Open Space. Natural Resources, and Trails Committee Meeting

The committee focused on two major referrals and several policy-related follow-ups. For the Rocky Hill multi-phase residential project in the MBTA-zoned area near the Elm Street / Clarks Road / Route 110 intersection (approximately 385 units), members raised significant concerns about the absence of an adequate open space and trail plan, unusable “trails” shown as mowed paths on steep grades, pedestrian/bicycle access at the Elm Street exit (including a proposal to widen sidewalks from 5 to 8 feet and consideration of a single high-quality crossing such as a HAWK signal), and stormwater runoff upgradient of Lake Attitash. The Committee determined it did not have sufficient materials to complete a review, requested the applicant provide a usable open-space/trail plan, and asked the Planning Board and Conservation Commission to await the Committee’s full review; the Chair will draft a memo stating these points and outlining preliminary questions and concerns.

On the 27 Kimball Road Chapter 40B application, the Committee discussed ANRAD-submitted resource delineations showing an isolated vegetated wetland, an intermittent stream, and bordering vegetated wetland and noted that the proposed development would fill nearly the entire site. Members flagged the lack of preserved open space, potential wetland filling, downstream stormwater impacts toward Lake Attitash, and absence of safe pedestrian or bicycle connections to nearby recreational resources; the Committee agreed to prepare a memo to the Zoning Board of Appeals documenting these prioritization-mapping findings and concerns. Other business included a Community Preservation Committee update and timeline, circulation of a draft Invasive Plant Management Plan (adapted from Mass Audubon material) to be discussed at the next meeting and then forwarded to the Conservation Commission for review, and follow-up on Bartlett Farm mowing practices (Conservation staff will retrieve the original mowing-plan documentation and coordinate with DPW). The Committee also decided to take down its legacy Facebook page to align with the City’s consolidated social media strategy. Public comment time produced no general comments; a guest representing regional trail interests urged wider sidewalks and stronger trail connections during the Rocky Hill discussion.