Q&A: JC Calderon on the future of Fishkill Avenue

The Fishkill Avenue Concepts committee will hold a community feedback meeting on Sunday March 9. Taking place at Industrial Arts Brewing Company from 2-5pm, the session will include a presentation and an opportunity for residents and business owners to share ideas that will inform the city’s vision for the Route 52 corridor. 

Ahead of that meeting, Beaconites spoke with JC Calderon, an architect and former planning board member who is chair of the ad-hoc committee. 

This interview is the latest in our series of text-based Q&As.  

Beaconites: For those who may not remember, what was the charter of the Fishkill Avenue Concepts Committee, and how do you assess its progress so far?

JC Calderon: Thanks, Zach. The committee was formed by the mayor after the city council had discussions on Fishkill Avenue but couldn’t reach a consensus on potential changes. The goal, as outlined in the mayor’s memorandum from November 2023, was to work with the city planner to develop concepts, drawings, and proposals for the corridor. This included considerations for a rail trail, a road connector, and linkages to the Beacon Lofts, Fishkill Creek, and the Greenway Trail.

In terms of progress, I think we’ve made substantial headway. We meet once a month, which isn’t as frequent as some committees, but we’ve focused on truly understanding the existing conditions—both physically and in terms of zoning—before making recommendations. It’s been a methodical process, and I believe that will result in better outcomes.

Beaconites: Was the committee’s formation prompted by Healy Brothers vacating their properties on Fishkill Avenue?

Calderon: Yes, that was a significant factor. Three of Healy’s properties were vacated around the same time. They didn’t sell the land but instead opted for long-term leases with new tenants. That sparked a broader conversation about what the corridor could or should become. The city planner at the time, John Clark, even suggested zoning updates to ensure that whatever replaced these properties aligned with the city’s best interests. Instead of immediately implementing zoning changes or a moratorium, the mayor decided to form this committee to take a more comprehensive approach.

Beaconites: What has happened with the Healy properties since then?

Calderon: The west-side property that was vacated has been turned into a Buddhist temple, with only cosmetic changes to the building. On the east side, one of the properties is now a Carvana dealership. Carvana’s approval required some parking modifications since the previous Healy dealership had encroached on the public right-of-way. Another Healy property further north is still in planning board review, with proposals for a mix of residential and commercial spaces—including a Dunkin’ Donuts. 

Beaconites: That Dunkin’ Donuts proposal has been controversial, right?

Calderon: Yes. Some council members and planning board officials are concerned about adding another drive-thru business, which would contribute to a more car-dominated corridor. The issue is that current zoning doesn’t explicitly prohibit drive-throughs on Fishkill Avenue, unlike on Main Street. The city previously drafted a zoning update to prevent scenarios like this, but it was never enacted. At this point, the city would need to pass new legislation or impose a moratorium to block the project. [Such a moratorium on drive-thru businesses is currently in process, but still faces a public hearing and council vote before taking effect.]

Beaconites: Let’s talk about bike and pedestrian access. The mayor seems to see the future rail trail as the primary bike route, but some advocates are pushing for dedicated bike lanes on Fishkill Avenue. What’s your take?

Calderon: That’s been a key discussion point. The argument against bike lanes is that the rail trail provides a parallel alternative, and that space on Fishkill Avenue could be used for wider sidewalks, on-street parking, or greenery. However, bike advocates counter that rail trails aren’t maintained like streets—they aren’t plowed in the winter and lack proper lighting. A dedicated bike lane on Fishkill Avenue would ensure year-round usability and make it easier for cyclists to access businesses.

We haven’t made a final recommendation yet, but I want to ensure that all perspectives are considered. That’s why the upcoming public hearing on March 9 is important—it will be an opportunity for residents to weigh in.

Beaconites: What is the broader vision for the corridor?

Calderon: Our goal is to create a more pedestrian-friendly environment while maintaining a vibrant mix of uses. Right now, Fishkill Avenue is overwhelmingly car-centric, like much of the surrounding area in Fishkill, Wappingers, and Newburgh. We want to shift that balance. That doesn’t mean eliminating cars—it means designing a corridor where people want to walk, shop, and interact, rather than just passing through.

We’re also looking at zoning adjustments to encourage a more cohesive streetscape. On Main Street, for example, buildings are aligned to create a sense of space. Fishkill Avenue currently has a lot of undefined, underutilized areas, which we want to address over time. This isn’t about quick fixes. It’s about setting a vision for the next 10, 20, or 30 years.

Beaconites: Any final thoughts?

Calderon: I encourage people to get involved. The committee’s work is meant to serve the public, and the more voices we hear, the better the final recommendations will be. I hope we have a strong turnout at the public hearing because good planning comes from open, constructive conversations.