The Charleswood Elementary School project on Hayden Row was a major agenda item, particularly focusing on traffic management and stormwater concerns. The applicant’s representative reported positive feedback from Time Bond on resubmitted materials, although several comments, especially regarding stormwater management and traffic analysis, remained unresolved. Chris Ras from Time Bond pointed out these issues.

A discussion unfolded around the proposed left turn island, a contentious element in the traffic plan. The applicant preferred signage flexibility over physical modifications, arguing that altering signage would be less complicated than constructing a physical barrier. Board members expressed concern over the effectiveness of signage alone, emphasizing safety and traffic flow. The dialogue revealed differing perspectives on whether signage could adequately manage traffic behavior, particularly concerning the legality of left turns during non-peak hours.

The Planning Board chose to postpone the vote on the project to allow further review of recently uploaded letters and to ensure all members had sufficient time to evaluate the conditions proposed.

In other discussions, infrastructure improvements were prominent, including considerations for bike lane installations and street lighting adjustments. A member raised a question on whether the bike lanes would span the entire project or just specific sections, highlighting a need for clarity by the next meeting. The design review board expressed concerns over the proposed 30-foot light poles, prompting a discussion to ensure compliance with local regulations.

Public inquiries during the meeting pointed to the need for a traffic study post the new school’s opening. Although it was suggested that VHB, a firm already contracted for related tasks, would oversee this study, confirmation was pending. It was also mentioned that the School Board might be responsible for post-construction monitoring, necessitating a review of the contract for clarity.

Lane width specifications were debated, focusing on whether to implement 10-foot or 11-foot lanes. The final decision on this aspect, including sidewalk dimensions, will rest with the select board and the Department of Public Works following the Planning Board’s approval of the initial traffic study.

The board also addressed deadline extensions for stormwater management permits, initially set for October 2nd but proposed to be extended to October 14th. This extension was unanimously approved.

Additionally, the board discussed ongoing matters such as the property at zero Benson Road and the New England Laborers Training Center on East Street. Both required public hearings to be continued due to incomplete memos and the need for additional review time. Similarly, a new public hearing for properties at 48 to 52 Main Street and Cedar Street was opened but had to be continued due to the applicants’ scheduling conflicts. These continuations, agreed upon unanimously, reflect the board’s procedural diligence.