The Main Street road improvement project was a focal point of the meeting, with discussions centering on the narrowing of the road and the installation of new vertical granite curbing along the edge to minimize disturbance. The project necessitates work within the buffer zone and involves the roadside shoulder, installation of a sidewalk, and temporary seating. The applicant sought a waiver for work within the local 50ft no disturb and 75 ft no build zones, sparking a debate on the environmental impact, particularly concerning critter crossings and pedestrian safety. The reclassification of Beaver Brook from a perennial to an intermittent stream was a shift, as it eliminated potential Riverfront area impacts related to the project. However, concerns were raised over mislabeled wetland flags and the need for an invasive species management plan. The public expressed interest in the extension of the sidewalk, drainage downstream, and the installation of lights at crosswalks. The project team confirmed plans to install rectangular rapid flashing beacons at crosswalks.

The commission also addressed the construction of a new sidewalk along Chestnut Street. Updated plans were presented, which included a 5-foot wide concrete sidewalk with a 6-inch granite curb and steel guard rails in specific portions. The project’s implications on wetland resource areas were discussed, with mitigation measures and alternative approaches, such as adjusting the curb line closer to the road, being considered to minimize impact. The commission approved the continuation of the hearing to the next meeting on August 20th, signaling ongoing scrutiny of the project’s environmental footprint.

Another public hearing was devoted to the town’s drainage improvements on Wood Street, a project of such complexity that a stormwater engineer from Weston and Sampson was contacted for a review. The nature of the project and its potential impact on wetland resource areas were discussed, with the commission once again opting to continue the hearing to the next meeting to allow for further review and discussion.

A request for determination of applicability for Riverside Services on South Street was also on the agenda. The commission reviewed the landscape plan, noting adjustments to trees and the addition of operation and maintenance statements to the plans. A negative determination with conditions was voted upon.

The notice of intent for a commercial building at East Main Street was another agenda item, with the commission discussing modifications made to the sedimentation and erosion control plan. A special condition was added for an engineer to inspect subsoils once the basin is at final grade upon site stabilization. The motion to close and issue an order with standard conditions was carried.

In addition to these discussions, the commission touched upon a proposed sidewalk at the Charleswood school and concluded the meeting with a reminder of an upcoming site visit.