18, 2025

  Members of the City Council:

  Before you is consideration of a zoning change to allow the use of Arts Center in a residential zone. The proposal was put forward by the Rye Arts Center and ostensibly applies to one property at 25 Milton Road which has been or will be gifted to the Arts Center by a private donor. I live across from the property in question at 40 Milton Road. I have owned the single family residence with my spouse since 2004 – over 20 years now. The house we live in was built in 1850. I have lived in Rye since 1999. I am a landscape architect practicing primarily in New York City. In Rye, I served as chair of the Landmarks Advisory Committee for several years in the 2000’s. I currently serve on the Board of Architecture Review.

  I understand that currently you are considering the amendment to allow for the use change and not a specific site application for any new structure planned by the Rye Arts Center (RAC). You are charged with providing advice to the City Council at this point in time. The use change could apply to other properties in Rye, but practically speaking, it pertains to the property at 25 Milton Road. I presume that the RAC could have applied directly for a use change to the Zoning Board of Appeals with a specific site and architecture plan. Likely, the RAC wants to have some assurance that its proposal will be favorably received before it commits to full architecture and engineering plans.

  As you are well aware a use change is the most significant type of change to zoning. Rather than changing setback or lot allowances it is of much greater consequence. In this case the use change would be significant - from activities by fewer than a dozen people with two or three cars to the use by hundreds of people and scores of cars. Thus you need to consider first whether this is appropriate. What benefit does it provide to allow this use in a residential zone? Is the subject property a good candidate or should it be excluded because it has significant wetland restrictions? Is the use change dependent on being adjacent to public property? In other words, if a site were surrounded by residences on all sides, would the use change be considered? As a reminder, the owner will be a non-profit corporation, not subject to property taxes.

  If you do deem it appropriate, then what additional measures are required to maintain the residential character of the site, the quality of life and property value of the neighbors. If the property is simply allowed to follow the same setback and FAR restrictions as if it were a residence, it is more than likely to have a significant negative impact on the character of the neighborhood, quality of life of its neighbors and property values. I would posit that if a use change is to be allowed then the property should retain a residential character as it will be located in a residential zone. In fact this is the character of the existing Rye Arts Center. It is an adapted residence that citizens of Rye wanted to save and had the insight and determination to convert to an Arts Center. As such it maintains the character of a string of large, single family homes along the east side of Milton Road - one of Rye’s main routes of travel. Of significance, it has a landscaped front yard with parking along the sides and back of the property.

  The preliminary plans available for public view of proposed development at 25 Milton Road are wholly institutional in character. The building is over 60 yards long with 16 parking spaces and a loading zone in the front of the property. It is two stories tall in the front with possibly a lower floor accessible at the back due to grade change. It levels a knoll in the front and removes an over 40” diameter tree for three parking spaces. The space between the existing residence at 25 Milton Road and the current Arts Center has several large trees and numerous trees regenerating as in a natural woodland. I have observed over the years living across the street that this area is a natural flyway for a variety of birds traveling to the swamp behind the tennis courts at Rye Recreaton. It also is a route of travel of deer, fox, skunk, squirrels and a variety of other mammals.

  The improvements will directly impact the neighbor to the north at 15 Milton Road and my property. The neighbor at 15 Milton Road will have a large shed for deliveries 20’ away from his property. I will have an entrance drive directly across my driveway and lose a view of a natural corridor extending almost a quarter mile towards Midland Avenue. Queuing of vehicles along Milton Road to access parking spaces may make it difficult for me to enter or leave my driveway. Technically, 13 of the 16 parking spaces will be outside of the front yard setback, but in reality there will be no front yard as in a typical residence. Instead there will be 42’ by approximately 150’ of asphalt pavement. Light fixtures to illuminate the parking will be spaced approximately every 50 feet. The illumination shown in the rendering by the applicant is a fiction. Accent lighting on a building does not meet code or lighting standards for a parking area. The existing Arts Center Building has very bright flood lights around every side of the structure presumably for security purposes.

  We purchased our home over twenty years ago knowing that we would be living on a busy road. Having an Arts Center and a recreation park across the street was a plus. Situated across from a large residence in a R! Zone and a neighbor on a property that could fit two houses, but only had one was also appealing. I am sure that I would be wary of the change if 25 Milton Road had sold to owners who would build two residences. The leadership at Rye Arts Center did invite us over to meet with them in the fall last year to discuss their plans. We expressed many of the same concerns indicated here. It is admirable that the RAC and its donors want to invest more in an important community resource. I am just wary of the impact given that the plans seem to indicate that 25 Milton will become the primary hub of the Arts Center rather than the existing building. As such it appears as a large institution almost as a corporate headquarters with a large building mass fronted by parking. If it were instead planned as an auxiliary building with the current building serving the main function, then the constraints of having no buildable area or area for parking in the back due to the wetland and wetland buffer might be overcome.

  I ask you to carefully consider whether it is appropriate to allow this use in a residential district and whether it is right for this property in particular given the environmental constraints on it. If you do recommend to the City Council that it is appropriate, then consider what additional regulations beyond those typical for a residence should be applied. These measures include additional setbacks or reduction of the allowable FAR based on the percentage of the property that is within the wetland buffer. Key issues are the mass of the building and the extent of parking in the front. If it is allowed close to what is shown on preliminary plans then, in my opinion, the development will be out of character with its residential setting along a principal avenue of Rye. It also will likely have a negative impact personally on our quality of life and the property value of our home.

  Thank you for consideration of my thoughts on this issue in respect to my position as a neighbor to the property in question, and also as a professional who has served and currently serves in a review role On the Board of Architecture Review for the City of Rye.

  Respectfully,

  T. Patrick (Sid) Burke
• Share Memo to Rye City Council from Blind Brook Lodge Owners, Inc. 66 Milton Road 11/1/25 on Facebook Share Memo to Rye City Council from Blind Brook Lodge Owners, Inc. 66 Milton Road 11/1/25 on Twitter Share Memo to Rye City Council from Blind Brook Lodge Owners, Inc. 66 Milton Road 11/1/25 on Linkedin Email Memo to Rye City Council from Blind Brook Lodge Owners, Inc. 66 Milton Road 11/1/25 link

  Memo to Rye City Council from Blind Brook Lodge Owners, Inc. 66 Milton Road 11/1/25

  by David Barton, 5 months ago

  Residents of 66 Milton Road, Rye NY, object to the Rye Arts Center’s attorney’s response to the August 27^th Planning Commission Memorandum to the City Council for several reasons and we would like to be included in the public hearing on this matter.

  1. Parking Concerns: The memo acknowledges that the proposed parking requirement of 3 spaces per 1,000 square feet is reasonable but also notes that the Planning Commission could waive or reduce on-site parking requirements if sufficient public parking is available nearby. Residents of 66 Milton Road worry that this could lead to increased parking congestion in... Continue reading

  Residents of 66 Milton Road, Rye NY, object to the Rye Arts Center’s attorney’s response to the August 27^th Planning Commission Memorandum to the City Council for several reasons and we would like to be included in the public hearing on this matter.

  1. Parking Concerns: The memo acknowledges that the proposed parking requirement of 3 spaces per 1,000 square feet is reasonable but also notes that the Planning Commission could waive or reduce on-site parking requirements if sufficient public parking is available nearby. Residents of 66 Milton Road worry that this could lead to increased parking congestion in the area, particularly when the municipal parking lot at 51 Milton Road becomes overcrowded.
  2. Traffic Impact: The supplemental parking study indicates that the peak parking demand for the Rye Arts Center is during weekday evenings, which could lead to increased traffic and noise during those hours. We are concerned about the impact on public safety and our quality of life, as the area inevitably becomes busier and noisier due to events at their new facility.
  3. Aesthetic Concerns: The memo advises against granting the Planning Commission authority to review the aesthetics of the proposed structure, leaving this responsibility solely to the Board of Architectural Review. We feel that the Planning Commission should have a say in ensuring the new Arts Center aligns with the character and aesthetics of the surrounding area, particularly we believe the new facility will negatively impact the neighborhood's visual appeal.
  4. Potential Overcrowding: The memo supports limiting the Arts Center use to larger residential districts (R-1, R-2, and R-3), but the residents of 66 Milton Road worry about the impact of the new facility on the density and character of our neighborhood, especially when the Arts Center attracts large crowds for events.
  5. Environmental Concerns: The memo mentions efforts to avoid impacts within the wetland buffer, but we have concerns about potential environmental effects, such as increased runoff and disruption to the natural landscape.
  6. Public Interest and Input: While the memo requests a public hearing to gather input, we feel that our concerns have not been adequately addressed in response to the Planning Commission Memorandum, particularly we believe the proposed zoning text amendment prioritizes the interests of the Rye Arts Center over those of neighboring property owners and the community at large.

  In summary, residents of 66 Milton Road object to the Rye Arts Center’s response to the August 27 Planning Commission comments due to concerns about parking, traffic, aesthetics, neighborhood character, environmental impact, and whether our voices will be adequately heard in the decision-making process.

  We thank you for your consideration in this.

  Sincerely,

  The Board of Directors

  Blind Brook Lodge Owners, Inc.

  Sarah O’Keefe, President David Kent, Treasurer

  Hope Bernard, Vice President John Johnson, Secretary

  David Barton, Director
• Share Message from The Board of Directors, Blind Brook Lodge Owners Inc., 66 Milton Road on Facebook Share Message from The Board of Directors, Blind Brook Lodge Owners Inc., 66 Milton Road on Twitter Share Message from The Board of Directors, Blind Brook Lodge Owners Inc., 66 Milton Road on Linkedin Email Message from The Board of Directors, Blind Brook Lodge Owners Inc., 66 Milton Road link

  Message from The Board of Directors, Blind Brook Lodge Owners Inc., 66 Milton Road

  by David Barton, 8 months ago

  The July 15^th meeting of the Rye City Planning Commission concluded with the Commission stating that they would prepare a memo for the August Rye City Council meeting summarizing their recommendations for the Rye Arts Center (RAC) regarding their proposed zoning amendment to permit an Arts Center Use standard, and the RACs intended use of the 25 Milton Road site.

  We ask that this memo be made available for public comment prior to any further action by the Planning Commission or City Council on this matter, and that you continue to maintain complete transparency in the review process.

  We... Continue reading

  The July 15^th meeting of the Rye City Planning Commission concluded with the Commission stating that they would prepare a memo for the August Rye City Council meeting summarizing their recommendations for the Rye Arts Center (RAC) regarding their proposed zoning amendment to permit an Arts Center Use standard, and the RACs intended use of the 25 Milton Road site.

  We ask that this memo be made available for public comment prior to any further action by the Planning Commission or City Council on this matter, and that you continue to maintain complete transparency in the review process.

  We also wish to repeat that we adamantly disapprove of the Rye Art Center’s proposal because of its negative impact on public safety, the 25 Milton Road adjacent residential community, and the long-term sustainability of the City of Rye.

  We thank the Planning Commission and City Council for your ongoing consideration of these important issues for the Rye community.

  Sincerely,

  The Board of Directors

  Blind Brook Lodge Owners, Inc.

  Sarah O’Keefe, President David Kent, Treasurer

  Hope Bernard, Vice President John Johnson, Secretary

  David Barton
• Share Message from Members of the Board of the RAC on Facebook Share Message from Members of the Board of the RAC on Twitter Share Message from Members of the Board of the RAC on Linkedin Email Message from Members of the Board of the RAC link

  Message from Members of the Board of the RAC

  by Members of the RAC Board, 12 months ago

  Dear Rye Community,

  The Rye Arts Center, a beloved non-profit that has proudly served the Rye community since 1960, now stands at the threshold of a transformational, once-in-a-generation opportunity. With the generous gift of property at 25 Milton Road and the significant support of our donors, this expansion addresses limitations of the current building at 51 Milton Road, which affect the quality and scope of programs currently offered. We are excited to create a world-class cultural hub for the arts - one that will inspire, engage, and uplift the community for generations to come.

  This project aims to build a... Continue reading

  Dear Rye Community,

  The Rye Arts Center, a beloved non-profit that has proudly served the Rye community since 1960, now stands at the threshold of a transformational, once-in-a-generation opportunity. With the generous gift of property at 25 Milton Road and the significant support of our donors, this expansion addresses limitations of the current building at 51 Milton Road, which affect the quality and scope of programs currently offered. We are excited to create a world-class cultural hub for the arts - one that will inspire, engage, and uplift the community for generations to come.

  This project aims to build a new facility alongside the existing one, providing a first-class arts education and opportunities for all ages. Highlights include a fully outfitted RAC Makerspace, world-class gallery, dedicated teen studio, and two acres of expanded green space. This will enhance the experience for our members, students, and visitors, creating a vibrant community and multi-arts center for all.

  Building on its history of community engagement and impactful programs such as Head Start and Dance for Parkinson's, the RAC is actively involving the community in refining its vision. While we are currently navigating the zoning process with the City Council and gathering neighbor input, the RAC is also addressing potential parking and traffic needs with an engineering firm.

  We are committed to creating a place that will be a lasting source of pride for the Rye community - a place where creativity thrives, connections are built, and everyone can enjoy the unique benefits of the arts for years to come. Our current designs are still in the conceptual phase, and we will refine them after the zoning approval. In the meantime, we invite the community to join us as we work together to create a space that reflects the heart of Rye and that will truly benefit all through the Arts.

  
  

  Members of the Board of The Rye Arts Center

  Heath Abramsohn

  Simone Bonnet

  Michael Collins

  Joe DeVita

  Ania Dunlop

  Ariel Eckstein

  Tina Exarhos

  Michelle Froah

  Sonia Hounsell

  Shami Kini

  Hayley Nivelle

  Eileen Neiman

  Judith Passannante

  Jennifer Sandling

  Tom Stokes

  Rita Tino-Longo

  Amy Vijayanagar

  Whitney Whipple
• Share Enthusiastic Support for the Rye Arts Center Expansion Proposal on Facebook Share Enthusiastic Support for the Rye Arts Center Expansion Proposal on Twitter Share Enthusiastic Support for the Rye Arts Center Expansion Proposal on Linkedin Email Enthusiastic Support for the Rye Arts Center Expansion Proposal link

  Enthusiastic Support for the Rye Arts Center Expansion Proposal

  by Tina Exarhos, about 1 year ago

  I enthusiastically support the RAC expansion proposal, which I wholeheartedly believe will serve our community in new and exciting ways. As a long-standing board member and parent of two (now grown) children who benefited from music, art, theater and dance programs at the Rye Arts Center, I am confident that the expansion would only enhance the world-class programming that this important Rye institution offers.

  Through improved educational facilities, cultural offerings (a striking gallery, music and performing arts spaces), a fantastic after-school space for teens, an upgraded makers studio and so much more, the new Rye Arts Center will benefit our... Continue reading

  I enthusiastically support the RAC expansion proposal, which I wholeheartedly believe will serve our community in new and exciting ways. As a long-standing board member and parent of two (now grown) children who benefited from music, art, theater and dance programs at the Rye Arts Center, I am confident that the expansion would only enhance the world-class programming that this important Rye institution offers.

  Through improved educational facilities, cultural offerings (a striking gallery, music and performing arts spaces), a fantastic after-school space for teens, an upgraded makers studio and so much more, the new Rye Arts Center will benefit our community and county in a meaningful way.

  The planning for this expansion has been deeply thoughtful and deliberate, taking into consideration any and all potential impact on the surrounding neighborhood. This new and improved Rye Arts Center will enrich us all and serve generations to come.

  
  
• Share Concerned BBL Neighbor on Facebook Share Concerned BBL Neighbor on Twitter Share Concerned BBL Neighbor on Linkedin Email Concerned BBL Neighbor link

  Concerned BBL Neighbor

  by Lp, about 1 year ago

  My concern with the RAC expansion project is the parking and traffic congestion for 66 Milton Road, BBL, which I where I am an owner. The congestion on Milton Road, during school hours and camp hours is significant. There have been days when I have tried to drive out of the BBL driveway and cannot get out onto Milton Road. The traffic was even worse when the construction project on Milton Road between BBL and Parsons Street were in process. There are times when I have to wait to cross the street to go to our gardens, when cars drive... Continue reading

  My concern with the RAC expansion project is the parking and traffic congestion for 66 Milton Road, BBL, which I where I am an owner. The congestion on Milton Road, during school hours and camp hours is significant. There have been days when I have tried to drive out of the BBL driveway and cannot get out onto Milton Road. The traffic was even worse when the construction project on Milton Road between BBL and Parsons Street were in process. There are times when I have to wait to cross the street to go to our gardens, when cars drive through the flashing crossing lights. I cannot even imagine back up of traffic from the traffic circle near the Palisades/Grace Church/Boston Post Road. The parking and traffic needs to be addressed, sole access cannot be just be from Milton Road. It is unfair to those of us who live across from RAC. I have benefited from the RAC by attending classes and going to exhibits and believe it adds to our community. We need a viable solution.
• Share The Rye Arts Center is the jewel in the Crown of Rye and elevates us above other leading Westchester communites on Facebook Share The Rye Arts Center is the jewel in the Crown of Rye and elevates us above other leading Westchester communites on Twitter Share The Rye Arts Center is the jewel in the Crown of Rye and elevates us above other leading Westchester communites on Linkedin Email The Rye Arts Center is the jewel in the Crown of Rye and elevates us above other leading Westchester communites link

  The Rye Arts Center is the jewel in the Crown of Rye and elevates us above other leading Westchester communites

  by Fiona Dogan, about 1 year ago
  I am writing to express my strong support from the new and enhanced Rye Arts Center proposal. I am Rye resident of 26 years and my 3 children all attended multiple excellent programs at the RAC. I personally am a prominent and very active Realtor in Rye and I use the Rye Arts Center every day as an example to my incoming buyer clients of the excellent community and lifestyle amenities Rye has to offer, and why the RAC sets us apart from, and elevates us above neighboring communities.

  
  

  
  

  I cannot speak highly enough to how much my own 3... Continue reading

  I am writing to express my strong support from the new and enhanced Rye Arts Center proposal. I am Rye resident of 26 years and my 3 children all attended multiple excellent programs at the RAC. I personally am a prominent and very active Realtor in Rye and I use the Rye Arts Center every day as an example to my incoming buyer clients of the excellent community and lifestyle amenities Rye has to offer, and why the RAC sets us apart from, and elevates us above neighboring communities.

  
  

  
  

  I cannot speak highly enough to how much my own 3 children, and my clients families have benefited over the years from their music, performing arts, painting classes and STEM offerings. For incoming families the RAC offers a rare and valuable alternative to the typical sports programs available for kids. I am often asked " My kid is not into sports, what else can they do after school or for camp or as an extra-curricular?" I am thrilled to be able to point to the Rye Arts Center and show that we are not a one-dimensional "one size fits all" sports town, and that the kids and adults in this town and surrounding communities have high-level alternative ARTS and STEM choices to broaden their horizons. As far as the footprint and design goes, I am big fan of progress and change. I believe we can all be forward looking and still honor our New England traditions. I have every confidence, as the population of Rye continues to grow with vibrant young families, that the RAC will work extremely diligently with the City of Rye government and local residents to come up with a proposal that will honor Rye traditions, fit in with the surrounding community and bring nothing but patronage, accolades and applause from our town and our neighboring communities. I am available at any time to discuss this in person if desired.
• Share A NO VOTE OVER TRAFFIC SAFETY CONCERNS FOR RYE ARTS CENTER EXPANSION on Facebook Share A NO VOTE OVER TRAFFIC SAFETY CONCERNS FOR RYE ARTS CENTER EXPANSION on Twitter Share A NO VOTE OVER TRAFFIC SAFETY CONCERNS FOR RYE ARTS CENTER EXPANSION on Linkedin Email A NO VOTE OVER TRAFFIC SAFETY CONCERNS FOR RYE ARTS CENTER EXPANSION link

  A NO VOTE OVER TRAFFIC SAFETY CONCERNS FOR RYE ARTS CENTER EXPANSION

  by Mary Stenger, about 1 year ago

  I am writing because I have grave concerns about the proposed expansion of the RAC. As a Blind Brook Lodge resident I am very familiar with the safety hazards all along the stretch of Milton Road from Firemen's Circle to Rye High School. It seems ludicrous to believe that this expansion will seamlessly fit into an already congested area. While living here I have witnessed many near misses on the crosswalks as well as the sidewalks. There are several handicapped and at least one blind resident who regularly use these crosswalks.

  To be clear I have been a fan of... Continue reading

  I am writing because I have grave concerns about the proposed expansion of the RAC. As a Blind Brook Lodge resident I am very familiar with the safety hazards all along the stretch of Milton Road from Firemen's Circle to Rye High School. It seems ludicrous to believe that this expansion will seamlessly fit into an already congested area. While living here I have witnessed many near misses on the crosswalks as well as the sidewalks. There are several handicapped and at least one blind resident who regularly use these crosswalks.

  To be clear I have been a fan of the RAC since moving to Rye many years ago. I had a great experience taking an oil painting class with Elizabeth Derderian. However, in the past year or so, I returned from vacation to see what looked like garbage strewn across the lawn ar RAC. After several days I was heading over to clean it up myself when a neighbor told me it was actually an art installation. Unfortunately it stayed for months and was an eyesore out my living room windows - that might have been the point but the length of time it was there was inconsiderate to the neighbors across the street. The glaring lighting in front seemed to make it worse. I think those lights would work better in the darker back parking lot.

  In addition, I personally think the quite modern building doesn't seem to have enough of a relationship with the beautiful older architecture of the neighborhood that most of us enjoy living with in this very busy part of Rye.

  My only conclusion is that the RAC doesn't care enough about its neighbors and the safety of everyone who uses this busy thoroughfare every day. I am not in favor of their plans for expansion.
• Share Mrs. Nancy M. Johnson on Facebook Share Mrs. Nancy M. Johnson on Twitter Share Mrs. Nancy M. Johnson on Linkedin Email Mrs. Nancy M. Johnson link

  Mrs. Nancy M. Johnson

  by NJohnson710, about 1 year ago

  To the RAC Planning Committee,

  Currently my husband and I are residents at Blind Brook Lodge, across the street from the Rye Arts Center. This seems to be an art center that offers opportunities for people of various ages, especially children. While I understand the generous gift for an expansion of the art center would be nice, the placement of the proposed expansion would be disastrous for the surrounding community.

  People move to Rye because they want a tranquil environment without the noise and congestion of traffic. Milton is a 2 lane street that is congested during various times of... Continue reading

  To the RAC Planning Committee,

  Currently my husband and I are residents at Blind Brook Lodge, across the street from the Rye Arts Center. This seems to be an art center that offers opportunities for people of various ages, especially children. While I understand the generous gift for an expansion of the art center would be nice, the placement of the proposed expansion would be disastrous for the surrounding community.

  People move to Rye because they want a tranquil environment without the noise and congestion of traffic. Milton is a 2 lane street that is congested during various times of the day. Parking is challenging enough the way it is so enlarging the footprint of the center along with a parking lot will very much ruin the aesthetic of the town.

  We moved here for the charm. Please don't cheapen the look.

  Sincerely,

  
  

  Nancy Johnson

  
  
• Share Supporting the Rye Arts Center expansion plans Wholehe(art)edly! on Facebook Share Supporting the Rye Arts Center expansion plans Wholehe(art)edly! on Twitter Share Supporting the Rye Arts Center expansion plans Wholehe(art)edly! on Linkedin Email Supporting the Rye Arts Center expansion plans Wholehe(art)edly! link

  Supporting the Rye Arts Center expansion plans Wholehe(art)edly!

  by Meera Agarwal, about 1 year ago

  Dear Rye City Council and community members,

  I have been involved with The Rye Arts Center (RAC) for the past decade - as a proud volunteer, visual artist member, Rye'sAbove and Rye Poetry Path public art contributor and art instructor. The RAC is an inclusive, warm community and provides a plethora of artistic offerings, giving us all a much needed creative haven, contributing to our social and emotional well being. I have personally heard numerous testimonials from friends and students about how participating in the arts at the RAC has transformed them.

  The Rye Arts Center is a true gem... Continue reading

  Dear Rye City Council and community members,

  I have been involved with The Rye Arts Center (RAC) for the past decade - as a proud volunteer, visual artist member, Rye'sAbove and Rye Poetry Path public art contributor and art instructor. The RAC is an inclusive, warm community and provides a plethora of artistic offerings, giving us all a much needed creative haven, contributing to our social and emotional well being. I have personally heard numerous testimonials from friends and students about how participating in the arts at the RAC has transformed them.

  The Rye Arts Center is a true gem of our community, enriching lives through its comprehensive offerings in the visual, performing, and musical arts, as well as its innovative STEM and STEAM programs. As a thought leader in the arts, the RAC has not only fostered creativity but has also provided inclusive programming for all ages, from young learners to seniors. Its specialized initiatives, such as Dance for Parkinson’s, exemplify its commitment to accessibility and well-being. Public art initiatives like Rye'sAbove butterfly installation and the Rye Poetry Path enrich lives of Rye residents and instill a pride of our shared spaces.
  
  Approving the expansion plans is essential to ensuring that RAC can continue to grow and serve the community at the highest level. With state-of-the-art facilities including 2 acres of green spaces, the RAC will be able to expand its reach, elevate its programming, and solidify its role as a cultural and educational cornerstone of Rye, NY. Investing in this expansion is an investment in the future of our community, making RAC a lasting source of pride for generations to come.

  Thank you & sincerely,

  Meera

  (www.MeeraWorldArt.com)