{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Transistor","provider_url":"https://transistor.fm","author_name":"Radio Chatskill","title":"Highland Reviews Environmental Report for $40M Camp FIMFO Project ","html":"","width":"100%","height":180,"duration":887,"description":"In the Town of Highland, a years-long debate over the proposed Camp Fimfo resort-style campground is approaching a critical juncture. The local planning board is now reviewing a Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) that could determine the future of the $40 million redevelopment project.River Reporter journalist Liam Mayo, who has followed the project since its inception, joined Radio Catskill to break down the latest developments and what’s at stake for the local community.From Rustic to ResortThe Camp Fimfo proposal would dramatically transform the existing Kittatinny Campground in Barryville—historically a traditional tenting site on the Delaware River—into a modern “glamping” destination under national developer Northgate Resorts.“They’re proposing to invest over $40 million into structural upgrades and rebranding the campground under their Camp Fimfo chain,” Mayo explained. “That includes updating sewer systems but also changing the fundamental character of the site—from rustic camping to high-end cabins and stationary RVs.”That shift has raised concerns among residents who fear the scale and style of the project could overwhelm the quiet rural character of Highland.Concerns Over Safety, Services, and TaxesAs part of the environmental review process, developers submitted a nearly 400-page FEIS responding to a wide range of concerns from community members, government agencies, and environmental advocates. The planning board is now reviewing the document in sections during a series of public workshop meetings.At the heart of community opposition are concerns about environmental risks, emergency preparedness, and local infrastructure. “People are worried that the increased number of visitors will strain local emergency services,” said Mayo. In response, the project team has offered a $25,000 annual payment to support local EMS operations and agreed not to pursue a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreement, which had previously stirred...","thumbnail_url":"https://img.transistorcdn.com/q7XXsnSXT_u4mZLCn3chUorwDmUD_kWiB272D6emB18/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:400/h:400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS80N2Uy/OGY5MWUwZThkYTEw/NDVkZGM2ZGZkZDIw/ZjliOS5wbmc.webp","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300}