Dannon drops bid for access drive

MINSTER - Dannon officials have opted not to pursue a new access drive on East First Street.

Officials have submitted a zoning request for the construction of a new distribution center east of the existing facility but decided to drop the driveway request after learning most residents living nearby opposed it, senior director of public relations Michael Neuwirth told the newspaper on Monday.

"After hosting an open meeting last week to share the project and understand any concerns about the potential impact of this access road to residents in the First Street area, we have decided to remove the ... access road ... request while we work to address these concerns," Neuwirth said.

Company leaders will meet with village officials to come up with an alternate drive location, he said, adding the decision was motivated by the company's respect for the neighbors.

"This access road would have been for passenger vehicles only while all truck traffic and most Dannon employee traffic would have continued to use Southgate Drive," Neuwirth said. "We believe this flow of passenger and truck traffic is in the best safety interests for all."

Village administrator Don Harrod has previously said village council members would have final say on allowing an access drive.

Further discussion about the Dannon project could happen during the next council meeting at 6 p.m. today in council chambers.