0:11The meeting’s most discussion centered on a Notice of Intent submitted by the Mullen Highway Development Company LLC for offsite roadway improvements at Suffolk Downs. The proposal, represented by civil engineer Rick Latini, aimed to improve traffic flow and safety by modifying Route 1A. Plans included widening lanes, adding a concrete median, and creating a pedestrian crossing. Erosion control measures such as compost filter tubes and silt sacks were proposed to minimize environmental impacts, particularly in relation to sediment entering the river. A commissioner raised concerns about the effectiveness of these sediment controls, especially near a bridge area on the Revere side. Latini assured the commission that robust measures would be implemented to maintain sediment control along the embankment. The commission unanimously approved the Notice of Intent, recognizing the project’s minimal impact on resource areas and its potential to enhance the area.

Another agenda item was the Notice of Intent for a proposed 77,000 square-foot technology warehouse on Park Boulevard by R Mass Own LLC. Scott Morrison from BHB introduced the project, which includes significant stormwater management upgrades such as deep sump catch basins and a subsurface sand filter to treat water before discharging it into Chelsea Creek. The project would replace a degraded warehouse, with some wetland impacts expected. Commissioners supported the stormwater management improvements, emphasizing the need for pre-treatment in an area historically affected by road treatment and rock salt usage. Morrison clarified that the warehouse is being constructed speculatively, with no end user identified yet. Concerns about long-term maintenance and potential impacts on drainage systems were discussed, with assurances given that the stormwater system would accommodate future uses. The commission appeared favorable to the project, acknowledging its potential to enhance environmental protections.

24:56Additionally, the commission addressed a Request for Determination of Applicability concerning the MBTA’s vegetation management plan along the commuter rail right-of-way. Matt Donovan from Benish explained the necessity of submitting this request every five years, as mandated by regulations. The plan aims to ensure safe railroad operations while protecting sensitive areas. Donovan outlined the chemical applications used, which occur twice annually. Concerns were raised about the chemicals’ impact on wildlife and water quality, with a call for alternative methods. Donovan explained that the selection of herbicides is governed by extensive research and regulatory processes. The commission moved forward with a negative determination of applicability, acknowledging the need to protect sensitive areas while discussing the chemical management plan’s efficacy and regulatory oversight.

40:55In another discussion, the commission reviewed the Inon Street Frederick’s Park project, a collaborative effort between Boston and Revere funded by a municipal vulnerability preparedness grant. Environmental scientist Taylor Donovan outlined the project and requested confirmation of resource area boundaries. The proposal includes various wetland resources, with plans to mitigate temporary impacts through erosion controls and restoration. Concerns about the size of boring equipment and its proximity to sensitive areas were addressed, with assurances given about minimizing disturbance. The commission agreed to continue discussions at the next meeting after a scheduled site walk.

The meeting also revisited a previous project at 6 and Beverly Street, which had faced local opposition due to flooding issues. The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) had issued a superseding order, raising the question of whether the Revere Conservation Commission should retain oversight. A commissioner proposed that the DEP handle the project due to their greater resources, a suggestion supported by others. The commission unanimously voted to allow the DEP to manage it.