Catskills luxury resort plans halted over environmental concerns in Cairo
Plans for a large luxury resort in Cairo, a small Catskills town, have been put on hold. A judge ruled that the local planning board failed to properly assess environmental concerns, including water supply risks. The decision comes after residents raised objections about the project’s impact.
The site, Blackhead Mountain Lodge & Country Club, closed in 2022 before being sold to developer RCBG. Initially, the company proposed a 50-room hotel, which residents welcomed. Later, the plans expanded to a 264-bedroom luxury condo-hotel resort, sparking opposition.
Residents argued that the environmental review was insufficient, particularly regarding water usage. A judge agreed, halting the project until further assessment is completed. Many locals, including Ray Leonardo, still believe the resort could boost the struggling economy. The Catskills has seen many resorts close over the years, leaving abandoned properties behind. While some residents hope for new business, others remain concerned about the resort’s potential strain on local resources. The developer and their legal team have not responded to requests for comment.
The project’s pause gives Cairo officials time to re-examine its environmental impact. Residents will wait to see if revised plans address their concerns. For now, the future of the luxury resort remains uncertain.
