The high school redevelopment project was a focal point of the meeting. The newly proposed high school aims to replace the deteriorating Rivier High School with a modern facility that addresses both educational and environmental needs. The project intends to reduce impervious areas by at least two acres, a notable mitigation effort, and introduce native plantings to enhance the local ecosystem. The redevelopment plans to incorporate stormwater management systems, outdoor learning spaces, and wildlife habitat improvements, such as an osprey nest platform.

Stormwater management is a critical aspect of the project, given the current inadequate system characterized by minimal catch basins and almost entirely paved surfaces. The new design is expected to comply with state and local standards, incorporating improvements that will enhance the site’s ability to manage water runoff. Innovations such as painting asphalt with reflective emulsion material and utilizing embodied carbon content for paved areas are under consideration to mitigate the heat island effect.

Representatives emphasized the project’s intent to serve public interests and improve the site. They expressed confidence in the design, stating that the redevelopment would transform a long-neglected lot into a community asset. The project team also highlighted plans for wildlife habitat improvement, including the installation of an osprey nest platform on the northern side of the Eastern County ditch. This initiative may include a camera to provide live footage of the nesting process, drawing inspiration from similar projects in other locations. Additionally, the project will feature educational signage throughout the property, intended to inform visitors about critical resource areas and promote awareness of the local ecosystem.

The discussion also addressed public skepticism surrounding the site’s historical flooding issues. Concerns were raised about the possibility of lead contamination due to proposed dredging activities. A representative from the project team acknowledged these concerns and assured that they would monitor the excavation process, performing soil sampling to check for contamination. There was an acknowledgment of the challenges posed by lead’s heavy metal properties and the need for careful handling during excavation. Further, the project team clarified that no clearing of dunes would take place, refuting concerns about increased flood risks for local residences.

The meeting transitioned to a notice of intent for a project proposed by Clean Joe LLC, concerning the expansion of an existing parking lot on Franklin Street within a 100-foot buffer zone. The project aims to increase the impervious area by over 9,100 square feet, paving previously disturbed gravel areas to allow access to a warehouse and create additional parking spaces. Erosion control measures such as compost socks and catch basin protection will be implemented to mitigate potential impacts during construction. The stormwater management design includes directing runoff to a sediment forebay leading to a wet basin and managing runoff through a subsurface infiltration system.

The Commission also deliberated on a request for determination of applicability for the MBTA Wonderland Station Parking Garage. Craig Wood, representing Jacobs Engineering, presented details about minor work at the site as part of a broader bus network redesign. The work will occur within the FEMA 100-year floodplain but will not alter the grade or add fill, maintaining existing flood storage capacity. The plans include adding shelters and reconfiguring bus stops without increasing impervious surfaces. The Commission approved the request unanimously.

Additionally, the Commission addressed an emergency certification regarding a deteriorating sidewalk at Carry Circle, which had become a health hazard. The conservation agent explained that the sidewalk’s condition necessitated urgent action, leading to the issuance of an emergency certification. The commission members unanimously approved the emergency certification.

The final agenda item involved a continuation of a notice of intent for a water main replacement project adjacent to Linway. Additional filings were required due to habitat considerations, and the Commission agreed to continue the process, with expectations for a return in September.