BY PAUL MITCHELLNorth Country This Week

CANTON – The village planning board approved a site plan for the TAUNY-driven plan to erect an archway at the entrance of Prentice Lane on Wednesday night.

The project calls for a decorative arch in the village-owned laneway between Glow Skin Care, 75 Main St., and The Pear Tree, 77 Main St.

TAUNY’s Executive Director Joshua Vink presented a brief overview of the archway project to planning board members.

“The seed idea is building an opportunity for folks to congregate represented by a beautiful decorative arch,” said Vink. “We will be making public spaces into places. It’s a perfect place to put it.”

The arch is a twio-project proposal by TAUNY featuring the artwork of James Gonzalez. The second part is a unique bike rack earmarked near the entrance to TAUNY, 53 Main St. The bike rack would be taken down during the winter months.

A primary concern from the planning board focused on the strength of the support posts for the archway. Vink informed the planning board Wednesday night that the architectural design will embed two steel columns 6 to 8 feet in the ground. The arch would be double sided and approximately 15 feet wide and four feet high.

“It will be structurally sound and will be studied by an engineer to mitigate wind and vandalism,” Vink noted.

Money from  the village’s Main Street grant is targeted to help foot the bill for the two projects.

Ultimate plans for Prentice Lane is to provide some seating and lighting to hold special events.

Marilyn I. Mintener and her husband Brad supported the concept but voiced a few concerns. Mrs. Mintener was worried that tables, chairs and benches left unattended and not anchored down could create a dangerous situation. She also inquired who would be responsible for maintenance and cleanup after an event.

Planning Board chair Barry Walch indicated it would be the village owns Prentice Lane, it would be their responsibility.

“This is future thinking … green light thinking. Chairs, benches and tables are not in the plans right now,” stated Walch.

It was also pointed out the village would install a station to supply electricity.

In regard to the bike rack, Vink mentioned he is still working with the New York State Department of Transportation to finalize placement.